Greater Houston Community Foundation offers next generation engagement to future donors who have a deep desire to develop their skills around strategic philanthropy and community engagement. Our goal is to help the next generation build bridges and connect them to other donors, foundations, nonprofits, corporations, and partners — preparing you to carry on a philanthropic legacy or to create one of your own. Learn more about our Next Gen programs in our case study.
Next Generation Donors Making a Difference
“Greater Houston Community Foundation has been an incredible supporter of my development in this space [philanthropy]. The Next Gen Donor Institute helped endow me with the skills to educate others on personal giving plans, donor advised funds, and many additional tools but also provided me with a peer community where I can discuss and learn from the experience of others. I feel knowledgeable and purposeful about my philanthropy and feel equipped with a healthy lens to vet new organizations or opportunities to contribute. I think the Issue Area learning series is a wonderful avenue to bring donors together to discuss topics that are relevant to our personal or professional philanthropy. I am fortunate that I have these advisors [at Greater Houston Community Foundation] who are prepared to guide me when I am navigating a new area of interest or have a question about my giving plans.”
“I cannot say enough good things about the Next Gen Giving Circle and the wonderful people I’ve met as a part of that group. From learning about the different problems facing our city, to evaluating grants, to going on site visits with individual philanthropies, it is truly one of a kind.”
“Philanthropy is becoming much more strategic, and in order to actually be strategic, I need to be surrounded by people who know what they’re doing. Being a good board member, being a good philanthropist, being informed, staying on top of all that’s happening in terms of taxes and estates, and policy… is really important to me. That’s why I believe Greater Houston Community Foundation plays such a critical role in Houston, in informing the next generation and teaching them and partnering with us.”
“When I started, I wanted to learn how to be a proactive giver… to learn how to evaluate organizations, know that my contributions are being effective, and make sure I was giving in a strategic way. I love that the program creates a safe space for like-minded donors to share experiences and learn from one another. I’ve just built really great relationships here.”
Lacey Fluor Goossen (Next Gen Almuna - 2013, Greater Houston Community Foundation Board Member)
“For me, the biggest takeaway from the program and my experience are the great connections I have with folks that I wouldn’t normally encounter, and the great discussions and fellowship we’ve had over philanthropy. And really, peers challenging me and opening my eyes to different causes and needs”
Chris Weekley (Next Gen Alumni - 2011, Governing Board Chair)
How Greater Houston Community Foundation Supports Emerging Philanthropic Leaders
The Next Gen resources offered by Greater Houston Community Foundation have developed a deeply committed cohort of Houston influencers who are and will be future leaders directing business and civic initiatives throughout our region. From involvement in the Next Gen Donor Institute to sparking impactful change through our Next Gen Giving Circles, we are here to create meaningful collaborations for the betterment of our community.
Next Gen Donor Institute
Greater Houston Community Foundation’s The Next Gen Donor Institute is a program for donors who wish to develop a deeper understanding of their philanthropic journey and learn from their peers and community leaders about philanthropic trends and possibilities. Throughout our year-long program, you gain access to an extensive network of Next Gen donors all aiming to develop a greater culture of altruism within our community.
Next Gen Alumni Network
Upon completion of Greater Houston Community Foundation’s Next Gen Donor Institute, you will become a member of our Next Gen Alumni Network. Over the years, we have established an extensive network of over 100 Next Gen donors who are committed to supporting one another’s personal and philanthropic growth. Activities include social and educational events.
Next Gen Giving Circle
The Giving Circle serves as a forum for aspiring Houston philanthropists to explore, develop, and implement the tools of strategic giving. Each year, Giving Circle members collectively decide to focus on one area of need in the Greater Houston area, solicit for and examine grant applications, perform site visits to grant semi-finalists, and ultimately select one or more organizations to support.