Next generation philanthropy. No matter how you define the next generation, many foundations struggle to engage this subset into their philanthropy. “The most important thing is to treat young people as equals at the board table,” says Susan Price from the National Center for Family Philanthropy. “They don’t know everything the older generation knows, but they know some things the older generation doesn’t. This should be a two-way partnership, not the elders passing down their wisdom from on high.”

Next Generation Philanthropy: Starting Questions

From the outset, you should take time to reflect on the following questions about engaging your next generation in philanthropy:

  • Why do you want to engage the next generation?
  • How do you define the next generation?
  • Who in your family or organization are potential qualifying members?
  • What are potential obstacles for engaging them?
  • How would you describe your ability to communicate with members of the next generation?

Let the Next Generation Shape Their Involvement

Do you like it when people tell you what to do and how to do it, without your giving input? Probably not. To help the next generation feel valued and engaged, find a way to involve them in the decision-making process from the start. Start with conversations about how the next generation wants to participate.

10 Ways To Engage the Next Generation in Philanthropy

  1. Invite the next generation to site visits so that they can experience and be inspired by the foundation’s work.
  2. Encourage the next generation to attend philanthropy workshops and conferences, and provide funds to make it possible.
  3. Take the time to educate the next generation about the foundation’s history, mission, grantmaking strategies, finances, and investment practices.
  4. Involve the next generation in capturing the foundation’s history in writing or on videotape.
  5. Let the next generation make discretionary grants and/or match their individual giving.
  6. Encourage the next generation to become well versed in the issues about which they are passionate, and to get involved as volunteers, not just as donors.
  7. Connect the next generation with a board member or trusted advisor as a mentor.
  8. Create internship opportunities for the next generation if your foundation has staff.
  9. Connect your next generation with those from other foundations.
  10. Create opportunities for involvement by the next generation beyond board service (e.g., serving on a committee, suggesting prospective grantees).

Read the full article about next-gen philanthropy at Exponent Philanthropy.