The Klau Family Fund: Giving for Impact

Richard (Rick) and Molly Klau were always committed to philanthropy. But in their busy working years, their charitable contributions were passive, such as giving towards college scholarships and responding to requests.

“We decided that retirement would be the time to deepen our philanthropic impact,” Rick said. “It would give greater purpose to our post-work lives.”

Relatively new to the Denver area, they visited local community foundations for guidance. “To give well, you need a partner, and the best partner we found out there was Community First Foundation.”

Rick and Molly asked the Foundation to educate them about the social issues confronting Denver communities. The Foundation introduced them to local nonprofits and took them on site visits. “The Foundation helped us become effective philanthropists,” says Rick. “It’s quite a departure from working with a commercial brokerage. This is a true community-focused organization. It’s personal, face-to-face.”

Already a successful businessman, Rick settled on opening a donor-advised fund for charitable giving and used liquidated stock to fund it.  Rick found the donor-advised fund concept simple and user friendly.

“The Foundation keeps us engaged and motivated in the grantmaking process,” said Rick. “Homelessness, hunger and education at all levels have really resonated with us. You can’t live in Denver and ignore these issues and opportunities to make an impact.”