Raymond James Native
American Development Fund
 
In 2007, Raymond James Tax Credit Funds (RJTCF) and First Nations Development Institute (First Nations) announced the establishment of the Raymond James Native American Development Fund. The fund is the inaugural donor advised fund to be housed at First Nations Development Institute and will provide small grants to programs that have a positive impact on Native American families in low-income areas.

According to Jennifer Sterling, director of Native American community development at RJTCF, “The fund will be another tool we can use to provide resources to the communities we serve. There is a lot of creativity and enthusiasm in Indian Country; we hope the fund will serve as a catalyst for getting some of those ideas off the ground.” The grants will be available to the housing authorities and other governmental units of federally recognized tribes, along with 501(c)3 and Section 7871 organizations. Preference will be given to agencies serving communities where Raymond James Tax Credit Funds has a presence. Sterling also notes that part of the purpose of the fund is to develop new donors for Native organizations: “We can serve as a link for foundations and corporations that are interested in reaching Native American families and organizations, but may not have the knowledge and contacts to feel confident about doing so. It will also allow us to pool resources for a greater impact.” In 2008, efforts will be focused on building assets of the fund. Those who contribute before September 30, 2008 will be honored as charter donors.

First Nations President, Michael E. Roberts, says he is “honored that Raymond James Tax Credit Funds has chosen to recognize and support the meaningful work that First Nations Development Institute is doing in Indian Country.” Roberts hopes the creation of this initial donor advised fund will open the door for other individuals and organizations to partner with First Nations through the establishment of a donor advised fund. “The Board and Staff of First Nations treats each and every dollar we steward with great care, and the money entrusted to us by Raymond James for a donor-advised fund is no exception,” says Roberts.

In addition, activities of the fund are counseled by a distinguished circle of advisors who represent a wide range of nations, expertise and geography. 

To visit the Raymond James Native American Development Fund website, click here.
 
To download a copy of the RJNADF brochure, click here.