Start a nonprofit memorial fund in three simple steps.

You do the good, we do the paperwork.

We believe the creation of a memorial fund is a beautiful way to honor a loved-one. Our goal is to build the lasting memorial endeavor you envision as quickly and easily as possible.

Brooks Rohlen

Founder, CharitySmith

Three simple steps to start a fund.

We take care of the rest. For more information view our frequently asked questions.

How It Works

CharitySmith’s Role

We manage all administrative duties of starting a nonprofit organization:

Designing/creating the website, creating scholarship & fundraising material/forms, filing tax returns, issuing receipts to donors, accounting, issuing distribution checks, etc.

We have transparent accounting, provide monthly reports and real-time donation updates. Additionally, we advise on charitable giving and help plan fund goals. In short, we do the paperwork.

Fund Administrator’s Role

As the founder of the memorial fund for your loved one, you and those you wish to invite to serve with you, will become Fund Administrators. As such, the opportunity to perform fundraisers, assign scholarships, and coordinate the functions of the memorial fund will be yours.

Get started by completing the Design Your Fund Worksheet.

Browse Memorial Fund Examples

dr gregory magee memorial
dr gregory magee memorial

Why CharitySmith?

Understanding Your Options: There are many online services that allow you to create a memorial in honor of your loved one. As a 501(c)3 public charity, CharitySmith stands apart. Setting up a fund through CharitySmith gives you all of the benefits of creating your own nonprofit.  We do the administrative work, allowing you to get started immediately, and not worry about or be delayed state and federal regulations.

Good to Know: When organizing a fund through a crowd funding site, funeral service, or bank it is not a charity and as a founder your are responsible to pay taxes on any money raised. Contact us to learn more.

 

CharitySmith was such a help to us when we wanted to set up a scholarship fund in honor of my sister who had just passed away. People were eager to donate and we needed something done quickly. The fund was set up within a week of contacting CharitySmith and the website was ready to take donations – it was that simple.

Stacey Warner

Administrator, the Megan's memory scholarship

“CharitySmith has made it so easy for us to focus on what’s important to honor Emily and not having to worry about the website, financials and taxes. Thank you so much! We are so appreciative of everything CharitySmith has done to support our many years of success! What an amazing service you offer to those grieving the loss of a loved one!”

Jane Gross

Administrator, Emily Play it Forward Fund

New fund spotlight.

Joan W. Barkin Memorial Fund

Established to celebrate Joan W. Barkin, M.D., whose dedication to caring for others improved the lives of her patients, community, friends, and family. We can think of no better way to honor her memory than to enable other young women to follow in her footsteps, pursuing their education in the sciences and healthcare fields. Learn More.

Pam Courtney Foundation

Was established tocontinue her legacy in the Bancroft and College Glen community. Pam’s beacon of light shined on everyone who crossed paths with her. This light must continue and be shared for many future generations. The Pam Courtney Foundation intends to continue her legacy and love of sports and the arts. Learn More.

Read our quarterly newsletter.

Every Step of The Way

We are here to support you every step of the way. Our team of compassionate administrators is always available to provide guidance, share ideas, and lend our expertise to ensure the success of your memorial fund.

 
Rachel Ward Rohlen

Rachel Ward Rohlen

Executive Director

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