Building a Legacy of Family Philanthropy:
Reflections from Our August Tocqueville Conversation
On August 7, Tocqueville Society members gathered at American Family Insurance for a powerful and inspiring conversation on Family Philanthropy. Welcomed by Yasir Kamal, American Family Insurance VP of Communications and Community Engagement, the event provided an opportunity to reflect on how we talk with our families about giving and how United Way can help support strategic, transformational philanthropy.
Meg Prestigiacomo, financial advisor at Baird and United Way Foundation Trustee, offered practical strategies for families to define their philanthropic values. Attendees explored tools like Donor Advised Funds (DAFs), discussed legacy planning and heard personal stories from fellow Tocqueville members including Betsy McClimon of the Wahlin Family Foundation and Kim Herlitzka of Truity Partners.
Throughout the afternoon, Tocqueville members engaged in meaningful conversations about the importance of involving the next generation in giving, the lessons younger family members can teach us and how families can work together to build a legacy of generosity and impact.
If you missed the event, we encourage you to think about the following questions as you approach your own family philanthropy conversations:
- What family traditions with philanthropy have you experienced or carried forward?
- What do you think are important lessons about philanthropy that need to be shared with the next generation?
- What lessons about philanthropy do you think up-and-coming generations can teach?
- What are the biggest challenges and joys surrounding family philanthropy?
Thank you to all who attended and continue to lead with purpose and heart.