
Modesty may make some families reticent, but others point to the potential for good in the family name and reputation. Many families have learned to take explicit advantage of what can be a useful grantmaking tool. The family name can garner respect, or at least attention. It can act as an imprimatur of sorts, particularly when the family encourages grantees to let others know they fund them. This NCFP Content Collection provides context for new donors considering how public to be with their grantmaking, management and operations, and provides ideas for existing foundations and boards contemplating this question.
Tip: Check out the Policy Central: Grantmaking and Strategy collection for sample Publicity and Recognition policies.
Transparency in Family Philanthropy: Opening to the Possibilities


Transparency Case Study: The Jay and Rose Phillips Family Foundation of Minnesota
Article
Transparency Case Study: Bush Foundation
Blog Post
Transparency Case Study: The Russell Family Foundation
Blog Post
Transparency Case Study: Barr Foundation
Blog Post
Transparency Case Study: Tracy Family Foundation
ArticleEmbracing Transparency at the The Russell Family Foundation

The Lasting Value of Transparency
Article
Transparency, Privacy, and Trust: Finding Balance for Family Foundations
Article
Practicing Transparency for Discovery and Learning
Article
Nurturing Relationships with Transparency
ArticleGiving Publicly vs. Giving Anonymously

Should I Give Anonymously or Publicly?
Article
What is my giving style? Two considerations: Visibility & Impact
Report
Privacy and Publicity: First Steps in Creating a Communications Strategy
ArticleAdditional Views on Transparency and Anonymity

Foundation Transparency: Opacity — It’s Complicated
Report
Sharing What Matters: Foundation Transparency – Center for Effective Philanthropy
Report
Admitting Failure: Learning from Mistakes in Philanthropy
Article
10 General Guidelines for Greater Foundation Transparency
Article
Transparency in Family Foundations: the Strength of Glass Pockets
Article
Privacy and Publicity: First Steps in Creating a Communications Strategy
Article
Transparency, Privacy, and Trust: Finding Balance for Family Foundations
Article
How to Walk the Talk When You’re Walking with Others
Article
Grantmaking That is “With” and Not “For”
Article
Soliciting Grantee Feedback: a Benefit to Both Sides
Article
To Whom You Are Accountable
PresentationTransparency and Telling Your Story: NCFP Webinars

Privacy, Purpose and the Public Trust: Finding a Balance

Balancing Family Privacy and Public Trust: Transparency in Family Philanthropy

Family Philanthropy and Media Perceptions

Community Connections: Engaging Diverse Stakeholders in Your Grantmaking

Transformation, Transparency, and Ongoing Learning: Focusing Your Foundation’s Approach and Strategy

Telling your story to maximize community impact
