Description
Book SynopsisExamines continuity and leadership over time within family foundations. This book presents the study of two aspects of philanthropy funding and volunteers each essential to the survival of a foundation. It is about the why and the how of these two crucial aspects.
Trade ReviewGenerations of Giving draws upon the real-life experiences of thirty families to provide new perspectives on how family foundations achieve sustained success across time and generations. It's a valuable and important resource for philanthropic families at all stages of their evolution. -- Tara S. Rockefeller, chair, Rockefeller Family Philanthropy Committee
Generations of Giving combines years of sensitive research and analysis of family systems with the unique gestalt of the family foundation. The result is a comprehensive look at the various approaches to making a family foundation work, or as the case may be, not work. This book is a must-read for anyone who has a family foundation or is considering one. It will also be immensely valuable to advisors who counsel families on their philanthropic options. -- H. Peter Karoff, founder and chairman, The Philanthropic Initiative, Inc.
Kelin Gersick has written the authoritative study on family foundations. Based on hundreds of in-depth interviews and case studies, Dr. Gersick and his team of researchers have identified the most important challenges facing family foundations and the fundamental practices that lead to their success. Dr. Gersick's magnificent book is clear, sensitive, and convincing. This is the book that family foundations must read. -- John Davis, faculty chair, Families in Business Programs, Harvard Business School
The author's strength lies in using his material to present practical solutions...including the use of professional non-family advisors and suggestions for planning the transition of leadership to the next generation. Such 'how to' elements are a core part of the book's appeal, enabling others to emulate the more positive case studies in which the foundations' work brings the family together 'like a rock' and frienships develop between philanthropic parents and siblings as they 'go on trips together, so site visits and learn together.' * Philanthropy Uk Newsletter *
Generations of Giving poses timely questions about how family foundations can survive and thrive as organizations. Based on rigorous research and thoughtful analysis, this valuable book presents important new knowledge about the experiences of families that have traveled the path of philanthropy across generations. -- Melissa Berman, president, Rockefeller Philanthropy Advisors
Table of ContentsChapter 1 Introduction Part 2 Part I: Family Foundations in Context Chapter 3 Understanding Family Foundations Chapter 4 Family Philanthropy in North America Part 5 Part II: The Development of the Family Foundation Chapter 6 Choices and Challenges for the Controlling Trustee Foundation Chapter 7 The Collaborative Family Foundation Chapter 8 The Family-Governed Staff-Managed Family Foundation Part 9 Part III: Lessons on Governance and Continuity Chapter 10 Mission and Dream: Inventing and Reinventing the Foundation Chapter 11 Family Dynamics Chapter 12 Developing the Organizational Structure Chapter 13 Preparing for Future Generations Chapter 14 The Promise of Generations of Giving Chapter 15 Appendices Chapter 16 Bibliography
