Celebrating 30 Years of CAF America

Since 1992, CAF America has been helping people in need throughout the world, inspiring generations of donors across the corporate and private space, to be bolder and more innovative in their grant making, by making grants directly to charities around the world.

2023

NO TITLE – The United States Ends the COVID Health Emergency

As the United States declares an end to the COVID health emergency, CAF America stands as a beacon of resilience, having facilitated over $74 million in impactful grants dedicated to alleviating the hardships caused by the pandemic.

One Year Later: The Russian Invasion of Ukraine

One Year Later: The Russian Invasion of Ukraine

CAF America marks the 1-year anniversary of the Russian invasion of Ukraine with over $37 million granted to charities supporting Ukrainians in need. Our donors have funded 998 grants to 78 charities in 14 countries. This includes over $3.75 million in grants to charities incorporated in Ukraine itself. Over the past year Poland emerged as a hub for humanitarian action with over $10 million granted to 22 organizations, along with bordering countries such Bulgaria, Czechia, Austria, Romania, and Hungary receiving a total of $2,042,890 in the past year for supporting response and humanitarian efforts. Learn more here: https://www.cafamerica.org/one-year-after-the-invasion-of-ukraine/

CAF America Mobilizes Support After the Earthquakes in Türkiye and Syria

CAF America Mobilizes Support After the Earthquakes in Türkiye and Syria

A powerful 7.8 earthquake rattles Türkiye and Syria, leaving devastation in its wake. In response, CAF America swiftly mobilizes, gathering vital resources to aid those affected by this disaster. We’ve facilitated grants to help rebuild the lives of affected citizens. Discover how you can make a difference today by visiting this link: https://www.cafamerica.org/turkiye-syria-response/

Robynn Benner Celebrates 10 Years of Service

CAF America celebrates our Sr. Director of Program Services Robynn Benner’s 10 years of service. Robynn joined the CAF America family in 2013 as a Grants Officer and transitioned to our CAF Canada operations full time in 2019. Her leadership and dedication have driven the organization’s growth, facilitating charitable support for causes via project work. She now oversees our CAF Canada Project Team, guiding Canadian philanthropists in global project funding and Project Agreement creation. Learn more about Robynn here: https://www.cafamerica.org/staff/robynn-benner/

2022

Celebrating Nicole Varner’s 10 Years of Service

CAF America celebrates Vice President of Technology & Cybersecurity Nicole Varner’s 10 years of service. After joining CAF in 2012, Nicole rose through the ranks of due diligence and client management positions to take on CAF America’s technology development, driving the enhancement and implementation of new systems and technology-based services. Her strategic leadership has allowed CAF America to strengthen our programming and become an industry leader in the areas of technology and cybersecurity. Learn more about Nicole here: https://www.cafamerica.org/staff/nicole-varner/

NO TITLE – Philanthropy Committee Established

The Board of Directors establishes the CAF America Philanthropy Committee.

Warsaw Together Gathering

Warsaw Together Gathering

CAF America hosts a signature Together Gathering in Warsaw, Poland, gathering charity representatives from Poland and Ukraine to discuss how US donors can best help Ukrainians in need.

International Grantmaking Symposium

International Grantmaking Symposium

CAF America held our seventh International Grantmaking Symposium (IGS) in a virtual setting, focused on the topic of grantmaking for disaster response and recovery. As we navigate an era marked by unprecedented challenges, the symposium stands as a beacon of innovation and collaboration. Over 40 of seasoned philanthropists and visionary leaders gather in this virtual space to share insights, strategies, and best practices.

2022 All Team Days

2022 All Team Days

CAF America’s largest yet All-Team Days in Alexandria, VA, with an impressive attendance of over 100 team members attending from around the world.

Char Mollison Becomes Board Chair

In early 2022 CAFA welcomed Char Mollison as our new Board Chair. Char boasts an impressive career spanning over 35 years, distinguished by her adept management and advisory roles within nonprofit organizations. With a remarkable 17-year tenure at the Council on Foundations and Independent Sector, she has been an influential figure in the realm of grantmaking and nonprofit collaboration.

Char’s extensive expertise extends to academia, as she has been a dedicated instructor of graduate courses in nonprofit management since 1997. As a Senior Fellow at George Mason University’s Center on Nonprofits, Philanthropy, and Social Enterprise, she continues to shape the sector’s future through her guidance and teachings. Char’s impact also resonates globally, as she’s lent her insights to NGOs, government officials, and nonprofit leaders across diverse regions. From championing women’s rights at WEAL to her board service at Wise Giving Alliance and Partners of Tanzania’s Relief and Development, Char Mollison’s contributions have left an indelible mark on the nonprofit landscape. Read more about Char here: https://www.cafamerica.org/staff/char-mollison/

Rob Buchanan Retires as Chair

Rob Buchanan retires as Chairman of the CAF America Board of Directors. Now a valued Allied Professional, Rob brought a wealth of experience and leadership skills to CAFA. He previously presided over the El-Hibri Charitable Foundation and led initiatives in disaster response and cross-border grantmaking. With a notable background including roles at the Council on Foundations, Oxfam America, and EarthAction, Rob is a dedicated advocate for philanthropic and international efforts. Learn more about Rob and his outstanding accomplishments here https://www.cafamerica.org/staff/rob-buchanan/.

NO TITLE – CAF America Reaches $650 million in Contributions in One Fiscal Year

On April 28, 2023, CAF America proudly marks a historic milestone by surpassing the remarkable threshold of $650 million in contributions—a testament to our unwavering commitment to positive global impact. This achievement comes merely 12 months after reaching the $600 million mark, showcasing our continued dedication to fostering meaningful change on an even greater scale.

CAF America Celebrates our 30th Anniversary

CAF America celebrates its 30th anniversary marking the anniversary of three decades of unwavering commitment to donors and the global charitable causes they champion.

NO TITLE – 600 million

CAF America celebrates crossing the $600 million contributions threshold for the first time in its history.

NO TITLE – $550 million

CAF America proudly celebrates crossing the $550 million contributions threshold for the first time in its history.

NO TITLE – $500m

CAF America commemorates a historic achievement—the surpassing of a monumental milestone: $500 million in contributions, a landmark moment in our journey of impact and philanthropy.

CAF America and our Partners Respond to the Humanitarian Crisis in Ukraine

In February 2022, a grave humanitarian crisis unfolded as Russia’s invasion of Ukraine forced countless Ukrainians to flee their homes, seeking refuge across Eastern Europe. In the face of this dire situation, CAF America took swift action, curating specialized resources to aid compassionate donors in providing crucial support to those affected.

Explore our dedicated initiative and join us in making a difference for the resilient Ukrainian people.

2021

Hope for Haiti Partnership

Hope for Haiti Partnership

In August, CAF America partnered with Hope for Haiti to raise funds to provide medical and humanitarian relief following a massive earthquake.

2021

CAF America quickly exceeds contribution thresholds of $300 million on January 14, $350 million a month later, and $400 million on March 18.

2020

Nonprofit Leadership Recognition

Our President and CEO, Ted Hart, has been recognized as one of Virginia’s 18 most powerful #nonprofit leaders by Virginia Business Virginia 500—The 2020 Power List. Watch the video above to learn more about Ted and his significant contribution to CAF America!

Lebanese Red Cross Partnership

In August 2020, CAF America partnered with the Lebanese Red Cross to raise money to provide humanitarian relief following a devastating explosion impacting over 300,000 people.

COVID-19 Reports

In May, CAF America releases the first in a series of reports entitled “Charities Facing COVID-19 Worldwide.”

Contributions in Succession

Contributions in Succession

CAF America reaches a number of contribution milestones in quick succession. On April 3, CAF America crosses the $150 million contributions threshold for the first time in its history, and just five days later, on April 8, it crosses the $200 million contributions threshold. Twenty-two days later, on April 30, the $250 million contribution threshold is crossed.

Donor Response Grants

Donor Response Grants

In March 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic sweeps across the world. CAF America’s donors respond with remarkable generosity, funding more than $60 million in response grants to charities around the world.

Australian Bushfire Relief

Australian Bushfire Relief

CAF America creates the Australian Bushfire Relief Fund to accept donations in support of organizations responding to the early 2020 wildfire crisis across Australia’s Eastern Coastal Areas. Donors contribute more than $3 million to relief efforts. This paves the way for its work responding to the COVID-19 pandemic only months later.

2019

Visiting South Africa

Visiting South Africa

In November, Ted Hart visits CAF South Africa in Johannesburg, and also has a private meeting with South African writer and activist icon Elinor Sisulu, wife of Max Sisulu.

Growth Contributions

Growth Contributions

In March, CAF America celebrates crossing the $100 million contributions threshold for the first time in its history.

2018

GuideStar Platinum Seal of Transparency

In July, CAF America achieves the Platinum Seal of Transparency with GuideStar. This is the Highest Level of Recognition offered by guidestar.org, a compendium of information about nonprofits.

CAF America Publishes Its First Book

In June, CAF America publishes its first book “Cross-Border Giving: A Legal and Practical Guide”. The book is intended for international philanthropy professionals, but is relevant to any person or organization working across borders.

A Logo Refresh

In May, CAF International adjusts its branding to include new logos with a cleaner and more modern look.

2017

International Diaspora Giving Summit

In November, Board Chairman Rob Buchanan and CEO Ted Hart welcomes CAF Southern Africa CEO Gill Bates to CAF America HQ in Alexandria, and hosts the International Diaspora Giving Summit.

Philanthropy in China

Philanthropy in China

In August, CAF America signs an agreement in Shenzhen China committing CAF America and the China Global Philanthropy Institute to help develop philanthropy in China and to promote donor-advised funds throughout mainland China.

“Together Gathering” Event

“Together Gathering” Event

In August, CAF America hosts its first “Together Gathering,” bringing together our eligible charities in Hong Kong to learn more about what it means to be included in our global charity database.

The 3rd International Grantmaking Symposium

The 3rd International Grantmaking Symposium

In June, CAF America hosts its 3rd International Grantmaking Symposium in partnership with Tufts College of Civic Life, Tufts University.

Dedication in Bulgaria

Dedication in Bulgaria

In April, Ted Hart participates in the dedication of a clock tower in Voditsa, Bulgaria, which was paid for by a grant from the Helen K. Rinker Ashley Fund, a Legacy DAF stewarded by CAF America.

Awards Gala

Awards Gala

In January, for the second annual “Celebration of International Philanthropy” event, CAF America adds an awards gala, which recognizes a handful of industry leaders on their international philanthropic achievements. The first awardees are U.S. Trust and Medtronic.

2016

The First International Grantmaking Symposium (IGS)

The First International Grantmaking Symposium (IGS)

In June, CAF America hosts its first International Grantmaking Symposium in Washington DC in partnership with the Johns Hopkins University School of Advanced International Studies. The IGS is a forum for discussion about trends in domestic and cross-border philanthropy, and best practices and tools to ensure compliance with international and domestic laws.

Celebrating International Philanthropy

Celebrating International Philanthropy

In January, CAF America hosts its first Annual “Celebration of International Philanthropy” event at Walt Disney World’s Epcot Center at the Great Hall of China. The event is a way to celebrate the inspirational and important work that donors and charity partners are doing to make the world a better place.

Sustainable Development Goals

Sustainable Development Goals

The UN Sustainable Development Goals are launched on January 1, setting ambitious targets for global development across 17 issue areas. CAF America commits to recording the alignment of our grantees and grants with this SDG framework.

2014

Giving Back to the Community

CAF America establishes an employee benefit which encourages its employees to volunteer their time to local charities, and provides paid leave for them to engage in projects that benefit the community. CAF America honors the September 11 National Day of Service and Remembrance by painting and improving the Dunbar Alexandria Olympic Boys and Girls Club.

The Helen Rinker Ashley Fund

On March 28, Ted Hart makes his first visit to Voditsa, Bulgaria to review projects funded by CAF America’s Helen Rinker Ashley Fund, a donor-advised fund created in the name of the daughter of two Bulgarian immigrants to the U.S. who bequeathed a portion of her estate to help improve the lives of people in her parents’ homeland.

Rob Buchanan Becomes President

On March 7, Rob Buchanan becomes President of CAF America (the position’s title was later changed to “Chairman” in 2017, and the CEO became “President and CEO”).

CAF Canada Establishment

On February 13, 2014, CAF Canada is officially established, providing the same tax-advantaged, regulatory-compliant domestic and international program services that CAF America is recognized for to Canadian businesses and individuals. The first ever meeting of the CAF Canada Board of Directors is held in Toronto CA.

2013

Partnering with Singapore

In June, CAF America sets its sights on the international scene through the launch of its first Asia Pacific Advisory partnership in Singapore.

2013

In March, CAF America sponsors its first large national conference, the Grant Managers Network (GMN) conference, in St. Petersburg FL.

2012

July 2012

In July, two U.S. citizens come to CAF America seeking to make a tax-deductible donation of international property. The transaction becomes known as “The Acapulco Donation.” CAF America finds a solution to this complex transaction, with mainstream media coverage establishing CAF America as recognized leader in global philanthropy.

Ted Hart Becomes CEO

In March, Ted Hart is hired as CEO. Under his leadership, CAF America begins to implement its organizational paradigm for success, the “Three Rs” of regulatory compliance, reputation protection, and risk mitigation.

2006

Pension Protection Act

Pension Protection Act

Pension Protection Act passes, which includes the first statutory definition of a Donor-Advised Fund.

2002

Susan Saxon-Harold’s Leadership

Susan-Saxon Harold is hired as President and CEO, serving from 2002–2011. It is under Susan’s leadership that CAF America becomes known for its knowledge of international regulations surrounding charitable giving, including investment in a grantmaking database and global vetting services.

2001

USA Patriot Act

The USA PATRIOT Act, passed on October 26, 2001, creates a significant regulatory responsibility on international financial transactions.

Augmented Regulatory Environment

Augmented Regulatory Environment

In the aftermath of the September 11 terrorist attacks, the regulations surrounding international charitable donations become broader, and scrutiny of these transactions become much more intense. For CAF America, the tightening noose of regulatory compliance is a chance to demonstrate the organization’s expertise, and the burden is turned into an opportunity to expand and deepen its knowledge of the augmented regulatory environment.

1999

1999

CAF America’s first subsidiary, Southampton Row Trust Limited (trading as the CAF American Donor Fund) is established as a dual US-UK registered charity to serve philanthropists with dual tax liabilities.

1997

Open for Business

CAF America registers with the Commonwealth of Virginia’s State Corporation Commission as a non-profit corporation doing business in Virginia.

1994

A Name Change

CAF renews its Delaware registration, officially changing its name to “Charities Aid Foundation America”.

1993

IRS Determination

In April, CAF America is issued an IRS determination letter, recognizing the organization as a tax-exempt public charity.

1992

Delaware Incorporation

Delaware Incorporation

In April, the Charities Aid Foundation is officially incorporated in the State of Delaware as a non-profit limited liability corporation.

CAF America has aimed to open the range of possibilities that allows donors to give more impactfully, more directly, in more targeted ways and that increases fulfillment for the donors and enriches the global philanthropic ecosystem. We look forward to what we can accomplish in the next 30 years.