Is family philanthropy a false god? In my opinion, no — it’s just hard. When it comes to ambitious goals, I believe hard is good, and easy is bad. It’s a good thing, too, as researchers have found that the most durable, profound pleasure comes from activities that require effort.
Read MoreEvery nonprofit executive and fundraiser carries around the exhilarating memories, but not all are awash in sweetness and light. I spent innumerable sleepless nights leading two wonderfully innovative and successful nonprofit organizations. As with all stressful experiences, each of these was punctuated by crucially important lessons. I learned them the hard way. Now, as I reflect on my experiences and nurture the next generation of philanthropic leaders, I share them so that others might benefit.
Read MorePhilanthropy is one of my favorite things. I have dedicated many hours to it for myself, and my clients, over the past 25 years. But, as Andrew Carnegie said, “It is more difficult to give money away intelligently than to earn it in the first place.” Philanthropy — it’s a messy business. And, in philanthropy even more than in investing, far too often we (including yours truly) are still ruled by our caveman brains.
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