Activating your personal giving plan

The Community Foundation recently hosted discussion with Next Gen Philanthropic Initiative graduates about what it means to activate a thoughtful giving plan—one rooted in values, guided by a mission, and designed to make a lasting difference. 

The conversation, moderated by Community Foundation Executive Vice President & COO Sutton Mora, included panelists Alison Henneberger (Senior Vice President, Diversified Trust and Chartered Advisor in Philanthropy®), Chad Roberts (Attorney, Harris Shelton and Next Gen program graduate), and Kaleb Tilton (Chief Financial Officer, River Street Management, LLC and Next Gen program graduate).

They shared timely updates on changes to tax law and charitable giving incentives, including provisions in the new One Big Beautiful Bill, and reflected on how both individuals and institutions are adapting. 

Just as the Community Foundation responded with a new round of flexible Responsive Grants, attendees were encouraged to consider their own strategies: 

• establishing an annual philanthropic “bucket” and being intentional about how it is allocated,
• creating or revisiting estate plans,
• and communicating openly with advisors and family members about charitable giving and your wishes.

At its heart, the conversation underscored that values remain constant, even as the landscape of philanthropy evolves. Giving is not only about writing checks, but about living generously with time, talent, treasure, and ties—and inviting the next generation into that journey. Whether through intentional conversations with children, seeing nonprofits in action firsthand, or simply taking the first step toward a personal mission statement, donors can shape a giving plan that reflects who they are and what they hope to leave behind. 

In a moment when challenges can feel overwhelming, the clear takeaway was this: every person has the power to do something meaningful, and when aligned with purpose, generosity creates ripples of impact that extend far beyond the present.

The next Next Gen Philanthropic Initiative cohort offering will be in fall 2026. Email Managing Director of Philanthropic Services Caroline Kuebler or call her at (901) 722-0036 to learn more.

We offer fund holders personalized services to help you fulfill your charitable goals: researching nonprofits, organizing site visits, or facilitating the creation of family mission statements and giving plans. Take advantage of concierge services from Philanthropic Services team members who are Chartered Advisors in Philanthropy® or 21/64 Certified Advisors, trained to help donors make more strategic decisions through an understanding of their identity and values. Email Director of Donor Services Frances Tortorich or call her at (901) 722-0031 or email Director of Donor Services Amy Beth Dudley or call her at (901) 722-0038.