
Photo courtesy of 
Neohumanism: A Documentary Film Project
The Transformative Power of Giving as a Family
Engaging in philanthropy as a family offers something rare in our busy lives: an opportunity for families to gather around shared purpose and reflect on what truly matters. When families engage together in legacy planning to support Neohumanist College of Asheville, they create space for meaningful conversations that can strengthen bonds across generations while simultaneously practicing the very principles the college was founded upon.
When we give as a family to support Neohumanist education, we transform an abstract philosophy into lived experience. Our family becomes a classroom where we practice extending our sense of "we" from our household to the human family and beyond. This is precisely what Neohumanist College teaches its students: to expand the horizons of their hearts and minds, recognizing the interconnectedness of all beings.
When you set the intention to involve your family in your philanthropic journey to Neohumanist College of Asheville, you are ushering in:
Common Purpose and Shared Values
Planning a legacy gift invites family members to explore together what you stand for as individuals and as a family. What values do you hope will outlive you? What impact do you want to make? These conversations help families articulate and align around a shared vision that can guide not just your philanthropy, but your family's direction for years to come. By supporting an institution dedicated to planetary cooperation and the welfare of all, your family practices translating love into action on behalf of the larger human family.
Every Voice Matters
Charitable giving discussions create a natural forum where each family member, from youngest to oldest, can share their perspectives, dreams, and concerns. Young adults bring fresh insights about education and social change. Elders offer wisdom and historical perspective. When structured thoughtfully, these conversations ensure that everyone feels heard and valued, strengthening the family fabric. In supporting the college, families model the very inclusivity and respect for diverse perspectives that Neohumanist education nurtures.
Understanding Across Generations
Money, education, and opportunity often carry complex family histories. Some of us inherited privilege, others overcame severe scarcity. Some families carry stories of struggle, oppression, displacement, perpetration, or lost opportunities. Engaging in philanthropy together can create a safe space to acknowledge these histories, understand their impact on different generations, and consciously choose how your family will move forward. This process can be deeply healing, transforming old patterns into new possibilities.
Building Financial Literacy and Responsibility
Sitting down with the different options of giving is a way to foster financial stewardship, while learning together about the technical aspects of charitable giving. These are invaluable lessons that empower the next generation to make informed decisions about their own resources and values.
Resources for Family Giving
Creating Space for Conversation
When families or communities come together to discuss planned giving, the process itself can be as meaningful as the outcome. Here are a few principles that can help create a constructive space:
Start with curiosity, not conclusions. Approach the conversation as an exploration rather than a decision-making meeting. What values do different people hold? What does each person hope for in the future?
Welcome all perspectives. Each person's experience and viewpoint has validity. Younger and older generations, those with different life experiences. All voices enrich the conversation.
Acknowledge what is. Families carry complex histories around money, education, and opportunity. Creating space to recognize these realities, without judgment, can allow for deeper understanding and opportunity for healing.
Take your time. Meaningful conversations unfold over multiple gatherings. There's no rush to reach consensus.
Consider a facilitator. For some families, having a neutral person guide the conversation can help everyone feel heard and keep discussions productive.
Questions to Explore Together
If you're gathering family or community to discuss planned giving, these questions might spark meaningful reflection:
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What values are most important to us as a family/community? 
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What impact do we hope to have on the world beyond our own lives? 
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What role has education played in our family story? 
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What do we want future generations to know about what mattered to us? 
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How can our giving reflect our deepest commitments? 
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What would it mean to align our resources with our values? 

Photo courtesy of Neohumanism:
A Documentary Film Project
Professional Resources & Organizations

Photo courtesy of Neohumanism:
A Documentary Film Project
We encourage you to explore resources from organizations that specialize in family philanthropy and values-based giving:
National Center for Family Philanthropy
Provides resources, research, and guidance for families engaged in organized philanthropy, including multi-generational giving and family foundation management.
The Philanthropic Initiative (TPI)
A nonprofit consulting firm that helps individuals, families, and foundations develop and implement effective philanthropic strategies. They offer resources on family giving and values-based philanthropy.
Working with Professional Advisors
Professional philanthropic advisors can be valuable partners in clarifying your giving intentions and developing strategies that align with your values. These advisors specialize in helping individuals and families think holistically about their philanthropy, not just the mechanics of giving, but the deeper questions of purpose, impact, and legacy. They can facilitate family conversations, help you articulate your philanthropic vision, connect you with causes that match your values, and design giving strategies that span generations. Many work independently or through organizations dedicated to values-based philanthropy.
Family Dynamics & Intergenerational Healing
When seeking support for family dynamics and intergenerational healing, look for professionals who are specifically trained in systemic approaches and trauma-informed care.
Estate planning attorneys, financial advisor, or accountant can provide essential guidance on the practical and tax aspects of planned giving. They cover areas such as:
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Various planned giving vehicles (bequests, charitable trusts, gift annuities, etc.) 
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Tax implications and benefits 
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How planned giving fits into your overall estate plan 
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Structuring gifts to achieve your specific goals 
We encourage you to consult with your professional advisors as you explore planned giving options.

Next Steps
However you choose to approach planned giving—individually, with family, or with community—we're here to answer questions and discuss how your gift might support Neohumanist College of Asheville's mission.
Please fill contact us form to continue the conversation. We're honored to support you on this journey.
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