What a way to close out 2018! It was an auspicious weekend, to be sure, and I continue to marvel and be grateful for our unparalleled Team. On Saturday, December 29, catalyzed by The Columbus Foundation’s Big Explore Day, we hosted an earth-shattering 20,740 guests in our building between the hours of 9:30 am – 7:00 pm. This staggering and unprecedented performance was not just evidenced by the ridiculously large number of individuals that we greeted and supported throughout our busiest day in the history of COSI (closest second was a now paltry 12, 000…) but it was the context and spirit of Saturday’s attendance that guarantee its place etched on the annals of history.

In the spirit of celebration, The Columbus Foundation’s philanthropy awards honor incredible legacies of generosity and innovation in our community. These awards lift up the generosity of donors, recognize the great work of a high-performing nonprofit organization, and shine a spotlight on a Columbus Foundation fund making a difference a half a world away.

Watch Dr. Frederic Bertley's inherent leadership and captivating spirit in action as he explains his passion for science, education equity, and community building.

Each year, The Columbus Foundation recognizes 5 Nonprofits to Watch that exemplify strong leadership and a deep commitment to expanding opportunity for people throughout our region. Congratulations to the 5 Nonprofits to Watch in 2026: Dress for Success Columbus, Festa, Home for Families, Opera Columbus, and YWCA Columbus.

Donor Advised Funds (DAFs) are enormously popular giving vehicles—known for their ease of use and flexibility in administration. DAFs allow individuals to take an active role in their philanthropic efforts, and are the best option for people who value freedom, choice, and a hands-on approach to giving. Plus they are ideal for those wanting to give to multiple organizations and programs.

Through bunching, a donor can condense two or more years’ worth of charitable giving into a single tax year to gain the maximum tax benefit.

Charitable strategies for 2025 will look different due to recent tax law changes that impact charitable giving. In the spirit of amplifying community impact, here are three tax-advantaged giving strategies to consider with your clients before year-end.