Collection

Rural Giving: Strategies for Philanthropic Families

April 6, 2022
How does rural philanthropy differ from urban foundation work? The answers lie in both tactics and cultural context. Much urban philanthropy is focused on the development and implementation of large scale best practice models around specific issues – e.g. health, education, early childhood development. These grants are made to large staffed non-profits intended to reach thousands if not tens of Read More
Collection

Exploring Donor and Family Legacy

A donor legacy statement or video typically focuses on how the overall life experiences of the donors and their family inform and guide the grantmaking mission, strategies, and practices of the foundation. These statements may be written by the donors alone, by the donors with other family members, or, in cases where the donor is no longer alive, by family Read More
Collection

Death and Legacy Transitions

January 4, 2022
The death of a family member—especially a foundation leader—is likely the largest change a family foundation will undergo. Suddenly, or not so suddenly, family members must grapple with grief and loss, and also an onslaught of financial, legal, and organizational issues. How can you plan ahead—as a family, or as a family enterprise (business, foundation, family office)? And how can Read More
Collection

Theories of Change

January 4, 2022
A theory of change describes a process of planned social change, from the assumptions that guide its design to the long-term goals it seeks to achieve. Grant makers who have created theories of change explain that having a theory helps them and their grantees draw logical connections between activities and outcomes. It helps them to articulate exactly what propositions and Read More
Collection

Climate Change: Strategies for Philanthropic Families

December 25, 2021
Climate hazards—driven by global greenhouse gas emissions—will continue to affect and amplify socioeconomic challenges in nearly all areas for decades to come. And many are at the nexus of the very issues that family philanthropies have prioritized: health, equality, human rights, education, health, food security, conservation, and the environment. According to ClimateWorks, despite climate’s impact on the work of philanthropy, Read More
Collection

Systems Change: Pursuing Transformational Philanthropy

November 30, 2021
This Content Collection features selected guides and resources from NCFP Content Partners and Contributors designed to help donors and philanthropic families understand the complex conditions that hold social problems in place, and to imagine and design strategies that will allow you to create transformational impact. Please see the NCFP Content Collection on Advocacy and Lobbying for related information and resources. Read More
Collection

Scaling for Success: Managing an Influx of Assets

November 29, 2021
An influx of assets is a powerful transition point in your philanthropy. With rising resources comes the budding potential to do more of what you’re already doing—or, perhaps, try something new. Either way, additional resources will often provide your foundation with new options for making a difference according to your foundation’s mission. With more money comes opportunity as well as Read More
Collection

I Am Family Philanthropy

November 24, 2021
Every day we see committed and generous families making positive impacts on the communities and issues they serve. Through this special I Am Family Philanthropy video collection, we are delighted to share the stories of NCFP Friends and philanthropic donor families. Read More
Collection

Family Philanthropy Speaks

November 24, 2021
Philanthropy is a practice borne out of compassion and commitment—and one that is deeply rooted in family. It’s also a practice that must continue to evolve to effectively meet the needs of the communities it seeks to serve. Thankfully, there are countless social sector leaders who are advancing the field with their bold ideas and unwavering enthusiasm for the greater Read More
Collection

Listening and Feedback Practices

October 25, 2021
The National Center for Family Philanthropy supports the Fund for Shared Insight’s belief that foundations and nonprofits are more impactful and effective when they regularly and deeply listen to the people and communities at the heart of their work. This Content Collections share examples and stories of listening and learning practices that value lived expertise and advance equity. As FSI Read More