Dear Reader,

As we celebrate the holidays and close out 2024, we are grateful to our GPA community. You inspire us with your generosity, curiosity and courage to take risks with your philanthropy. We feel fortunate to be part of our clients' philanthropic journeys day in and day out.

As you gather with your families, please share stories about your philanthropic work in the community, your life experiences that have shaped your values and what inspires your generosity. You are planting seeds for future philanthropists!

How Do I Motivate My Kids to Engage in Philanthropy?

Our role in raising kind, empathetic kids today has never been harder. As parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, teachers, mentors, it can be a challenge to pull a kid outside of themselves to build understanding of the outside world. 

We, at GPA, are of the mind that it is never too early to start building muscles of generosity and empathy in kids. When I was in first grade, we adopted a family during the holidays. I still remember the children’s names, ages and their Santa lists. It had a profound impact on me and the importance of sharing with others. 

Small, meaningful gestures and conversations instill lifelong habits of compassion, empathy and generosity.  Modeling behaviors, reading books and regular conversations centered around community are a great place to start.

Client Spotlight

We're honored to share the open position of Program Director on behalf of The Frist Foundation. The GPA team is partnering with the Nashville-based foundation to place the Program Director position. The Program Director position is a new addition to the Foundation team and will serve in a critical role supporting the Foundation’s core grantmaking function. 

Please be in touch if you would like to learn more.

What We've Been Up To

What's Inspiring Us

Holiday Giving

A Holiday Gift Guide of Nonprofits Worthy of a Donation - MSNBC (6 minute listen)

We always enjoy reviewing Nicholas Kristof of The New York Times annual gift guide where he highlights worthy and effective causes to direct charitable support. This year's list includes national and international groups that he deems as changing the world and helping others in profound ways. We were excited to see Reach Out and Read highlighted. Several of our clients support their work in the Carolinas.

Inspiring Climate Reads

What if We Get it Right: Visions of Climate Futures by Ayana Elizabeth Johnson

Johnson's book captures a series of interviews where she helps readers reframe the climate crisis and reimagine how we live, work, and relate to the planet. It's a must-read for anyone who wants to understand the intersection of climate, justice, and equity, and is looking for a hopeful, action-oriented approach to the future. Johnson’s message is clear: We can get it right—but we have to act with intention, unity, and a sense of urgency.

Women Paving the Way

How The Rise of Women-Led Giving Is Changing Philanthropy - Forbes (5 minute read)

Melinda French Gates proclaimed, "When we invest in women, we invest in the future.” Gates' words have never been more relevant, as women are increasingly leading the charge in philanthropy with an approach rooted in empathy, collaboration and long-term impact. With more women stepping into leadership roles, they are not just donors but architects of change, proving that when women drive in philanthropy, the world is better for it.

Holiday Cocktail Recipe

Let's raise a glass to philanthropy! One of our clients shared this lovely libation with us and we are, in turn, sharing it with you!

The Giving Tree is ready in just a few minutes. Cheers to a generous spirit!

Wishing you and your families happy holidays! We look forward to continuing our impactful work together in the New Year.



Gratefully,

Kaky + The GPA Team