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This issue brief examines the kinds of decisions that family foundations often face and sets out practical, easy-to-apply guidelines for ensuring that the foundation’s decision-making methods vary appropriately, as conditions and circumstances change. It includes factors to consider when selecting a decision-making method, guidance on how to commun...

Through interviews with dozen of donors, Legacy in Family Philanthropy: A Modern Framework, explores big concepts, such as how the ever-evolving idea of legacy relates to values-driven giving and a commitment to impact. While it offers an overarching framework and legal considerations, this companion workbook provides stories, practical tips, and d...

Families are reconsidering their motivations for giving and how their philanthropy carries forward their values, aims, and objectives. It’s promoting deeper intentionality, humility, empathy, understanding, and trust. These shifts are prompting families to reflect on what they seek to build now and how it informs their legacy. It’s imperative to sh...

Couples nearing marriage often confront challenging questions and must make difficult decisions around complex, emotionally charged issues. Somewhere in the process of sorting out financial and estate planning decisions, the question on whether to have a prenuptial agreement may emerge. Here are steps that you and your families may find helpful in ...

Beginning with the story of an older brother receiving a credit card to purchase a bike, his sister sets out to learn more about the basics of borrowing. She has seen her parents use credit cards, but the truth was, she didn't really know much about them. Through questions and examples, she explains how it works.

“History never looks like history when you are living through it.” (John W. Gardner) ... Future histories of the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic will draw heavily on the stories we preserve now. From social distancing to virtual classrooms to Zoom fatigue, every day tests our resilience and resourcefulness—much as World War II and the Grea...

Ultimately, how well your wealth transfer plan fulfills your legacy and meets the needs of the next—and future—generations depends on whom you name as your trustee(s). This makes your trustee selection one of the most critical aspects of an already complex wealth planning process. To help navigate this selection process, work with a framework built...

There is an increasing desire among families to work together to use their resources to solve social challenges. And while a variety of challenges can compromise the work, successful intergenerational giving strategies can foster an ongoing tradition of giving, make an impact on issues the family cares about, and deepen family relationships. In thi...

The basic foundation for every core legacy plan starts with five documents: a will, an irrevocable or living trust, a durable power of attorney for financial management, an advanced medical directive, and a HIPAA release. John Forster, a partner with the law firm of Baker Hostetler, who has interviewed some of the most successful families in the U....

A young girl shares a story about the “weird gift” she received on her birthday from her grandmother. It included three jars that were labeled save, spend, and share. There was also an envelope with instructions and money inside it, and a note that said happy birthday and you’re old enough to start thinking beyond spending. With a...

Most teenagers have heard that investing early in life is a way to build wealth over time. They've most likely heard that buying stocks is a common way to invest. In this video, they learn what stocks are and how they are sold and purchased. They will also discover the benefits that stocks offer to investors.

When it comes to responsible investing, a simple checklist can do wonders. It can help investors move beyond intent to action and finally find the right stock or bond portfolio. This checklist includes four easy steps and begins with investors listing their concerns.

Estate planning can encompass more than addressing your potential tax exposure. It frequently requires protection of a “fragile beneficiary,” who can include family members with disabilities, individuals struggling with addiction, spendthrifts, and even minors. With planning options available through various trusts, there are ways in wh...

Without the usual financial pressures of family wealth, how do you teach your children about money, work, and personal responsibility? Because the stakes are high at this point in your family journey, this article by NEPC recommends starting with the family fundamentals and a sense of purpose for the wealth. It further outlines a reliable 1-2-3 str...

In this election year competing visions of tax reform is center stage front page news. Mark Blumenthal, partner and chairman of the Family Office Service Group at Blackman Kallick Plante Moran discussed at this 2012 Financial Executives Forum session why this year may be a once-in-a-lifetime tax planning opportunity for both businesses and wealthy ...