Financial Planning

Rebecca W. Jacklin: Whether it’s a foundation, an endowment, or any other nonprofit, most institutions’ challenges have to do with meeting the goals and objectives set forth by their organization.

For instance, some nonprofits may struggle to adhere to spending policy that meets their goals while balancing investments to help them achieve their long-term objectives.

Many nonprofits also have limited internal resources, so their staff is often asked to wear multiple hats. Sometimes, that can lead to them spending more time paying attention to investments than on helping their clients, constituents, and community to drive impact.

Rebecca W. Jacklin: Frequently, the answer is to find the right partner outside the organization who can help. An experienced advisor can help design strategies that support long-term objectives while addressing near-term needs. The same partner could monitor markets and the economy, adjusting portfolios so that the organization doesn’t have to do it all themselves.

Rebecca W. Jacklin: The advisor should be a person or firm who has experience working with similar organizations and can look at decision-making through an institutional lens. Beyond that, look for someone who takes a personalized approach: someone who’ll take the time to understand your institution, its responsibilities, and its goals. I would also suggest looking for an advisor who goes the extra mile and does their own research, to ensure that they’re bringing the organization the best ideas—not just the conventional ones.

Rebecca W. Jacklin: Everything from thoughtful portfolio construction, to policy development, to ongoing monitoring, to clear reporting. The best advisors function as more than just a vendor, but rather as an extension of the institution’s team and a mission-aligned partner.

Rebecca W. Jacklin: Absolutely. Investments require constant attention. By taking responsibility for an investment portfolio, a skilled advisor can remove a substantial burden from an institution’s team, and free them to devote more time to their programs, constituents, and communities. This also offers greater peace of mind.

Rebecca W. Jacklin: Leaders can rest easier knowing that a dedicated advisor is watching the markets, managing risk, and doing whatever they can to help the institution’s mission continue—today and in the future.