Family Central is the hub of activity and the center of the Family Philanthropy Conference. You’ll see all of our exhibitors there, and you’ll have many opportunities to network with colleagues from the world of family philanthropy. Here’s what you’ll find in Family Central:

• Book Signings

  Get books signed by the author.

  • Soledad O'Brien - The Next Big Story: My Journey Through the Land of Possibilities - Sunday, January 23, 3 p.m.
  • Nathan Dungan - Money Sanity Solutions: From Allowance to Independence - Monday, January 24, 4:30 p.m.

• Cocktail Reception featuring Elizabeth Jordan

  Family philanthropist and photographer Elizabeth Jordan will be our honored guest for the Monday Afternoon Reception (5– 6:30 p.m.) in Family Central. After an introduction by Doug Mellinger, vice chairman and co-founder of Foundation Source, Jordan will speak about how she used her art to raise awareness of the plight of people living in countries such as Haiti and Rwanda that face extreme challenges. Her work highlights projects—through imagery—that evoke social change in communities all over the world. Jordan’s photography will be on display in Family Central.

• Connections Café

  Meet your peers at this comfortable space for casual conversation. You’ll find seating, beverages, snacks, and ample space for connecting with fellow conference attendees.

• Council on Foundations Booth

  Here you can browse our bookstore and learn more about the latest programs and member services available to you.

• Cyber Café

  Check your e-mail or use the Internet to follow up on topics that were mentioned in a conference session.

• Lawyers Are In

  Gain expert advice from the Council’s legal team about the perplexing questions that keep you awake at night. Sign up for free consultation at the conference registration desk.

• The Consultants Are In

  Have a pressing grantmaking question? Gain expert advice from the National Network of Consultants to Grantmakers. Pro bono and confidential, 20-minute mini-consulting sessions are available to all conference participants. Sign up at the Registration Desk.

• Family Message Board

  Trying to reach someone at the conference and don’t know how? Leave a note on the conference message board. You can also post your most memorable family stories, traditions, pictures, as well as any challenges your foundation faces that you would like feedback on.

• Next Gen Lounge

  Sponsored by 21/64 and The Andrea and Charles Bronfman Philanthropies, the Next Gen Lounge is:
  • Information central for next-generation programming at the conference and beyond. Come talk with next-generation funders and learn about resources on next-generation and multigenerational philanthropy to take home and use with your families, foundations, donor advised funds, and other family enterprises.
  • An informal area for conference attendees of all ages to meet and engage in conversations and interactive exercises, such as identifying the values that motivate your philanthropy, how to communicate your legacy to your next-generation peers, and how to engage multiple generations in family philanthropy at the same time.
  • A place with free “office hours”—complimentary consultations with certified 21/64 consultants and Resource Generation staff to explore how to engage next-generation family members and trustees in your foundation. Emerging Practitioners in Philanthropy will also be available to dispense advice on how to engage next-generation professionals in your foundation.