Large Conference Crowd Means Heavy Traffic for Exhibitors

Family Central is always a hub of activity during a Family Philanthropy Conference. But a variety of special events—including a book signing by CNN anchor Soledad O'Brien and a special exhibit by photographer Elizabeth Jordan—combined with the largest conference crowd in seven years, created more traffic than usual. This, of course, pleased the exhibitors.

This year's event was "exceptional," according to Mary Ann Stover, senior managing director, Foundation Source, Mid-Atlantic. "Many foundation staff and board members stopped by our exhibit, some with a specific question about our services or strategic philanthropy. Others were eager to hear more about the how and why of what we offer. In talking one-on-one with them, it is very clear that they are focused on how to operate in a smart way and how they can make a difference."

Anna Doherty, marketing manager for DonorsChoose.org, also was happy with the heavy traffic among the exhibit booths. Many people initially came by to redeem the $100 DonorsChoose gift cards that all attendees received, but Doherty said she was "thrilled to have the chance to speak with them about our organization and about the important work that their foundations do."

Council members originally were introduced to DonorsChoose.org at last year's fall conference in Charlotte, Doherty explained, and this year's family philanthropy meeting in New York offered an excellent opportunity to expand on those relationships. Doherty said she was especially excited that the Council again set up laptops with Internet access in the DonorsChoose booth because it "really made it easy to give people the complete experience firsthand."

Heather Asher, senior relationship manager for the Family Office Exchange (FOX), had high praise for the conference as well. "I really appreciated being able to meet with many current FOX members who were there as well as to meet new families and thought leaders in the industry," she noted. "The conference topics were engaging, and the speakers were all excellent. We look forward to participating in future Council events."