One of the most rewarding aspects of setting up a Private Ancillary Fund (PAF) is the opportunity to involve your family in giving. Beyond the financial benefits, a PAF creates space for shared values, long-term impact, and meaningful conversations across generations.
Why Involve Your Family?
Philanthropy can be a powerful way to bring families together. Involving your children or other family members in your PAF encourages:
- Shared purpose – Align around causes that matter to you as a family
- Stronger relationships – Collaborate and communicate regularly through giving decisions
- Education and values – Help the next generation develop awareness, empathy, and financial responsibility
Private auxiliary finds can be a living legacy that reflects your family’s commitment to making a difference.
How Can Family Members Participate?
There are many ways to involve family members, depending on their age and interests:
- Board or trustee roles – Adults can take on formal responsibilities in governance and grantmaking
- Grant decision-making – Invite family members to help select charities and review applications
- Research and site visits – Encourage younger family members to research causes and attend meetings or visits with charitable organisations
- Vision and strategy – Collaborate on the fund’s long-term mission and areas of focus
Children and teens can be involved too—by learning about causes, making small giving decisions, or joining discussions as they mature.
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Tips for Engaging Your Family
To make the most of family involvement:
- Hold regular family meetings to discuss goals, review grants, and plan ahead
- Rotate responsibilities so everyone can contribute in different ways
- Encourage personal input—let each family member nominate a cause they care about
- Establish shared values or a mission statement to guide your giving decisions
Building a Giving Legacy
A well-managed PAF can span generations. Involving your family ensures your philanthropic intentions continue well into the future, shaped and sustained by those you care about most. With the right structure and support, your fund can become a cornerstone of your family’s legacy.
