Philanthropy

About one-third of our work relates to family philanthropy, most often as part of a complex family enterprise or family office. Our research has shown that effective philanthropy not only supports nonprofit organizations throughout the world, it also strengthens family relationships. For philanthropy to be a positive experience, however, it must be approached with the same discipline and thoughtfulness that propels a business. Our research, consulting experience, and publications on philanthropy, particularly Generations of Giving: Leadership and Continuity in Family Foundations and The Succession Workbook: Continuity Planning in Family Foundations, are our platform of understanding of how families structure and operate their foundations. We use that understanding in our teaching and research about family philanthropy and in our advisory projects with individual family foundations.

Foundations and Families in Transition

A foundation is often the vehicle that families rely on to organize their common philanthropic interests. Much of our work in philanthropy begins with a relationship with the donor generation, helping them articulate and implement their philanthropic goals in the family context. However, like all family-based organizations, family foundations undergo predictable, important and demanding transitions, as the family and its enterprise become more complex over time. The change process often begins with the withdrawal or death of the founding donor who typically controlled the foundation and the board of directors. Family members—the founder’s spouse, offspring, grandchildren, extended family members and in-laws—are faced with the challenge of defining the founder’s legacy anew, while also developing their own vision for the future and shaping a more inclusive governance structure. LGA specializes in working with families as they navigate these transitions that challenge the foundation's continuity

• engaging younger generations in foundation governance and leadership;
  
• substantial increases or decreases in foundation assets;
  
• the dispersal of family members into other cities and states;
  
• the retirement of senior trustees or staff, or
  
• the transition from direct family grantmaking to governance of a professionally-operated foundation.

We help families reexamine and evolve their mission and values, governing principles and practices, organizational structure, and grant programming. Our most typical services in support of family philanthropy include:

• Organizing a “design process” for family philanthropy, including private foundations, funds, and giving programs
• Facilitating philanthropy retreats as family members clarify individual and group values and priorities
• Guiding families through choosing and implementing a participative governance structure (e.g. boards, trustees, staffing, committees, next generation boards)
• Helping families manage the interdependence among the parts of the family enterprise: the foundation, operating businesses, family offices, and other collaborative efforts
• Designing a program to educate, involve, and transition to the next generations
• Advising on the most productive relationships between family members and professional staff