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This is thoughtful philanthropy for a complex world, grounded in experience, guided by shared values and designed to endure across generations.

Our Services

Proudly serving families and private foundations

01.

Values Discovery and Alignment

This work helps families articulate the principles that guide their lives and decisions, individually and collectively. Through guided conversations and field-tested tools, we help families name what truly matters, identify areas of alignment or tension and create a shared foundation that informs future philanthropic choices.

02.

Philanthropic Visioning and Strategy Development

We work with families to translate values into a clear philanthropic vision and strategic focus. This includes defining purpose, priority areas and desired outcomes, ensuring that giving is intentional rather than reactive, and aligning action with the family’s broader goals and capacity.

03.

Next-Generation Engagement and Education

Engaging rising generations requires more than invitations to meetings. We help families create meaningful entry points for younger members, building confidence, understanding, and ownership over time, so philanthropy becomes a shared responsibility rather than an inherited obligation.

04.

Governance Structures and Decision-Making Models

Effective philanthropy depends on clear processes and shared understanding. We help families design governance structures and decision-making models that align with their values and recognize their complexity, supporting healthy dialogue, transparency and continuity across generations.

05.

Grantmaking Guidance and Portfolio Design

True North supports families in selecting nonprofit partners and structuring grantmaking portfolios that reflect values and prioritize impact. We help families move beyond transactional giving toward deeper, more thoughtful engagement that balances trust, outcomes and learning.

06.

Purposeful Nonprofit Collaboration

Meaningful impact often depends on strong, well-defined partnerships with nonprofit organizations. We help families frame clear expectations for their charitable relationships, clarifying purpose, roles and mutual accountability.

Ready to clarify your giving?

Effective philanthropy doesn’t start with answers. It starts with the right conversations. Connect with Steve today.