Fees & Policies

All gifts and funds established at the Western Colorado Community Foundation (WCCF) may be subject to fees for administration. WCCF’s fees on funds can vary depending on the level of administrative work, typically ranging from 1 – 3 %. Processing fees may be assessed for pass-through gifts, non-cash assets, or other circumstances as determined by management. A list of administrative and processing fees is available upon request. The Foundation reserves the right to change its fee structure at any time.

Invested assets will be assessed a fee by the investment manager.

Spending Policy for Annual Distribution from Funds

The value of an endowed fund is that it will continue in perpetuity and funds will be available every year for grants and scholarships. WCCF’s spending policy is established by the board of directors and is currently 4.5% of the fund balance calculated against a rolling average of the past 20 quarters (5 years). This “smoothing technique” allows us to maintain a relatively consistent pay-out or distribution amount each year regardless of current year investment performance or volatility in the markets. Our board believes this spending rate is sustainable over the long-term.

Donors who prefer a different annual distribution rate may request such at the time of their donation and when they complete the fund agreement paperwork. Donors who establish non-endowed (e.g., spend down) funds are not subject to this spending policy.