Unique challenges.

DVG understands the unique complexities and challenges of operating a family foundation, and we are here to offer you the guidance, tools and training you need to make your foundation's philanthropy meaningful and effective. We are proud that nearly one-third of our membership comprises family foundations, many of whom have been with us since our founding more than 20 years ago.

Special benefits we offer family foundations:

• Family Philanthropy Online. Offered through our partnership with the National Center on Family Philanthropy, this service gives you access to an online knowledge center available 24/7, as well as monthly teleconferences with national leaders and experts addressing a wide variety of topics of special interest your family's philanthropy.
  
• Fundamentals of Smart Grantmaking. Our six-part workshop series offers your foundation staff and trustees the knowledge and skills you need to navigate the grantmaking process and be savvy donors.
  
• Special speakers. On our own, or in partnership with organizations such as the Association for Small Foundations or Glenmede, DVG presents expert speakers on inter-generational issues and other topics that matter most to you. Recent speakers have included Charles Collier and Sharna Goldseker.

Testimonials

"DVG is an important source of information and professional networking. The Lenfest Foundation operates on a small family business model and our staff has benefited greatly from interacting with peers through the many programs and opportunities offered by DVG.”  -- H. F. (Gerry) Lenfest Chairman of the Board The Lenfest Foundation

"DVG continuously offers our staff and Board valuable educational opportunities, as well as a forum to network with other regional foundations -- those with both similar and very different size and structure to our organization.” -- Larry Genuardi President Genuardi Family Foundation

"The L.W. Pierce Family Foundation has been a member of DVG for several years. The numerous resources available to its members are outstanding …from the many events, programs, newsletters, email updates, etc., DVG makes sure to keep their members up to date in this ever changing world of philanthropy. The partnership between DVG and the L.W. Pierce Family Foundation is one that we plan on keeping for a very long time.” -- Ms. Constance Buckley President and Trustee L.W. Pierce Family Foundation

"DVG offers family foundations a wealth of information and insight about best practices in foundation management. As the world in which family foundations function grows more complex, issues such as governance, financial management, and strategic and succession planning require greater focus and accountability. DVG’s extensive network of resources provides invaluable assistance to family foundations in navigating these challenging times and charting an effective course for the future. Whether it is access to some of the country’s most notable experts or family foundation colleagues facing similar challenges, DVG is an indispensable link to knowledge that nurtures informed decision-making. Membership in DVG is both good value and a wise investment.” -- Priscilla M. Luce President The Albert M. Greenfield Foundation