Today, October 8, is DAF Day—a nationwide day of generosity that encourages donor-advised fund holders to put charitable dollars already set aside to work. A grant to The Elaine Clark Center can help children and young adults with developmental disabilities learn, grow, build independence, and take part in the everyday experiences every family hopes for.
If you have a donor-advised fund, recommending a grant today is a meaningful way to strengthen inclusive programs, compassionate care, and family-centered support in Metro Atlanta.
What Is a Donor-Advised Fund?
A donor-advised fund, often called a DAF, is a charitable giving account established through a sponsoring organization such as a community foundation or financial institution. Once funds are contributed to the account, they are designated for charitable giving. The donor can then recommend grants to eligible nonprofit organizations over time.
For many people, a DAF makes it easier to be intentional about philanthropy. The funds have already been set aside for charitable purposes, so DAF Day offers a simple opportunity to turn that intention into direct support for a cause that matters.
Why a DAF Grant Matters at The Elaine Clark Center
For more than 55 years, The Elaine Clark Center has served children, young adults, and families through inclusive, individualized programs. Our work extends from early childhood through young adulthood, helping people of all abilities develop skills, confidence, relationships, and greater independence.
A DAF grant can help sustain the programs and services that make this work possible, including inclusive child development, therapeutic intervention, specialized education, out-of-school enrichment, pediatric nursing, social services, scholarships, and life-skills programming for young adults.
Every contribution helps create opportunities for meaningful progress—whether that looks like a child building a friendship in the classroom, a student gaining confidence with a new skill, a family receiving supportive guidance, or a young adult practicing independence in the community.
Giving Supports Everyday Moments That Matter
Impact is not always measured in one big milestone. Often, it is found in the everyday moments that help children and young adults feel included, capable, and connected.
At The Elaine Clark Center, those moments can include participating in a birthday celebration with peers, learning to communicate a need, joining an after-school activity, practicing a life skill, or experiencing the pride that comes with accomplishing something independently. For families, they can also mean knowing their loved one is welcomed, understood, and supported.
Through our inclusive education philosophy and family-centered approach, we work to ensure that every individual has access to care and learning experiences tailored to their needs and potential.
How to Recommend a DAF Grant
Making a DAF gift is typically straightforward. Start by logging in to the account held with your donor-advised fund provider. Search for The Elaine Clark Center and recommend the grant amount you would like to direct. Your provider will guide you through the remaining steps.
When you make your recommendation, please consider sharing your name and contact information with us when your provider gives you that option. Some DAF gifts arrive anonymously, which can make it difficult for us to personally express our gratitude and show donors the difference their generosity creates.
If you have already recommended a grant to The Elaine Clark Center, please let us know. We would be honored to thank you and celebrate the impact you are making for children, young adults, and families in our community.
Strengthening Inclusive Programs in Metro Atlanta
Families seeking disability services for children in Atlanta often need more than a single resource. They need a trusted community that understands how care, education, therapy, advocacy, and family support work together. The Elaine Clark Center provides that continuity through programs designed to meet individuals where they are and support their growth over time.
From inclusive early childhood programs to Heart of Hope Academy, out-of-school programs, and ECC Life for young adults, our services help participants keep moving forward. Donor support helps us continue offering the personalized attention and meaningful opportunities that families count on.
Your DAF grant can help ensure that more children and young adults with disabilities have access to supportive spaces where they can learn, belong, and thrive.
A Meaningful Way to Give With Purpose
DAF Day is a reminder that charitable dollars can become real-world support when donors choose to act. If you have a donor-advised fund, you have an opportunity today to invest in inclusive education, compassionate care, and a stronger future for individuals with developmental disabilities.
Please consider recommending a grant to The Elaine Clark Center. Together, we can continue building a community where children, young adults, and families are seen, supported, and empowered.
FAQ
Can I make a gift to The Elaine Clark Center through my donor-advised fund?
Yes. You can recommend a grant through the organization that manages your donor-advised fund by searching for The Elaine Clark Center.
What will my DAF gift support?
Your gift can help strengthen inclusive childcare, specialized education, therapeutic supports, enrichment programs, family services, scholarships, and life-skills opportunities for young adults.
Why should I tell The Elaine Clark Center about my DAF gift?
Some DAF providers send grants without donor information. Letting us know helps us thank you personally and keep you connected to the impact of your generosity.
Does The Elaine Clark Center serve only young children?
No. The Elaine Clark Center offers support from infancy through young adulthood, including early childhood programs, K–12 special education, out-of-school programs, and ECC Life for participants ages 22–30.
How can I learn more about supporting The Elaine Clark Center?
Visit our website or contact our team to learn more about making a gift, volunteering, sponsoring a program, or becoming part of the community that helps our participants and families thrive.
