Stories for Engaged Learning

Stories for Engaged Learning is a collection of case studies rooted in the practical experiences of family and private foundations; the stories are designed for engaged learning.

Families enjoy a rich tradition of sharing stories that connect, amuse and inform.  Each story in this collection shines a spotlight on a family foundation navigating a particular challenge in creating effective philanthropy. The names have been changed, and the actual outcome withheld, so that the stories become the readers’ own to shape.

Download a copy of any of these complimentary case studies, and contact GMA Foundations at (617) 426-7080 to discuss other available case studies and your particular interests. We are grateful to NCFP for sharing this collection.

Case Studies

Changing Grantmaking Priorities: The Angell Foundation

Case Study

Effective grantmaking aligns donor legacy and family interests with a changing world. Sometimes it takes courage to realign grantmaking to both honor family legacy and address urgent community needs.

Finding Agreement on Family Boards: The Belle Trust

Case Study

Family members frequently have different political viewpoints, lifestyles, and priorities. Left unresolved, some disagreements threaten a foundation’s effectiveness and undermine the donor’s intent.

Grantmaking, Geography, and Leadership: Casalli Family Foundation

Case Study

As families grow and disperse geographically, foundations dedicated to the donor’s hometown are challenged to create a vision for the future that engages all trustees.

Choosing and Preparing Your Grantmaking Successors: The Clare Foundation

Case Study

One of the greatest sources of joy and opportunity, anxiety and frustration for philanthropic families may be the transfer of wealth, responsibility and values from one generation to the next.

Changing Nature of Family Boards: Three Mini-Case Studies

Case Study

While they may be cut from the same genetic cloth, family members frequently have different political viewpoints, lifestyles, and priorities.  The changing nature of your family may be creating challenges to harmonious and effective governance.

Blending and Clarifying Roles and Responsibilities: Tinkering Family Fund

Case Study

Effective intra-board and board-staff relationships require shared decision-making that can run counter to a family’s established authority structure. Separating the workings of the foundation from the family relationships is often difficult, but possible.