Why give as a family?

Giving as a family is a great way to strengthen family ties and share values and long-term giving goals. Involving your children at an early age can also help them to develop a sense of responsibility. Aligning and finding a collective philanthropic focus as a family often achieves greater impact and can be hugely rewarding.

At CAF we can provide expert strategic advice and the giving vehicles to support your family to give effectively for maximum impact.

Talk to us about family philanthropy  

How can you leave a lasting legacy?

Setting your vision and long-term objectives for giving with present and future generations in mind can be challenging. Not every family has written guidelines about what's acceptable, so over time your family might develop some unwritten rules, such as not giving to well-supported charities, focusing instead on the areas of the greatest need.

If you find it difficult to come to an agreement, an independent philanthropy adviser could provide a neutral point of view. You might also want to consider appointing an independent trustee on a family foundation.

The challenges and opportunities of multi-generational giving

Giving habits vary dramatically with age, with the next generation of donors increasingly incorporating new elements such as impact investing. Giving as a family gives you the opportunity to combine experience with the fresh perspective of a younger generation. In order for all members to feel engaged, it's important to communicate openly and ensure all family members have a say. Putting governance structures in place, for example 'generational committees', can be valuable. 

It's often a good idea to regularly revisit your family's giving strategy, to ensure it remains relevant in the context of evolving social needs and environmental pressures. 

Many family trusts and foundations allocate a defined amount of funding for more ad-hoc giving that comes straight from the heart, supporting causes and charities that may not necessarily meet the wider  strategic objectives of the family foundation. Many family members find this is a useful way to remain engaged.

Read more on adopting a multi-generational approach to your giving

Choosing which charities to support

It can be difficult to understand what's important when it comes to choosing a charity, and to have the confidence that you’ve made the most effective choice and are making a difference.

Our Guide to Giving is designed to equip you and your family to find focus and direction when selecting the right charities in cause areas that matter to you the most. 

Download our Guide to Giving

Get started with family philanthropy

At CAF we can provide expert strategic advice and the giving vehicles to support your family to give effectively for maximum impact. 

Our CAF Charitable Trusts is our flexible, secure giving vehicle for managing long-term giving. For most of our clients that  give as a family, setting up a trust is the preferred choice. You can also start a family CAF Charity Account

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Family philanthropy

Find out more about family philanthropy and start your journey with us

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CAF Charitable Trust

Learn more about starting a family CAF Charitable Trust
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