Philanthropy as Legacy: Giving with Purpose Across Generations

When we think about legacy, our minds often go to what we’re leaving behind—wealth, businesses, heirlooms. But legacy is just as much about how we live as it is about what we leave.

And for many families, philanthropy plays a central role in that story.

Why Philanthropy Matters in Legacy Conversations

Giving isn’t just a transaction—it’s a reflection of our values, our vision for the world, and our sense of responsibility to others. Whether through a foundation, donor-advised fund, or community involvement, philanthropy offers families a unique opportunity to align their wealth with their purpose.

It’s not just about writing checks. It’s about cultivating compassion, leadership, and long-term impact.

For the Leading Generation: Modeling Generosity

If you’re part of the generation currently stewarding your family’s wealth, your philanthropic efforts set the tone. Beyond the financial mechanics of giving, your why matters. Are you involving your children or grandchildren in decision-making? Do they understand the causes you care about—and why you support them?

Leading by example, with transparency and intention, helps build a culture of giving that lasts beyond one lifetime.

For the Rising Generation: Finding Your Giving Identity

For rising gen family members, philanthropy is a powerful way to step into leadership. But it can also bring big questions:

• Do I have to give the same way my parents did?

• How do I find causes that feel authentic to me?

• What if I want to change the way our family gives?

These are not just financial questions—they’re questions about voice, identity, and agency. We encourage rising gen leaders to explore their own philanthropic values, experiment with giving models, and engage in honest conversations with their family about what matters most.

Bridging the Gap: Giving as a Shared Practice

Philanthropy is also a place where generations can meet in the middle. Joint giving projects, family foundations, and structured decision-making processes can bring families closer—when approached with curiosity and mutual respect.

The key? Avoid turning it into a checklist. Make it a dialogue. What does impact look like for your family? Who gets a say? How do you want to be remembered—not just for what you had, but what you gave?

Start Here

If your family is exploring the role of philanthropy in your legacy, here are three starting points:

1. Talk About Giving – Share stories of generosity from your family history or recent experiences.

2. Explore Values – Each family member writes down their top 3 causes or values, then compares.

3. Get Practical – Create a family giving plan for one initiative this year. Keep it simple and collaborative.

At In Three Generations, we believe giving is one of the most meaningful and complex expressions. Whether you're just starting the conversation or deep in philanthropic work, we’re here to help you align your giving with the legacy you hope to leave.