Avoiding Avoidance: Addressing and Managing Conflict in Family Philanthropy

Conflict is normal in any family or organization. Yet, many of us avoid conflicts, even if that avoidance affects relationships or how the foundation operates. In this issue of Passages, you’ll learn about the most common conflicts in family philanthropy, the creative “tactics” some boards use to perpetuate the avoidance, and how you can use simple tools to address conflict in a healthy, productive way.

“Conflict will always occur in an organization that’s growing, evolving, and changing. What makes it a positive or negative experience is if it’s addressed, and how it’s managed.”  — Virginia Esposito, President, National Center for Family Philanthropy