DiscoverNonprofit Lowdown#354- Demystifying DAFs with Mitch Stein
#354- Demystifying DAFs with Mitch Stein

#354- Demystifying DAFs with Mitch Stein

Update: 2025-09-08
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I’m joined by my friend and returning guest, Mitch Stein, now Head of Strategy at Chariot, and we’re breaking down the truth about Donor-Advised Funds (DAFs) — what they are, how they work, and what nonprofits are getting wrong about them.


Here's what we cover:

  • What a DAF actually is (and no, it's not just for the ultra-wealthy)

  • Why $250 billion is just sitting in DAFs right now — and how to access it

  • How to stop losing donors due to missed acknowledgments and poor data practices

  • Why building trust (not chasing fund managers) is key to unlocking DAF dollars

  • One truly cringeworthy story from my ED days that still haunts me (you’ll want to avoid this mistake)

If you’re in development, major gifts, or even running a small shop, this episode is packed with practical advice to help you tap into this growing funding source.



Important Links:

Connect with Mitch: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mitch-stein/ 

DAF Fundraising Report:  https://www.givechariot.com/daf-fundraising-report 

How to Train ChatGPT:  https://go.rheawong.com/annual-fundraising-plan-tracker1-3127-4300 

Upcoming Events: https://www.rheawong.com/events/ 

My Big Ask Gifts Program: https://go.rheawong.com/big-ask-gifts-program 

My Book, Get That Money Honey: https://go.rheawong.com/get-that-money-honey 

My Newsletter: https://www.rheawong.com/ 

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#354- Demystifying DAFs with Mitch Stein

#354- Demystifying DAFs with Mitch Stein

Rhea Wong