From NCFP

The start of a new year always inspires me to reflect on the blessings we’ve enjoyed and challenges we’ve faced together — and to think about the amazing opportunities that lie ahead for our field… Read More

My moments of reassurance come when a family funder tells me about a grant or project they’ve launched to restore and reinvigorate community. Often, these are efforts to ameliorate suffering but also to get at root circumstances and causes… Read More

Today’s philanthropists, however, are likely to be less connected to place. The modern economy is built less on geography and more on technology – and many of those who are earning wealth are doing so in a global marketplace… Read More

Today, the practice of philanthropy is under continuous review – and not just by our critics or those who look suspiciously at big endowments. Those who want the very best for our field and the greatest impact for our work are also looking beyond why we give to examine the how… Read More

One of my favorite NCFP publication titles, Grace, Gratitude and Generosity, was used for our Faith and Family Philanthropy journal more than a dozen years ago. When we used it, inspired by one of the Journal’s authors, I felt it had meaning far beyond that one publication; I still do today… Read More

For more than 30 years, I’ve been talking with parents, grandparents, aunts and uncles about bringing up healthy, happy, productive children in a philanthropic family. What I’ve come away with – and continue to share with others – are five keys. At the risk of over-simplifying a complex responsibility, I offer the lessons I’ve learned… Read More

Given all the varied grant interests, governing structures, giving vehicles, and staffing systems, you’d think the Committee and staff would be overwhelmed with options and focus. However, we are inspired, invigorated, and happily challenged to ensure the National Forum program delves into as many critical issues as possible, and all with a provocative, sophisticated, and satisfying approach. … Read More

For more than two years, I have been researching, interviewing, and thinking about transitions in the life of a family philanthropy. I’ve listened to anyone willing to talk to me about their experiences with philanthropic transitions. I have learned a great deal about the nature of each transition. Similarly, I’ve learned how families navigated these transitions more, and sometimes less, effectively. … Read More

Every presentation and family meeting in which I participate invariably turns to transitions. In moments of change – within your family, governance, giving programs, or something else – so much more is affected than just the source of the change. We’ve been experiencing transitions pretty personally here at the National Center for Family Philanthropy… Read More