We spoke to Susan and Peter Restler, our longtime supporters whose steady partnership has spanned across our work, including as holders of a Donor Advised Fund at the Foundation. They live in Brooklyn Heights and both serve on local nonprofit boards, with Susan at The Center for Fiction, and Peter at Brooklyn For All, Inc.

What does it mean for you to be part of Brooklyn Community Foundation?

We have been impressed and delighted by the work of Brooklyn Community Foundation since its founding. We have lived in the borough for over forty years and we and our children are “Brooklyn proud.” To have a Foundation that began by listening to the diversity of the community and used what it heard to shape its giving priorities made so much sense to us. 

Why choose a Donor Advised Fund at Brooklyn Community Foundation as a tool for your family’s giving?

The Foundation made a clear and persuasive case for establishing a Donor Advised Fund. Once we decided that this vehicle for giving made sense for us we naturally turned to those who had been so convincing! And we have not been disappointed. The online portal works well and the Foundation’s staff has been responsive to our questions. 

What sets our Donor Advised Fund program apart from the alternative, commercial DAF programs?

A Donor Advised Fund is a way to effect a giving plan. For us, Brooklyn nonprofits are a priority—as this is the Foundation’s reason for being, its resources and guidance are great assets for us.