As a child, Claudia Nichols Cunningham remembers her father sharing stories with her about organizations he supported and why they were important to him. He always stressed to her how important it was to give back. Little did he realize he was inspiring her to not only be philanthropic but to ultimately seek a career in fundraising. “I always think of my father when I discuss generational philanthropy with fundholders and prospective donors,” said Claudia, CFAAC’s Director of Planned Giving. “Encouraging family to participate in your charitable decisions can encourage subsequent generations to be philanthropic.”

Having children serve jointly as fund advisors or as successor advisors on a Donor Advised Fund is one way to achieve family giving at the Community Foundation. Beyond that, there are a number of ways you can encourage philanthropy through your estate and legacy plans.

The Community Foundation can guide you on how to best achieve your goals through trusts and even something as simple as your will. Establishing an endowed fund allows you to name your fund, designate your charitable assets to specific organizations, and select successor advisors, providing you with the opportunity to pass the gift of family philanthropy on to future generations. CFAAC's knowledgeable staff will partner with you and your family to make sure your legacy is executed as you intend. To discuss your philanthropic legacy contact our Development Department at 410.280.1102 x 102 or via email at Amy@cfaac.org.