Meet Dani

Dani Richter, Director of Philanthropy at the Fish & Wildlife Foundation of Florida, has been helping Floridians make an impact for the past five years. A Tampa Bay native, Dani grew up fishing its waters and developed a lifelong love for Florida’s unique wildlife and ecosystems. She now combines her expertise in philanthropy with her passion for conservation and is excited to answer your questions. Contact her at [email protected].

December 2025

Dear Dani,

I want to make a donation before the end of the year, but I’m not sure how to make it really count. What’s the best way to make an impact, especially if I want to help protect Florida’s wildlife?

— Year-End Giver, Naples, FL

Dear Year-End Giver,

Great question. I love that you’re thinking about how to give wisely, not just generously. And December is the perfect time to do it, since it’s the most popular month of the year for charitable donations.

If you want to maximize your impact, one of the most effective ways is to donate appreciated stock or mutual funds. You might be able to avoid capital gains taxes and also get a deduction based on the full value of the gift. It’s a simple strategy that can really stretch your donation further.

For folks over 70 and a half, another option is to give directly from an IRA using what’s called a Qualified Charitable Distribution. That kind of gift can help you meet your required minimum distribution without adding to your taxable income.

Of course, if you’re short on time, a good old-fashioned online gift or check in the mail still goes a long way. As long as it’s made or postmarked by December 31, it counts for this tax year.

Big or small, strategic or simple, your support helps protect Florida’s wild places and the animals that call them home. Thank you for choosing to make a difference.

All the best,

Dani
Director of Philanthropy
Fish & Wildlife Foundation of Florida