About Leverett Philanthropic Advising (LPA)

With over 30 years of experience working in the nonprofit sector, a Harvard education, and a Chartered Advisor in Philanthropy (CAP) designation, I bring many years of both the study and the practice of philanthropy to my clients. My approach is curious and entrepreneurial, with a passion for partnering with individuals and families to overcome barriers to giving, focus on their intended impact, dive into the work, and derive deep personal satisfaction from their philanthropy. 

I also work with Financial Advisors to address the ‘leaky bucket syndrome’ by facilitating multi-generational discussions around philanthropy which create an opportunity for FA’s to engage meaningfully with asset inheritors.

I spent a decade in the foundation world and completed the Hull Fellowship with Philanthropy Southeast.  I have extensive training and practice in effective philanthropy. I am steeped in exempt-organization sector knowledge due to my time as a director at GuideStar (now GuideStar by Candid).

It is my goal to demystify both nonprofit organizations and conversations around giving. It is my professional purpose to move money into the nonprofit sector where it can do good in the world. 

My Professional Designations

• Chartered Advisor in Philanthropy (CAP) from the American College of Finance 
• 21/64 Certified Advisor
• Licensed Consultant, Standards for Excellence Institute Certified to teach and to evaluate nonprofit organizations for the highest standards of ethics, effectiveness, and accountability in the sector.

I am:

• An optimist who sees the best in everyone.
• Mission-driven and committed to the nonprofit sector and all philanthropy can accomplish. 
• Highly collegial, empathetic, enthusiastic.
• Steeped in current trends and social issues in the sector.
• Experienced in vetting nonprofit organizations and grantmaking.
• Connected to institutional foundations enabling clients  to access significant experience and wisdom in their areas of interest.
• Expert in the structure, history, and evolution of the nonprofit sector.
• Experienced speaker, presenter, facilitator, and listener.
• Understanding of DAFs, philanthropy networks and support organizations, and the philanthropic sector overall.
• Able to meet the expectations of high-net-worth individuals.
• Skilled at researching and drafting customized recommendations and progress reports.

Fee Structure

The first hour or two hour conversation is always free. I need to understand the challenges and ambitions you have for your philanthropy. We both need a chance to get to know each other.  I am available by Zoom as well as in-person in most Northeast and Mid-Atlantic markets.

I bill on a project or retainer basis.  If you have an existing donor advised fund or DAF, at times, “reasonable” fees can be allotted for payment from the fund itself. 

Disclaimer:

I do not provide investment or legal advice and/or advice on the charitable giving in regards to tax liability.  I work in conjunction with your current advisors or help you to find ones you like.  I only advise on philanthropy.