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Episode 281: Arkansas Community Foundation: Connecting Generous People with Causes in Northwest Arkansas

About the Show:

“We want to build the kinds of communities where our kids will want to raise their kids.”

  • Jody Dilday

About the Guest:

Jody Dilday is a seasoned professional in philanthropy and non-profit management with a notable background in social work. She has served as the Executive Director for the Single Parent Scholarship Fund of Northwest Arkansas and now fulfills the role of philanthropic advisor at the Arkansas Community Foundation. Jody’s expertise lies in connecting generous individuals and organizations with causes that enhance community life. Her work involves matchmaking donors with impactful opportunities and advising on strategic giving for sustainable community development.

Episode Summary:

In this episode of I am Northwest Arkansas, we dive deep into the heart of community giving with the philanthropic expert, Jody Dilday, from the Arkansas Community Foundation. Jody shares fascinating insights into the world of charitable giving, offering valuable advice on how individuals can contribute to their communities in meaningful ways. Whether discussing her journey into philanthropy or exploring the various avenues for making a difference, this episode is brimming with inspiration and actionable information for prospective donors.

Jody demystifies the process of creating a donor-advised fund, highlighting that one need not be affluent to begin a journey into philanthropy. She showcases how the Arkansas Community Foundation partners with donors to channel their generosity according to personal values and strategic objectives, ensuring that one’s resources have a lasting impact. The episode also casts light on the tax benefits associated with structured giving, reinforcing the idea that an individual’s contribution can perpetuate into future generations.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Arkansas Community Foundation is a matchmaker between generous people and impactful community causes, facilitating philanthropic efforts across the state.
  • One can start an endowment with the foundation for as low as $10,000, enabling long-term, sustainable community support.
  • Donor-advised funds allow individuals to retain advisory control over their donations, including the ability to support out-of-state organizations.
  • The Community Foundation’s service offerings are diverse and beneficial for individuals planning estate donations and those seeking immediate philanthropic engagement.
  • Philanthropy doesn’t have to be reactionary; Jody recommends planning your giving budget carefully to maximize both the impact and personal satisfaction from donations.

All this and more on this episode of the I Am Northwest Arkansas podcast.

Important Links and Mentions on the Show:

Email Jody Dilday, ACF

Website Arkansas Community Foundation (ACF)

Arkansas Community Foundation on Instagram

Arkansas Community Foundation / Jody Dilday on Facebook

Tune in to KUAF 91.3 FM to listen to the I Am Northwest Arkansas podcast on Ozarks at Large every Tuesday at 12 Noon and 7 PM CST. And, check us out on their podcast as well. 

This episode is sponsored by:

Signature Bank of Arkansas “Community Banking at its Best!”

Northwest Arkansas Council – “Life Works Here!”

ONBoardNWA.com HyperLocal Jobs in NWA

Note: some of the resources mentioned may be affiliate links. This means we get paid a commission (at no extra cost to you) if you use that link to make a purchase.

Connect more with I am Northwest Arkansas:

Tune in to the full episode for a comprehensive understanding of the Arkansas Community Foundation’s work and discover how you can contribute toward creating a lasting legacy in the community through strategic giving. 

Thank you for listening to this episode of the I am Northwest Arkansas podcast. We showcase businesses, culture, entrepreneurship, and everyday people’s lives, making Northwest Arkansas what it is today.

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