Foundation Source has laid out why "summer downtime" is the perfect time for foundation members to think about their philanthropic goals and the logistics behind achieving them.

With foundation giving generally at its lowest level around the month of August, now is the ideal time to review strategies, Foundation Source recommends.

“Members of family foundations are typically dispersed throughout the country, so they may not meet in person until Thanksgiving,” said Page Snow, chief philanthropic officer.

“That doesn’t allow enough time before December 31 to do much more than issue a flurry of grants to meet the foundation’s annual distribution requirement. By taking advantage of the August lull, board members can be more proactive and plan ahead to effectively advance their philanthropic goals,” Snow said.

Philanthropic directors John Oddy and Elizabeth Wong believe the following are among the main areas clients should focus on this summer when looking to develop their foundation and prepare for the busy giving season ahead:

• Deepen knowledge;
• Carry out due diligence for grantees;
• Cultivate your board;
• Focus on compliance;
• Reflect on the strategic direction of the foundation; and
• Be active with giving, even during the quiet season.