The holidays often inspire a spirit of giving and gratitude. Giving together this season can unite your family across generation, geography and life circumstances.

Family philanthropy involves engaging members of all ages in support of charitable causes—whether financially or by volunteering together. Having intentional conversations about philanthropy allows families to express shared values and link them to specific causes, creating greater connection and a tradition of active community engagement.

At the North Carolina Community Foundation, we work with families — like the Smith family of Duplin County (pictured above) — to develop legacies of giving that create stronger communities for generations to come.

Whether you’re just getting started or your family are seasoned givers, here are tips for engaging in meaningful conversations about your family’s philanthropy this holiday season.

• Start small – use casual face-to-face time to engage in conversation. What are your core family values and beliefs? An open conversation about the things your family holds true can help ground your philanthropic efforts.
• Share stories and memories about the giving traditions of older generations. Storytelling gives younger family members role models and examples to emulate and make their own. In turn, the impressions and feedback of younger members improves overall understanding and appreciation.
• Discuss giving goals and different ways to provide support. Encourage everyone to think about how they would like to contribute. This helps family members recognize that philanthropy of all sizes makes a difference and supports overall charitable goals and strategy.
• Explore causes together. Research organizations and discuss missions, impact and activities together. Involving everyone helps teach younger members of the family about effective giving. If you need inspiration, reach out to your Donor Engagement Officer.

This season, create a new holiday tradition or simply bond over common purpose at the dinner table as you work to make a positive difference in the world. Establish a family tradition that extends includes a broader sense of purpose and community engagement, and you can foster a culture of giving within your family while teaching empathy and social responsibility.