Families Unlock Brighter Futures with Donor-Advised Funds

For grateful families, giving back to Children's National Hospital makes their story bigger than their own. It offers hope for a child like theirs to have a healthier future.

Many supporters choose to give through a donor-advised fund (DAF), a charitable investment account, to easily allocate how much and how often to contribute. Donors receive an immediate income tax deduction, while DAF contributions can grow tax-free to make an even greater impact. Some even choose to name Children's National as a beneficiary on their account to extend their legacy.

Each year, DAF Day celebrates the collective impact of donating through these funds. As we celebrate DAF Day 2025 on Oct. 9, we recognize the parents, grandparents, providers, friends and community members who transform pediatric health with their giving.

Jessica and Gary Daigle Jr. have supported Children's National for more than two decades, including through a DAF. "It's simple and tax-efficient to continue giving in a meaningful, consistent way," Jessica says.

In fall 2002, their son, Joseph, who was less than a week old, was flown to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) at Children's National. "I'll never forget being able to hold his tiny hand just before surgery — and the relief of seeing him recovering in the NICU later that same day," Jessica says.

Less than two weeks later, Jessica and Gary brought Joseph home. "Every October, we remember the gratitude we felt for the compassionate and skilled team who saved his life," she says. "Supporting Children's National each year is our way of honoring his lifesaving care and ensuring other families receive the same chance we did."

Dr. Scott Reines and Tricia Reines saw firsthand the impact of Children's National when their granddaughter, Naomi, developed Type 1 Diabetes at age 6. Thanks to world-class emergency and long-term care, she now thrives as a teenager.

Over the years, Dr. Reines consulted for biotechnology companies. He always wanted to do more to give back. When opportunities arose, he reserved funds for charitable giving through a DAF to support Children's National.

"Children's National has provided great support for Naomi and her parents, while also pursuing outstanding research," Dr. Reines says. "Tricia and I are very proud to support these efforts."

Learn more about giving to Children's National through your DAF.