When it is suggested that the executive director and board chair attend an event, does that mean that it is not justified for additional board members or family members to attend?

Certainly, more than two people can attend an event. The number of people who can attend varies. They all need to have a good foundation reason for being there. Family members and staff who do not have work to do on behalf of the foundation cannot go to the event. But, the entire board could go if it is a 10- person table, for example. Just be very cautious about when people without foundation work go to attend an event. That should not happen.

In terms of family members, if it’s clear that they are going for legitimate foundation reasons, that’s fine, they can go. But if you have questions or think that it may be a violation of the law, you instincts are probably correct and you just have to tell them they can’t.

Read the full article on attending events by Andrew Schulz at the National Center for Family Philanthropy.