Engaging the next generation in philanthropy can be both exciting and challenging. Whether you’re thinking of children, grandchildren, nieces, nephews, or younger staff and board members, many foundations struggle to find meaningful ways to bring them into the fold.
“The most important thing is to treat young people as equals at the board table,” says Susan Price of 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.”
Start with the Right Questions
Before creating a plan to engage your next generation, take time to reflect on these key questions:
- Why do you want to engage the next generation?
- How do you define “next generation” for your family or foundation?
- Who are the potential participants?
- What obstacles might prevent their engagement?
- How would you describe your ability to communicate with them?
These questions help lay a thoughtful foundation for genuine, sustained involvement.
Let the Next Generation Help Shape Their Role
Most people don’t enjoy being told exactly what to do, especially without being asked for input. The same goes for younger family or board members.
“Some families want to lay out a plan for the next generation rather than asking what they’re ready for,” says Sharna Goldseker of the Goldseker Foundation. “If we ask how they’d like to be involved, they often give us the best guidance of all.”
Responses will vary: Some young adults may want full board participation. Others might prefer smaller, time-bound roles, or may not be ready to engage at all. If someone declines, don’t be discouraged. Check in again in a year or two. Keep the door open.
Create Space for Real Participation
What tangible opportunities are available for the next generation to get involved? Consider options such as:
- Board service or committee participation
- Shadowing board members or staff
- Attending meetings or joining site visits
“I’ve been going on site visits with my dad,” says Sapphira Goradia, executive director of the Goradia Foundation. “It’s been so helpful to see what questions he asks from a business perspective. I think we better understand how we complement each other in this work.”
Avoid showing up with predetermined roles. Instead, co-create the experience.
“Instead of asking how we can make the next generation engage, ask different questions,” wrote Exponent members Kerry McHugh and Katherine Palms. “What can they contribute? What can they learn? What might spark their interest in philanthropy?”
10 Ways to Engage the Next Generation in Philanthropy
Many Exponent Philanthropy members have found creative and flexible ways to involve younger generations. Here are some ideas to consider:
- Invite them on site visits to help them connect with your foundation’s mission.
- Support their attendance at workshops and conferences, including travel and registration costs.
- Educate them about the foundation’s history, mission, finances, and grantmaking.
- Document your foundation’s legacy together—through writing or video.
- Offer discretionary grantmaking opportunities or match their personal giving.
- Encourage hands-on involvement through volunteering in causes they care about.
- Pair them with a board member or advisor as a mentor.
- Create internship opportunities if your foundation has staff capacity.
- Facilitate peer connections with next-gen members from other foundations.
- Offer ways to contribute beyond board service, such as serving on a committee or recommending grantees.
Want more tips or to connect with others on this journey? Explore our Next Gen resources or contact us to learn about upcoming opportunities.
Empowering the Next Generation of Changemakers
Join us in Columbus, OH — November 11–13, 2025 — for our Annual Conference. Come early for the 990‑PF Pre‑Conference Tax Seminar, a focused, expert-led session that offers practical guidance on navigating private foundation tax filings.