Generations of Giving

Reviews / Votes

Generations of Giving draws upon the real-life experiences of thirty families to provide new perspectives on how family foundations achieve sustained success across time and generations. It's a valuable and important resource for philanthropic families at all stages of their evolution. -- Tara S. Rockefeller, chair, Rockefeller Family Philanthropy Committee Generations of Giving combines years of sensitive research and analysis of family systems with the unique gestalt of the family foundation. The result is a comprehensive look at the various approaches to making a family foundation work, or as the case may be, not work. This book is a must-read for anyone who has a family foundation or is considering one. It will also be immensely valuable to advisors who counsel families on their philanthropic options. -- H. Peter Karoff, founder and chairman, The Philanthropic Initiative, Inc. Kelin Gersick has written the authoritative study on family foundations. Based on hundreds of in-depth interviews and case studies, Dr. Gersick and his team of researchers have identified the most important challenges facing family foundations and the fundamental practices that lead to their success. Dr. Gersick's magnificent book is clear, sensitive, and convincing. This is the book that family foundations must read. -- John Davis, faculty chair, Families in Business Programs, Harvard Business School The author's strength lies in using his material to present practical solutions...including the use of professional non-family advisors and suggestions for planning the transition of leadership to the next generation. Such 'how to' elements are a core part of the book's appeal, enabling others to emulate the more positive case studies in which the foundations' work brings the family together 'like a rock' and frienships develop between philanthropic parents and siblings as they 'go on trips together, so site visits and learn together.' * Philanthropy Uk Newsletter * Generations of Giving poses timely questions about how family foundations can survive and thrive as organizations. Based on rigorous research and thoughtful analysis, this valuable book presents important new knowledge about the experiences of families that have traveled the path of philanthropy across generations. -- Melissa Berman, president, Rockefeller Philanthropy Advisors