I want to know how to begin a foundation to transfer assets to , don't you first need a non-profit organization to fundraise, or that is somehow connected? Can you then set up a trust fund from there? Any lawyers in tha house? :rolleyes:

For individuals with modest estates, perhaps the easiest way to do this is to set up a donor-advised charitable fund at an investment house like Fidelity, Schwab, etc. See for example: You can be your own charitable foundation - MSN Money (http://articles.moneycentral.msn.com/RetirementandWills/RetireInStyle/YouCanBeYourOwnCharitableFoundation.aspx)

You can also set up a private foundation through several brokerage houses. See for example: https://www.fidelityprivatefoundations.com/getstarted.html

There is no rule that a foundation must fund raise. Hope this helps.