Principles of Effective Family Philanthropy

Effective family philanthropy is a collective commitment to creating lasting and meaningful change in our communities. Ultimately, effective family philanthropy embodies four core principles: accountability, equity, reflection and learning, and relationships.

The NCFP Guide for Effective Family Philanthropy

NCFP developed a guide to help demystify the internal and external practices that promote positive outcomes and prepare families to create meaningful change. It explores the four principles and is intended to be a catalyst for reflection, intention, and a commitment to action from the family philanthropy field.

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Why the Principles Matter

Accountability

Reflection and Learning

Equity

Relationships

Effective Family Philanthropy in Action

NCFP partners with Inside Philanthropy to share the stories of effective families. The selection of articles from the series below demonstrates how families are putting the principles into practice.

Tegan and Brian Acton

How Billionaire Couple Tegan and Brian Acton Are Giving in the Bay Area and Beyond

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The Compton Foundation

Here’s How a Longtime Family Foundation Fractured, and Shifted Gears for a Meaningful Final Act

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The Roundhouse Foundation

How the Family Behind a Sportswear Behemoth Is Expanding Its Philanthropy for Rural Communities

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The Woodcock Foundation

The Evolution of the Woodcock Foundation: A Progressive Family Funder Branches Out

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The Cricket Island Foundation

What It Looks Like When a Multigenerational Family Foundation Makes All Voices Equal

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Visit the resource library for more case studies.