Family philanthropy has many points of inflection—moments to embrace proven practices and advance momentum or to stall out due to uncertainty and lack of clarity. Rooted in intentional philanthropy, the Family Giving Lifecycle framework names these critical points and orients donors toward effective outcomes.
While every philanthropic journey is unique, there are points at which all families must make decisions. Find the tools you need to make decisions that lead to effective outcomes at each stage of your philanthropic lifecycle.
Introduction & Glossary
Overview
What does this toolkit contain and how can you use it?
Start by downloading the introduction and familiarizing yourself with the glossary of terms.
Philanthropic Purpose
Overview
Defining why you give inspires and informs your philanthropy. It makes what you do matter—for yourself, for your family, and for the communities you support.
Learn how to uncover and articulate your philanthropic purpose.
Worksheets
Impact Vehicles & Structures
Overview
The form of your giving must follow the function you intend for your philanthropy.
Explore the vehicles and structures available to you and how to determine
which best supports your philanthropic goals.
Governance
Overview
Governance is the framework that helps you establish decision-making principles, policies, and practices.
Understand the process and value of building a strong governance structure.
Worksheets
Impact Strategies & Tools
Overview
How will you use your resources to achieve your philanthropic purpose?
Learn how to consider the context in which your operating, the role you want to play within that context, and what processes you need to implement to achieve those goals within your role.
Worksheets
Assessment & Learning
Overview
Effective philanthropy is a process of continual learning. An assessment plan will help you define and measure the progress of your partners, your strategy, and the governance and operations of your social impact vehicles.
Find out how to create a robust learning agenda and assessment plan.
Worksheets
Operations & Management
Overview
Efficient and resilient operations and management support and extend your philanthropic purpose.
Learn about various administration constructs and considerations for implementation.
Worksheets
Succession & Legacy
Overview
What is the consequence of your philanthropy and who will steward future efforts? Legacy requires creating and implementing plans for donor intent, lifespan, continuity, and succession.
Explore how to define and build your legacy and prepare for transitions.
Worksheets