Just after Christmas, a longtime advisor reached out to us on behalf of a client—an aging matriarch with a clear philanthropic vision. She wanted to make a meaningful gift before the end of the year, involve her adult children in giving during her lifetime, and create a long-term charitable structure that would continue for generations.
But with only a few business days left in the year and a complex set of assets on the table, she needed a partner who could move quickly and think long-term.
The Challenge
The client owned 100% of several Limited Partnerships and wanted to donate a 5% interest in one of them. That partnership included numerous LLCs holding warehouse properties—assets that raised the possibility of unknown environmental concerns. The gift also involved a Limited Family Partnership structure, which added layers of complexity from both a legal and philanthropic standpoint.
She didn’t want to liquidate or significantly disrupt her business interests. She needed a giving structure that could accommodate complex, illiquid assets and offer meaningful involvement for her children—not just today, but well into the future.
The Solution
We acted immediately.
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We conducted expedited due diligence on the proposed gift.
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We developed a customized Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that included indemnity provisions to address potential environmental remediation.
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We established a Donor Advised Fund (DAF) in the matriarch’s name, with succession planning built in to ensure future generations could carry on her legacy.
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We facilitated a conversation with the family to define their shared philanthropic mission and values.
The Outcome
The gift was completed before year-end, allowing the client to receive an immediate tax deduction. After her passing, the DAF transitioned into an endowed family fund.
Today, her children meet annually to make grants together—honoring her vision and strengthening their connection to one another and to the causes they care about. The Limited Family Partnership interest remains an active part of the fund and continues to support their giving—something many commercial DAFs would not accommodate.
By working closely with advisors, we help deepen client relationships and build structures that carry impact forward for generations.
