Rockefeller Philanthropy Advisors

When a donor comes to Rockefeller Philanthropy Advisors, he or she is not signing on for simply disbursement of philanthropic monies. Our reputation is built on collaboration, developing solutions with and for clients for any kind of philanthropic activity. Our approach begins with lengthy discussions with the donor and if appropriate, family members, to determine the motivations and values behind, and visions for, the funds to be designated for philanthropy.

Once we’ve identified those key elements, any combinations of strategies might be employed to advance the giving plan to the next step, and assist in its evolution over the coming months and years. These could include:

Research and preparation of briefing papers on areas of concern to the donor (e.g., issues affecting a specific indigenous people) to map out the background, pressing and emerging issues; appropriate possible funding opportunities; and potential next steps for the donor.

Facilitating a Family Philanthropy Retreat in which multiple members and/or generations of a donor family come together and, through workshops and discussion sessions, review how philanthropy has been handled in the past, which areas or activities are of most interest to different family members, how best to structure a program that addresses these interests and generates the greatest possible impact.

Developing a customized giving program, which includes guidelines and strategies for each distinct area of giving, designating size and timing of gifts to specific organizations. These guidelines are an important tool for maintaining program focus and establishing clear communications with grantseekers.

Starting and operating a foundation or trust, which can range from offering stand-alone start-up advisement and preparing a plan for foundation operations to developing and monitoring grantmaking budgets and managing all day-to-day operations. From serving as professional staff, communicating with grantees to coordination with legal, tax and financial advisors and authorities.

Monitoring beneficiary activities and gauging impact of giving, whether that is number of books purchased, children fed, jobs created or fields reclaimed for farming.

Preparing customized annual reports, which are designed to help clients see the full range of their grantmaking activities and assess their progress toward achieving desired outcomes. Reports can be as straightforward or detailed as each donor requests.

Hosting periodic donor briefings, open to current and prospective clients and their financial and legal advisors. These briefings can focus on a specific pressing or emerging issue (e.g., venture philanthropy; assisting women in the Middle East) and involve a panel of experts to present an issue, possible solutions, and take questions from attendees.