Ways To Give

ACJF provides a robust and flexible menu of giving options, tailored to attorneys’ needs, timing, and strategic goals. The Foundation is a 501(c)3, and thus all gifts are tax deductible. ACJF provides all donors with verification for their gifts.  Contributions may be made by check, credit card, or the transfer of assets. Caroline Clark is available to discuss the work of ACJF, its needs, and the following giving options with you.

1. Direct contributions / Lawyers Helping People Campaign. The Foundation welcomes gifts from lawyers, law firms, and friends. These funds represent the legal community’s commitment to assisting Alabama’s most vulnerable children and families.
   1. Gifts may be undesignated (for ACJF’s general grantmaking endowment).
   2. You may also structure multi-year pledges.
2. Designated Gifts. Donors may make gifts designated toward particular funding priorities or grantmaking areas (e.g., women’s health, education, etc.).
3. Memorials & Honorariums. The Foundation is available to assist you in honoring or remembering a loved one or colleague. ACJF provides acknowledgement of the gift to the appropriate individual(s), which includes a description of ACJF and the legal community’s role in helping underserved Alabamians.
4. Special Events. Sponsor one of ACJF’s signature events (e.g. the “Roast & Toast” gala, “FABulous Beach Party”) or contribute to special campaigns (e.g. disaster relief, Success by 6 Christmas party, etc.) to stand alongside your peers in amplifying both philanthropy and the profession’s visibility. Sponsorships help ACJF raise funds for its operation and grant making.
5. Giving Societies. Members of these two societies are recognized for their strong commitment to ACJF and investing in the betterment of Alabama and its future.
   1. The Pioneers of Justice Society was created to recognizes Alabama attorneys who have revolutionized the legal system and the well-being of vulnerable citizens. Membership is open to attorneys and others who have dedicated their own lives to the pursuit of justice and who want to further ACJF’s work toward fulfilling its mission of helping those in need. Pioneers of Justice Charter Members commit to giving $10,000 to ACJF over a 3-5 year period. View Members.
   2. The Advocates of Justice Society recognizes young attorneys (40 and under) and ACJF friends who support the values and work of the Foundation. Its purpose is to support ACJF’s grantmaking and operational expenses. Membership is open to attorneys/others who commit to contributing $1500 over a 3-5 year period. Charitable gifts to this Society are considered as initial gifts to membership in the Pioneers to Justice Society. View Members.
6. Donor Advised Funds (DAFs) within ACJF. DAFs allow an individual or entity (such as a law firm) to create a named fund within ACJF and to make recommendations to the Foundation concerning the disbursement of those funds to charitable causes. DAFs enable donors to receive a tax deduction when they need it and to disburse the funds over time. Funds are disbursed by the Foundation, and they offer donors the ability to make charitable gifts anonymously or in the name of the donors/fund. DAFs blend donor flexibility with the Foundation’s grantmaking expertise and administrative convenience.
7. Case-Specific Projects and Cy Pres Awards. At the conclusion of a major case, law firms or clients can channel funds through ACJF toward aligned philanthropic goals — whether for a specific and case-related purpose, its victims, or its impacted geographic area. ACJF is available to manage or direct the intended grant making as needed. Moreover, ACJF is uniquely suited to receive and deploy cy pres awards statewide, thanks to its reputation, experience, and connections with the courts, communities, and nonprofits across the state.
8. Planned Giving / Legacy Gifts.  Incorporate ACJF into your estate planning — via bequests, gifts of securities, real property, charitable trusts, life insurance, or retirement assets. These gifts may benefit ACJF immediately (e.g., stocks, bonds, real estate, personal property) or in the future (e.g. bequests, charitable lead or remainder trusts, life insurance, or retirement funds). This array of opportunities lets you align your charitable objectives with your personal financial and estate strategies.