Voices from the Field

An Investment Policy Statement Takes Emotion Off the Table

Posted on August 21, 2019 by Brad Norton

We all have emotions and biases. Fear and greed are two of the most powerful emotions and are often a foundation endowment’s worst enemies. As investors, we need to be self-aware and recognize how these emotions can impact our investment decision-making. In order to reduce investment risk related to emotions, crafting and implementing an Investment Policy Statement (“IPS”) is an… Read More
From NCFP

In Celebration and Gratitude: Alice Buhl

Posted on August 19, 2019 by Virginia M. Esposito

Ginny Esposito and Alice Buhl
This month, Alice Buhl will step down as Senior Fellow of the National Center for Family Philanthropy after more than 24 years of service in one leadership capacity or another. Most of Alice’s contributions have been, by her choice, quiet and uncelebrated. But this transition means that I get to throw caution (her wishes!) to the wind and offer a… Read More
Voices from the Field

Improving Philanthropy with a Public Resource Library

Posted on August 16, 2019 by Jeffrey J. Fairfield

It’s been my privilege to manage The Ruth and Hal Launders Charitable Trust since its inception in 2006. When I took on this challenge, I never imagined how something as simple as giving money for charity could be so complicated. Mastering the private foundation rules, adopting best practices, keeping abreast of trends in modern philanthropy, and searching for outsized impact can make the head spin… Read More
Voices from the Field

The Blacker The Circle

Posted on August 12, 2019 by Valaida Fullwood

Collage of photos from New Generation of African American Philanthropists, Charlotte, NC
Jolted by a stream of recent events, I have been reminded of the value and myriad benefits of Black-led giving circles and why I am a member of one. Hardly alone in this consciousness, I joined two chroniclers and members of giving circles to write "The Sweetness of Circles." In that opinion piece, we share our collective views on why giving circles have growing appeal among Black Americans in these trying times… Read More
Voices from the Field

A Healthy Democracy Needs Local and National Funding

Posted on July 26, 2019 by Joe Goldman

For many, this moment can feel overwhelming and even paralyzing. From climate crises to the opioid epidemic and growing social divides, it can seem impossible to prioritize our philanthropic efforts. As president of a national foundation focused on the health of the American political system, I receive calls daily from family philanthropists who have added the health of our democracy… Read More