What's Happening?
The Jewish Community Foundation of Montreal is addressing the evolving landscape of philanthropy as younger generations, particularly Millennials and Gen Z, shift their focus towards social justice causes
such as mental health, racial equity, and climate change. According to the 2025 Next Generation of Philanthropy report by Indiana University Lilly Family School of Philanthropy, these younger donors prefer grassroots organizations and peer-led initiatives over traditional religious giving. They are also more inclined to use digital tools for their charitable activities, seeking transparency and tangible impacts from their contributions. The Foundation is actively engaging families to bridge generational gaps in philanthropy, encouraging discussions about shared values and philanthropic intent.
Why It's Important?
This shift in philanthropic priorities among younger generations signifies a broader change in societal values and the way charitable giving is approached. As Millennials and Gen Z prioritize causes that align with their personal values, traditional institutions may need to adapt to remain relevant. The emphasis on transparency and tangible impact could lead to increased accountability and innovation within the philanthropic sector. Organizations that successfully engage these younger donors stand to benefit from their enthusiasm and commitment to social justice, potentially leading to more effective and impactful charitable initiatives.
What's Next?
The Jewish Community Foundation is implementing initiatives to involve younger family members in philanthropy, such as naming them as successor advisors in Donor-Advised Funds and facilitating family discussions on values-based giving. These efforts aim to ensure continuity in philanthropic activities and foster a culture of giving across generations. As younger donors continue to influence the philanthropic landscape, organizations may need to further adapt their strategies to meet the expectations of transparency and impact demanded by these new philanthropists.
Beyond the Headlines
The generational shift in philanthropy reflects broader societal changes, including the increasing importance of social justice and digital engagement. This trend may lead to a reevaluation of traditional philanthropic models and encourage more inclusive and diverse approaches to charitable giving. The focus on grassroots initiatives and peer-led movements could empower communities and drive systemic change, challenging established norms and fostering a more equitable distribution of resources.
