<P> The States of Jersey are considering introducing civil law type foundations into its law . A consultation paper presenting a general discussion on foundations was brought forth to the Jersey government concerning this possibility . adopted by the states of Jersey 22 October 2008--Foundations (Jersey) Law 200 - </P> <P> In the UK, the word "foundation" is sometimes used in the title of a charity, as in the British Heart Foundation and the Fairtrade Foundation . Despite this, the term is not generally used in English law, and (unlike in civil law systems) the term has no precise meaning . Instead, the concept of Charitable Trust is in use (for example, the Wellcome Trust). </P> <P> In the United States, many philanthropic and charitable organizations (such as the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation) are considered to be foundations . However, the Internal Revenue Code distinguishes between private foundations (usually funded by an individual, family, or corporation) and public charities (community foundations or other nonprofit groups that raise money from the general public). While they offer donors more control over their charitable giving, private foundations have more restrictions and fewer tax benefits than public charities . </P> <P> At an international level there are a series of networks and associations of foundations, among them Council on Foundations, EFC (European Foundation Centre), WINGS (Worldwide Initiatives for Grantmaker Support). Those organization also have a role in supporting research on foundations . </P>

Are owned by the members and typically hold private nonprofit status