Aligning Your Finances With Your Values

by | Sep 14, 2025 | Finance

Smart Giving: Financial Literacy Through the Lens of Philanthropy and Service

Aligning Your Finances With Your Values

Why This Matters

September invites reflection.
As the seasons shift and the year begins its final quarter, many of us turn our thoughts toward impact—how we show up for others, and how we build lasting legacies.

It’s also the perfect time to explore the connection between financial literacy and philanthropy.

Giving isn’t just a feel-good gesture—it’s a strategic financial action that can shape communities, build generational values, and even create long-term tax advantages. Yet too many people give emotionally but not intentionally, missing the chance to align their generosity with their budget and financial goals.

This month, we’re exploring how to give smarter, serve deeper, and budget for the causes that matter most to you—without sacrificing your own stability or peace.

DMV-Area Resources for Giving Back and Growing Wealth

  • Catalogue for Philanthropy (DC) – Connects donors to vetted nonprofits doing impactful work in the region.

  • United Way of the National Capital Area – Offers payroll giving, volunteer opportunities, and workplace giving campaigns.

  • Community Foundation for Northern Virginia and Greater Washington – Assists individuals and families in establishing donor-advised funds and legacy plans.

  • HandsOn DC & Volunteer Fairfax – Great for those looking to give time rather than money through community service projects and skill-based volunteering.

  • IRS Charitable Search Tool – Ensure any nonprofit you support is tax-exempt and compliant.

Real-Life Story: Marcus Builds a Giving Plan

Marcus, a 45-year-old educator and father of two in Prince George’s County, always believed in giving back.
But as inflation rose and college tuition loomed, he started to feel financially stretched. He was donating $200/month to multiple causes but had no plan—and often gave out of guilt.

With the help of a financial coach, Marcus reviewed his values, tightened his household budget, and set up a donor-advised fund. Now, he gives the same $200/month—but with intention, tax planning, and a long-term view. He even involved his kids in choosing causes.

“Giving should bring peace, not pressure,” Marcus says. “Now it’s part of our family culture—not just a reaction to need.”

Smart Giving: How to Build a Generous and Sustainable Plan

1. Start With Your Values

  • What causes matter most to you—education, health equity, racial justice, arts, faith?

  • Make a list and prioritize. Giving should align with your heart and your financial life.

2. Budget for Generosity

  • Create a “giving” category in your monthly or quarterly budget.

  • Whether it’s $20 or $200, intentional giving prevents guilt-based overspending.

3. Know Your Tax Benefits

  • Contributions to qualified 501(c)(3) nonprofits may be tax-deductible if you itemize deductions.

  • Keep detailed donation receipts and consider bunching donations for tax efficiency.

4. Consider a Donor-Advised Fund (DAF)

  • DAFs let you donate now, get the deduction, and distribute funds over time.

  • Many community foundations and financial institutions offer simple DAF accounts.

5. Give Time, Talent, or Treasure

  • Can’t give money right now? Offer your time or skills to a local nonprofit.

  • Teaching financial literacy, serving meals, or helping with résumés are all valuable gifts.

6. Involve Your Family

  • Make giving a shared family value. Let kids pick causes or match their donations.

  • It’s a powerful way to teach financial stewardship and empathy.

What You Can Do This Month

✅ Choose one cause or nonprofit that truly aligns with your values
✅ Set up a monthly giving amount—even $10 counts when it’s consistent
✅ Research donor-advised funds or ask your financial advisor about options
✅ Volunteer once this month for a cause you care about
✅ Talk to your children or loved ones about why and how you give

Closing Thoughts

Giving is not just about charity it’s about strategy, impact, and legacy.

When you align your finances with your values, generosity becomes a joyful part of your financial plan—not a burden.
This September, take a moment to reflect:

What does smart giving look like in your life?
How can you create peace through purpose?

Even small steps can lead to deep impact—on your community, your family, and your heart.

Dr. Bertrand Fote, MD, MBA, CF2
Certified Financial Fiduciary | Financial Educator & Advocate for Financial Literacy

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