Women are now more financially successful—with more accumulated wealth—than ever before. They’re taking charge of personal and family giving, and they’re shaping how wealth is transformed into philanthropy. Studies suggest that women are more likely than men to engage in behavior intended to benefit others, such as philanthropic giving.
Women now control more than half the private wealth in the U.S. and make 80 percent of all purchases. According to financial projections from Boston College’s Center on Wealth and Philanthropy, women will inherit 70 percent of the $41 trillion in intergenerational wealth transfer expected over the next 40 years. As women control more wealth, they will change the face of philanthropy.
As you assess the impact you want to make, the chart below can help:
| Values | What is important to you and has guided your philanthropic decisions? |
| Impact | What impact do you want your giving to make? |
| Legacy | Would you like your philanthropy to create a personal or family legacy? |
| Assets | What are your current and future financial obligations? How are you defining your discretionary wealth? Will your assets be taxed if passed to heirs? If so, could these further your philanthropic goals by transferring them to St. Lawrence? |
| Recognition | Your giving can inspire others to support the charities that are important to you. Do you want your name attached to your philanthropy or would you prefer to remain anonymous? |
| Advisors | Which of your professional advisors should be part of your decision-making process? |
Whether giving a modest or transformational amount, your philanthropy will make an impact on organizations that align with your values and priorities. We can help you make sure it’s the impact you desire.