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Ethics and Accountability in Family Philanthropy

A family’s philanthropic values – it’s sense of stewardship, personal commitments and interests of individual family members, and the shared desire to foster charitable impulses in children and future generations – are the foundation of family philanthropy. Articulating and discussing values on a regular basis is part of ethically responsible giving. And ensuring that your grants and gifts are effective Read More
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Getting Started

As a philanthropic individual or family, it all starts with you. Depending on your vision and goals, you have many choices available to you for establishing a family philanthropy. If you plan on involving family, be sure to discuss your plans as a group so they are engaged from the outset. This Content Collection highlights key factors and questions you’ll Read More
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Transitions in Family Philanthropy

Many families put off preparing for a transition until it is upon them. Fear of the day a key family member and leader will no longer be able to participate is a common explanation for why families don’t address critical preparation for a leadership transition. This Content Collection encourages you to view upcoming transitions as an opportunity – to learn Read More
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Family Dynamics

In this Content Collection, 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. Read More
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Board Compensation

November 17, 2017
Guidance on the legal regulations regarding compensation, suggestions for how to initiate a conversation among your board members about whether or not compensation is appropriate, and suggestions for how to develop a written policy based on this conversation. Read More
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Community Foundations Family Philanthropy Network

November 16, 2017 | Jason Born, Katie Scott, Tony Macklin
NCFP’s Community Foundations Family Philanthropy Network supports the special roles community foundations play with philanthropic families as a trusted resource and partner. Included here is a complete collection of Spark Session webinar replays, issue briefs, and other resources that have been created as part of this network. Read More
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Self-Dealing and Conflicts of Interest

This Content Collection defines conflict of interest and self-dealing in family philanthropy, and highlights the most common problem areas, including: excessive compensation, tickets to fundraising events, and overlapping board members. Also included are recommendations for steps that foundations can take to avoid these pitfalls, including regular training, maintaining lists of disqualified persons, and adopting travel and conflict of interest policies. Read More
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Family Foundation Board Chair Roles and Responsibilities

Successful family foundation board chairs are able to both drive action and manage egos — and are often the difference between a foundation deftly navigating challenging situations and being tripped up by them. It’s a role that needs careful consideration. Those serving in this capacity need the leadership skills needed to run smooth, productive board meetings as well as a Read More
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Giving While Living: Profiles of Donors and Families

November 14, 2017 | The Bridgespan Group
Giving While Living — the idea that people with wealth should use it during their lifetime to help others — is central to the work of a growing number of donors, including Atlantic Philanthropies’ founder Chuck Feeney, who has been a leading spokesperson in this movement to inspire individuals at varying levels of wealth to actively give their funds, skills Read More