An influx of assets is a powerful transition point in philanthropy. With rising resources comes the budding potential to do more of what you’re already doing—or, perhaps, trying something new. Either way, additional resources will often provide your foundation with new options for making a difference according to your foundation’s mission. With more money comes opportunity as well as change.
Philanthropic Mission and Strategies
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Do you have younger family members who are interested in learning more about whether being a family foundation trustee is right for them? Are you looking for a quick and fun way to introduce them to concept of stewardship and the demands and possible challenges of being a foundation board member? Then this 5-minute video is right for you.
Philanthropy is often described as society’s “risk capital.” Our generosity can support causes and ideas that business and government agencies cannot or will not. We can use our resources to inspire new ideas, challenge existing thinking, or continue supporting an organization when others won’t. However, the idea of risk in philanthropy quickly muddies as we direct our generosity through a family foundation, donor-advised fund, or other collective effort.
Just as an individual goes through life cycles, so does a charity. From the start-up phase to adopting a strategic vision to looking at ways to grow the charity, there are many steps to consider at each important phase of the charity’s lifetime. By bringing discipline and focus to your family philanthropy and going beyond just writing checks, your charity has the best chance of making a greater impact.
Philanthropists from Europe, the United States, Asia, and the Middle East are approaching philanthropy in an innovative way and actively promote their causes. Interviews illustrate how they are trying to make a lasting change in terms of impact on the ground as well as the longevity of their charitable organizations. For many philanthropists, achieving a sustainable outcome is the second motivation, after the cause itself. And impact investing and collaborative philanthropy are considered as the top trends in achieving sustainable outcome.
Your fellow FOX members have contributed these philanthropic planning tools and samples. Please note that these samples have been provided for illustrative purposes only, and may not represent the latest versions at the organizations listed.
The act of giving through family philanthropy can be a transformative experience for both family members and the communities they serve, sometimes with an impact that lasts generations. However, achieving a positive, enduring impact requires purposeful vision and decision making throughout the lifespan of the family's philanthropic work. With the deep experiences of philanthropic families and advisors showing the way forward, the roadmap to meaningful giving can be made easier and more effective.
More than ever before, giving families are working to involve multiple generations in their philanthropy. This emergent trend comes with a shift that focuses the conversation of next generation engagement from a “passing the baton” mentality—where succession planning is the motivator for next gen participation—to an intergenerational focus. Knowing how to make the most of your family’s time, talent, and treasure can be an opportunity of a lifetime to create profound family ties and remarkably effective family philanthropy.