Tell Your Members of Congress to Protect Philanthropy

Find your member of Congress and their contact information.

We're asking you to reach out to your Member of Congress to voice concerns with provisions in the tax bill that could impact philanthropy. You may only have a couple of minutes to make your point as staff will be receiving similar requests and information from other groups impacted by the bill and they will also be preparing for the mark-up. It's important to convey your message clearly and plainly, highlighting what a reduction in grantmaking to nonprofits looks like for the foundation and for the community you serve.

Note: We believe this constitutes permissible self-defense lobbying for private foundations. Check out our Legal Resources Team’s analysis.

If you’re having a longer conversation, consider using these talking points.

Draft Private Foundation Script

Hi, my name is [name], and I am the CEO of the [foundation name] in [city/town, state].

I’m calling to urge Rep. [Congressperson last name] to oppose the increased tax on private foundations we're hearing is in the tax bill being marked up by the Ways and Means Committee.

Increasing the tax to as much as 10% will significantly reduce the charitable resources going to local nonprofits. At a time when federal funding is uncertain and the needs in our community are growing, foundations like mine are providing critical investments.

Now is not the time to take charitable dollars away from [city/town/region]. It is essential Congress does not restrict this important community resource.

Stand up for charitable nonprofits and oppose this provision.

Draft Community Foundation and Other Grantmakers Script

Hi, my name is [name], and I am the CEO of [foundation name] in [city/town, state].

I’m calling to urge Rep. [Congressperson last name] to oppose the increased tax on private foundations we're hearing is in the tax bill being marked up by the Ways and Means Committee.

Increasing this tax on private foundations will put more pressure on already-stretched nonprofits like mine. We are grantmakers ourselves, and we know firsthand how important philanthropy is, particularly as federal funds are reduced. Nonprofits here in [city/town] provide critical services. Our local private foundations are crucial partners. Taking charitable dollars away from them means fewer dollars reach nonprofits and our whole community will suffer.

Now is not the time to take charitable dollars out of our community.