The information on this page answers some of the most commonly asked questions about the 1918 Society. Please don’t hesitate to be in touch with your own interest or questions.

Yes, active status in 1918 Society for Donors and Council Network Supporters requires the minimum contribution at each giving level on a rolling 12-month basis. The CEO, in consultation with the WACA Board Chair and Advancement Committee Chair, will invite Strategic Advisers to join/continue on an annual basis.

All gifts to the 1918 Society must align with WACA’s mission, values, and strategic priorities. WACA accepts cash, checks, electronic funds transfers, credit card payments, cryptocurrency, gifts of appreciated stock, and donations made through Donor Advised Funds. WACA may also credit in-kind contributions such as donated goods (e.g., food, equipment, supplies) and/or donated services, but cannot recognize the cash value of in-kind contributions for tax purposes. WACA reserves the right to respectfully decline any gift after review by the Advancement Committee.

Yes; however, consistent with federal regulations, donors who make gifts through Donor-Advised Funds often may not receive goods, services, or other tangible benefits in exchange for their contributions. Please consult with your financial advisor about using your DAF for charitable giving under donor recognition programs.

Direct sponsorships of WACA events will count toward 1918 Society contributions. While donated goods (e.g., food, equipment, supplies) and/or donated services may be counted internally for 1918 Society recognition purposes according to an established fair market value, WACA cannot recognize the cash value of in-kind contributions for tax purposes. Tax-deductible unrestricted donations to WACA also count toward an individual or organization’s level of recognition.

WACA warmly welcomes support for existing projects and programs. Ideas for new projects or programs should be discussed with WACA staff, and their feasibility will be based on mission fit, organizational capacity, and other factors.

Yes, donors and supporters are listed in our annual report and website, but you may choose to remain anonymous.

WACA is a 501(c)(3) organization. Donations are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law.

Yes. Corporate matching gifts serve to increase your donation. WACA will recognize the total amount received as a result of any individual’s gift, and we are happy to complete any verification steps needed by the matching company/organization.

Yes. Corporations and nonprofit organizations may receive recognition and benefits in the same way as individuals and should identify one main point of contact for the 12 months following their first donation or sponsorship.

Strategic advisors are invited by the WACA President & CEO in consultation with the Executive Committee. There is no official process for nominating a strategic advisor, though National Board Members are welcome to share suggestions with the President & CEO.

Matthew Hughes

Partner in WACA’s National Mission

To learn more about becoming a 1918 Society supporter and all the ways you can engage with the national Council network, contact Matthew Hughes, President & CEO, at mhughes@worldaffairscouncils.org or (202) 833-4557.