This post first appeared on The Philanthropic Initiative’s (TPI) blog. Family foundations often begin with a singular vision—a passion passed down through generations, or an individual’s desire to make a lasting difference that extends beyond their life. As these foundations grow, however, their governance needs can become more complex. Governance refers to the systems, structures, and... Read More
Family foundations are a cornerstone of philanthropy, channeling generational wealth into impactful grantmaking and community initiatives. These foundations are often guided by the values, traditions, and priorities of a donor family, resulting in distinct governance structures, staffing patterns, and grantmaking approaches. Whether entirely family-run or including nonfamily board members, family foundations play a vital role... Read More
This handbook details workplace policies, benefits, leave policies, and expectations at the Jamie and Denise Jacob Family Foundation. It’s a valuable resource for foundations creating or updating their employee policies. Topics include: Compensation, benefits, and paid leave Workplace culture and expectations Anti-harassment and non-discrimination policies Technology, social media, and confidentiality guidelines Read More
Managing a private foundation with staff requires more than just focusing on its mission; it also demands careful attention to human resources. By addressing key HR questions, you can ensure your foundation is legally compliant, ethically sound, and a positive place to work. Below is a checklist to help guide your HR practices. Advisors and... Read More
It’s often said that family and money don’t mix well. However, I would challenge the notion—I literally wrote the book, A Passion for Giving, on the topic, providing practical guidelines to leverage family wealth for impactful philanthropy. Giving is not just good for the world, but also integral to nurturing healthy family dynamics—and may even... Read More
Family foundations play a unique role in philanthropy, blending personal values with strategic giving. These foundations—often led and funded by family members—shape communities through their grantmaking and long-term commitments. Our annual Foundation Operations and Management Report (FOMR) offers a window into how these foundations operate, the challenges they face, and the impact they create. In the... Read More