Seen as in investment in the future, leadership programs offer opportunities to the next generations so they can
advance themselves and help others. In the process, they inspire and activate the next generations of philanthropists
through exposure to philanthropic role models and laying the groundwork for the personal and professional networks
that can be a foundation for their future engagement. Some other leadership development activities mentioned by
participants include women's empowerment and leadership training for students.
Those are enablers who enable people like myself to learn about philanthropy, to learn
about creating the networks to make myself a better philanthropist. To me those are actions
that are needed to create the scale for more giving.
women to be independent, that's really important to me too.
and community services were well represented on everyone's lists. Other popular recipients included Bay Area public
arts and recreation, such as the ballet, symphony, zoo, museums, local landmarks, and National Parks, as well as
religious entities, environmental groups, and organizations that promote civic engagement.
makes a difference in people's lives. That's why I donate there.
to the community, and those kinds of things need some people to support, and I like to
support them.
direct donations, most participants did not see a compelling reason to do so. Giving directly to the beneficiary
organization allows the donors to remain engaged in the process and to know that their contributions were being
used efficiently and effectively. Establishing at the outset that the organization is trustworthy makes it possible to
donate unrestricted funds. Many also volunteer their time to the same organizations because they are doing work
that is of importance to the donor, which also allows them to witness the ways in which the organization function
and the outcomes of programs and other initiatives being supported by their contributions. The importance of
direct engagement in the giving process was cited by nearly every participant.
organization that will be using the funds. Funds are transmitted via check or credit card, or in the form of appreciated
stock, artwork, or other assets. In addition, four participants specified that they use a donor advised fund, and one
mentioned having a charitable remainder trust, giving through national charities, and using a community foundation.
These participants use those vehicles for all giving other than small amounts that they donate in cash or equivalent.
Three participants have family foundations, which they view as a different kind of giving vehicle, not one that they use
for their personal giving. Overall, the vast majority of participants contribute directly to the beneficiary organizations.
the more sizeable donations, anything over
$1,000 or something like that. If it's just $100,
$200, for something, we'll go directly.
programs offer opportunities to the next generations
so they can advance themselves and help others