Branch and family dynamics

Meaningfully Engaging Next-Generation Adults in Your Family Philanthropy

Posted on March 21, 2024 by Jenna Mulhall-Brereton, Cara Binder-Kopchick, Theo Avery, Nicholas A. Tedesco, Kelly D. Nowlin

One of the most important moments in the life of a family’s philanthropy is when those who are currently managing the efforts formally welcome members of the next generation—or generations—into the work. At any stage this process requires careful planning, but formally doing so when they are adults can be particularly complex. It can come with myriad challenges, but also… Read More

Effective Family Philanthropy: The Compton Foundation

Posted on May 26, 2023 by Ade Adeniji

Here’s How a Longtime Family Foundation Fractured, and Shifted Gears for a Meaningful Final Act In 1894, Missouri native William H. Danforth founded what would become Ralston Purina Company as a balanced food production company for animals. The company revolutionized the feed business with the introduction of pelletized animal feeds. By the early 2000s, Ralston Purina had merged with Swiss… Read More

Executive Summary—Philanthropy in Complex, Multi-Generational Families: Balancing Individual Preference with Collective Purpose

Posted on April 12, 2023

fall leaves
Researchers from Lansberg Gersick Advisors consider how the family foundation’s design and operation is informed by—and informs—the family’s philanthropic activities that take place outside of it. The purpose of this study is to help families understand how they can design their family philanthropy to best meet their goals.    The study’s standout finding was that the creation of a robust family… Read More

Full Report—Philanthropy in Complex, Multi-Generational Families: Balancing Individual Preference with Collective Purpose

Posted on April 12, 2023 by Wendy R. Ulaszek, Ph.D., Ashley Blanchard

Tree in field
Researchers from Lansberg Gersick Advisors hypothesized that families’ abilities to work together effectively in their philanthropy is dependent not only on the way they design their collective family foundation, but also in how they structure the philanthropic activities outside of it. From 2018-2022, they conducted surveys and interviews and found that as families evolve, they face common dilemmas regarding their… Read More

Conflict Repair & Fostering Psychological Safety: Building and expanding this essential leadership skill within the culture of family philanthropy

Posted on February 13, 2023 by Rebecca Trobe

Two women hugging. Conflict repair
This three-part series will offer those who lead within family philanthropies the time to examine and discuss how to be more equipped, mindful and proactive in navigating conflict. This is an opportunity for family leaders to increase their awareness, skill sets and comfort levels in approaching, managing and mitigating conflict within their family systems and cultures. It is essential that… Read More

Balancing Individual and Family Interests in Collective Giving

Posted on November 30, 2022 by Wendy R. Ulaszek, Ph.D., Ashley Blanchard

Multiple stones on left side balanced by single, larger stone on right side
For many, family philanthropy presents an opportunity to create a shared experience, unifying the family by working together toward a lasting legacy of impact. Family philanthropy can also give participants an opportunity to explore and cultivate their personal—and sometimes separate—philanthropic passions. There can be an inherent tension between these two goals, and many families struggle with how to address it—especially… Read More

Collective Impact Request Form

Posted on February 2, 2021 by Tracy Family Foundation

This form, developed by the Tracy Family Foundation, offers a clear process for family members to present organizations or projects they are passionate about to other family members. We believe that a clear process will encourage more family members to share their passions with other family members, increase collaborative opportunities throughout the Tracy family, and help us to live out… Read More

Family Identity and Culture

Posted on December 7, 2020 by Phillip Wm. Fisher, Armando Castellano, Lisa Parker, Tony Macklin

father, son, and grandfather skipping stones - traditions, generations, family cutlure
Many philanthropic families have a strong sense of identity, defined by their traditions and culture and carried out through their commitments to one another and the public trust. A clear family identity is driven by a shared purpose and philosophy, which in turn promotes a successful collective giving effort. How do families understand their shared purpose and ensure it faithfully… Read More

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