From the Archive: Difficult Discussions at Difficult Times

NCFP’s From the Archive series highlights resources from our Knowledge Center that have stood the test of time and continue to provide valuable guidance for the field. 

In family philanthropy, times of crisis often prompt difficult but necessary conversations that can help families affirm their values, shape their strategies, and grow their impact. All funders have to grapple with local and national crises—from natural disasters to civil unrest. Family philanthropies may also face internal crises, such as family conflict, the death of a family member, or a divorce. Regardless of the source of tumult, families can use these challenging times to remain steadfast in their work or consider meaningful shifts. 

“…crises offer short-lived opportunities for families to have profound and, possibly, revelatory discussions about topics rarely touched on when things are going well.” 

Published in 2002, this issue brief was released following the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks and other national crises. Much of the advice funders shared via interviews in 2002 remain relevant, including: 

• Stick to what you know best: carrying out your mission 

• Talk with people in the community affected directly and indirectly by the crisis 

• Consider increasing your payout and making extraordinary or emergency grants 

• Make grants that address systemic or root causes of the crisis 

• Collaborate with other funders 

“The decisions families make responding to crisis may lead them to rethink their original goals. Or conversely, it may reaffirm even more strongly the rightness of the path they have chosen,” says author Deanna Stone. We encourage families to ask themselves what they hope to accomplish and if their actions are aligned with their values and goals. Make space for reflection and conversation and lean on your values in challenging times to determine the best path forward for your philanthropy. 

Read the full issue brief here.