"Children of privilege face inherent risks," said Julie Williams Lytle (left), VP and executive director of Philanthropic Services, Whittier Trust Company Philanthropic Services. They are—and feel—"unempowered." Speaking at the 2011 Conference on Philanthropy, on April 29 in Chicago, Lytle said that's why parents ought to "care" about "getting teens involved with giving."
Even the most middle-class teens are in a sometimes difficult-to-navigate area between hormones, separation from parents, trying to do well in school and avoid temptations like drugs, alcohol and sex. But "getting teens involved" can not only "lower substance abuse and pregnancy rates," for children of wealthy parents, according to Lytle, it can help teens whose parents may loom larger than most "mitigate" feelings of inadequacy. Being philanthropic can help a teen feel that there's "'something I can do; through philanthropy I have a big impact. I can change the world; I can make a difference,'" she adds. Getting them involved in giving "brings dignity, honor, pride and self esteem to teens."
Wealth managers may also want to let clients know that there is a "direct correlation between philanthropy and maintaining wealth," Lytle explains, citing the Rockefellers, well-known for their philanthropy, to show how well it can work. The "Rockefellers," she asserts, "have annual family meetings; they are defined by their philanthropy." They are now into their "fifth generation" of philanthropy, and many family members have "private foundations," Lytle added.
'Why Should Advisors Care?'
Lytle counts the ways:
- "70% of intergenerational wealth transfers fail by end of successor generation," Lytle said, because of "poor family communication," or "inadequate preparation."
- "60% intergenerational transfers result in a change of advisor."
- "65% of high-net-worth (HNW) families fear that inheriting wealth will hurt the children" instead of help them.
Advisors who support "clients in raising philanthropic children," Lytle notes, have "a stronger understanding of clients' values and passions." In addition, she says, these advisors "add value in areas clients care deeply about—their kids; develop meaningful relationships with the next generation, and increase chances" that the "next generation becomes your client."
A Conversation With Clients
Lytle said there are six ways wealth managers can help clients get their kids involved in philanthropy from an early age—which also strengthens the bond between the client and wealth manager:
