arts & business council

MetLife National Arts Forums Series

Arts & Science Council
Charlotte, North Carolina

Grandpa’s Dead But He Changed His Mind: Donor Intent and the Boomer Generation
08/30/2005

Moderator: C. Barton Landess, JD, Senior Vice President, Development & Planned Giving, Foundation for the Carolinas

Presentation by W.H. Close, Jr., The Springs Close Foundation

Panelists:

• Amy Blumenthal, Philanthropist
• Cammie Hauptfuhrer, Philanthropist

Three representatives of some of the Charlotte region’s leading philanthropic families addressed how they are setting new agendas for philanthropy and what the cultural sector can do to engage this new generation of donors. Several key themes emerged in the discussion between panelists and audience: 1) delineating what makes people give; 2) understanding recent trends in philanthropy; 3) impact of the global economy on philanthropy; and 4) grooming future generations to give back. 

The panelists discussed three major motivations for philanthropic giving: 1) individual passion; 2) family example/tradition; and 3) hands-on involvement in a particular organization or cause. They agreed that the best fundraisers or grant-seekers appeal on multiple levels for maximum success, targeting the “head,” “heart,” as well the idea of “tit for tat.” Cammie Hauptfuhrer stressed a growing trend to give where you are involved and actively engaged, rather than simply for altruistic reasons. There is a strong need to focus on public values, to demonstrate to the donor how their support can increase the effectiveness and impact of an organization within the broader community.

The Charlotte-Mecklenberg Community has a strong tradition of community philanthropy with the largest percentage coming from individual gifts. Panelists stressed the importance of reaching out to a broad donor base rather than relying too heavily on corporate and/or foundation support. Another emerging trend is the importance of planned giving as the baby boomer generation begins to move toward retirement age. The challenge is how to address growing donor specificity. When you are attempting to solicit a gift, ask questions to get the right match and be willing to offer maximum flexibility.

The impact of the global movement on philanthropy has been growing support of national “causes” in lieu of strengthening local organizations. The key question for many donors is: Where will my contribution make the most difference? It will be up to these donors to decide whether to “invest” in a small local organization or a large national/international powerhouse, and nonprofits need to be prepared with a strong case for their relevance and value. 

A key question that emerged throughout the discussion was: How do we pass on the tradition of giving to younger generations? Will Close offered a specific example from The Springs Close Foundation—a “Next Generation Board,” which functions as a committee of the full board and exists to educate emerging family leaders on the core goals and process of the family foundation.