From Giving to Philanthropy: A Q&A with the Kleckner Family Fund

Philanthropy binds families together and challenges them to think bigger than themselves. The Center for Family Philanthropy features state-of-the-art, multigenerational philanthropic services, including education, community needs assessments, and grantmaking expertise.

David and Joanna Kleckner knew they wanted to be more intentional with their philanthropy. Initially, they participated in "Growing Goodness", an exercise that walks families through the best practices to raise giving children. After some discussion, they planned an intergenerational meeting with the family and Karen Hrdlicka, director of The Center for Family Philanthropy, to talk about interests and values that could be reflected in the family's philanthropy.

Identifying values can be a difficult task, so Hrdlicka used prompts like, "What makes your heart happy?" and "What breaks your heart?". The Kleckners' eldest daughter assisted Karen in synthesizing the family's interests and values, and based on those results, Karen brought the family on site visits to learn more about nonprofits that met their shared interests and values.

Recently, David Kleckner was accepted into the next cohort of the Institute for Emerging Philanthropists. Below, he answers questions about how he and his family utilize The Center for Family Philanthropy and his journey to joining the class.

What enticed you and your wife Joanna to become fundholders at Akron Community Foundation?

We could have set up a donor-advised fund in many places. What sets Akron Community Foundation apart is the various ways they help to engage our three school-age children in the giving discussion.

You and Joanna were very interested in involving your whole family in your philanthropic endeavors. Why was this important to you?

First, "To whom much is given, much is required." Joanna and I felt the weight of a blessed life and an obligation to pass it on intentionally. Also, our family giving strategy had unintentionally eroded to the level of me making all of the decisions, and those decisions centered around money. We knew we could do better, but we weren't sure how.

You involved your children, Austin, Allison and Andrew, in a family meeting. How did that meeting springboard a more robust family action plan around philanthropy?

Karen Hrdlicka skillfully facilitated a session that drew out each of our family members' thoughts. The conversation went far beyond money. We clarified our values, and discussed how we give our Time, Talent, Treasure and Ties. She moved us from giving to philanthropy.

You were recently announced as part of our next cohort of Emerging Philanthropists. Why did you decide to apply for the program?

We have been all over the world and could have planted roots anywhere, but chose to stay in Akron. The Emerging Philanthropists class is an opportunity to grow with like-minded people who love Akron and want to move our community forward.

What advice would you give other fundholders on engaging with The Center for Family Philanthropy's services?

Just make the call to The Center for Family Philanthropy. It's a win for you, the causes your family believes in, and our region. Just the other day, our teen daughter opened up about how she wants to volunteer at one of our favorite organizations. That conversation wouldn't have happened without Akron Community Foundation as the catalyst.

Get Involved with The Center for Family Philanthropy

Wherever you are on your charitable journey, The Center for Family Philanthropy can be a valuable resource. Contact Karen Hrdlicka to learn more about how we can help you create a meaningful legacy and make a lasting impact on the next generation.