In French, the word niveau means “level”—a word that takes on many dimensions in my approach to philanthropy. Whether leveling with our partners at non-profit organizations or leveling up the methods through which we provide funding, my work invites wealth holders to reconsider the rigid structures that have traditionally defined the world of giving.
In my coaching for rising philanthropists, I help clients to develop trust-based practices that better align their interests with the operational needs of non-profit organizations. This relationship-driven approach necessarily requires a deeper level of investment (beyond financial support), yet it also yields meaningful returns in the form of honest, transparent communication with industry leaders and subject matter experts.
If you’re curious to discover how you can challenge longstanding norms and cultivate a more personal, values-aligned portfolio of investments, I’d love to chat.
The Niveau Approach
A shift from giving to investing.
When we move from a transactional mindset to building partnerships, we naturally bring a different level of curiosity and conversation to our relationships with non-profit teams. Rather than simply funding their work, we can take an active role in ensuring their future success.
An emphasis on trust and transparency.
The teams at non-profits have dedicated their lives to understanding a certain issue or serving a specific community. When we respect their expertise and provide flexible, long-term support for their operational needs, our donations often have an even greater impact.
An empowering sense of community.
Only a handful of solo actors have the capital or the influence to move the needle on their own. For most philanthropists, working together dramatically increases the probability of success, in addition to building a network of likeminded donors, advocates and activists.
“Madeline is an exceptional leader because she is not afraid to ask questions and is curious to understand the core of any challenging situation.”
Joshua Silberstein,
Social Venture Partners Boulder County