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  • Singapore Gives — But Not Always: Here’s Why | Daylighthttps://daylightadvisors.wixsite.com/daylightadvisors/daylight-in-practice/singapore-gives-but-not-always-heres-why

    Singapore Gives — But Not Always: Here’s Why Singapore Gives — But Not Always: Here’s Why By Dien Yuen Earlier this month, I completed a training on philanthropy and social impact with a group of learners from Singapore’s wealth management and nonprofit sectors. As part of the session, we explored why people in Singapore choose to give, and why they sometimes hold back. Why People Give Six key themes emerged as we discussed why people in Singapore give. Generosity here extends far beyond charity - it is an expression of purpose, identity, and legacy. 1. Altruism & Social Impact The dominant motivation centers on helping others and improving the world. People give to multiply goodness, pay it forward, help underprivileged communities, and to uplift others. The responses reflect a deep-seated belief in social responsibility and the transformative power of collective good — giving as a means to create positive change. 2. Financial & Pragmatic Factors A secondary cluster focuses on strategic or rational benefits: tax deductions and reductions, corporate branding, and funding innovation. Here, giving is seen as both smart and impactful — aligning philanthropy with business or financial stewardship. 3. Legacy & Family Values Many view giving as an act of legacy — teaching children, honoring loved ones, or to instill good values for the next generation. This cluster highlights intergenerational philanthropy, where giving becomes a way to pass on moral and social capital. 4. Personal Fulfillment & Meaning For some, giving fulfills a personal or emotional need: feeling grateful, finding purpose, or feeding the soul. 5. Religious & Spiritual Roots Faith-based reasons, such as afterlife blessings , karma , or emptying for regeneration, play a meaningful role, underscoring how religion anchors generosity in moral duty and divine reciprocity. 6. Cultural & Moral Influences Some respondents connect giving to upbringing, tradition, or cultural expectation, especially within Asian or collectivist contexts — giving as a reflection of who we are raised to be: part of Asian culture , custodian for the future , or social theories of reciprocity and gift exchange . Why People Do Not Give Learners shared a range of personal, social, and practical reasons for why people in Singapore do not give. Seven main themes emerged, showing that hesitation stems from emotional, informational, and situational barriers. 1. Trust and Credibility Gaps A recurring barrier is distrust in charitable institutions. Many learners noted uncertainty about how funds are managed or whether donations truly reach the intended beneficiaries. Comments such as “don’t trust charities” and “lack of credibility (data)” reflect deeper concerns about transparency and accountability — highlighting the need for clearer communication and tangible evidence of impact. 2. Financial Constraints Giving may also be constrained by economic realities. Respondents mentioned “not enough money (yet)” and a “scarcity mindset” , reflecting the tension between wanting to help and needing to prioritize personal financial security. Some also perceive that some contributions would be insignificant compared to wealthier donors — a belief that diminishes motivation. 3. Awareness and Knowledge Gaps Some mentioned that people don’t know where or how to give. This indicates that information accessibility and simple giving pathways could significantly increase participation. 4. Lack of Personal Connection or Relevance Some people don’t give because charitable causes feel distant or unrelatable ( “cause does not relate to me” ). When individuals don’t see a clear connection between their values and a cause, motivation wanes. 5. Structural and Convenience Barriers Practical barriers also play a role. The comment “operational hurdle to give — not easy to donate” illustrates how inefficient systems or complex donation processes can discourage action, even among those who want to give. 6. Social and Cultural Influences Giving is also shaped by social context and cultural expectations. Phrases like “my family does not appreciate” and “kiasu mentality” reflect social norms that discourage giving or prioritize self-preservation over generosity. This indicates a social permission gap, where community attitudes can either enable or inhibit giving behavior. 7. Fatigue and Negative Experiences Some respondents suggested signs of donor fatigue or emotional burnout. Prior negative experiences — such as feeling unappreciated, over-solicited, or disappointed — can lead to disengagement. The Balance of Heart and Head Together, these insights paint a portrait of giving in Singapore that is both empathetic and evaluative. People give when it aligns with their sense of purpose and trust; they hesitate when these are absent. The future of philanthropy in Singapore, therefore, lies in bridging this gap — fostering trust, transparency, and personal connection that turn good intentions into sustained generosity. Dien Yuen with WMI October 2025

  • Daylight | Philanthropic Planning with Women

    You’ll gain insights into the differentiated needs, preferences, and behaviors of women in managing their finances and how those decisions are reflected in their philanthropy and social impact goals. Certificates Philanthropic Planning with Women Certificate Today, women control over $10 trillion, a third of US household financial assets. By 2030, they will control $34 trillion in financial assets as part of the Great Wealth Transfer. As women become more active in financial decision-making, understanding their goals and investment preferences is a business imperative. As clients, women are more likely to donate to charities, want to involve their families in philanthropy, and invest in social and environmental impact goals. In this certificate, you’ll gain insights into the differentiated needs, preferences, and behaviors of women in managing their finances and how those decisions are reflected in their philanthropy and social impact goals. 53% of female-controlled assets are unmanaged, compared to 45% for men. This represents a $10 trillion opportunity for firms recognizing female investors' unique goals and preferences. The new face of wealth: The rise of the female investor, McKinsey, 2025 With women set to control over $34 trillion in assets by 2030, understanding how they give, invest, and build a legacy is no longer optional — it's essential. Women are leading with purpose, seeking advisors who respect their priorities and support their desire to use wealth as a tool for impact. This course offers the knowledge and practical tools to engage women with clarity, confidence, and integrity. —Erin Hulme Oceguera LEARNING OBJECTIVES Understand the life events and motivations that influence women's philanthropic journeys, and how advisors need to adjust their approach and practices accordingly. Evaluate the strategy, tools, and funding options to support women as clients in maximizing their impact. Develop culturally competent approaches to advising women across diverse backgrounds. FACULTY Bleu Blakslee Bleu Blakslee is a nationally and internationally noted philanthropic strategist with over 35 years of nonprofit leadership experience, specializing in complex giving, planned giving, social impact strategy, and NextGen engagement. Bleu is a recognized leader in sector innovation—pioneering philanthropic applications of Web3, crypto, and non-cash asset giving—and has worked with family offices, professional advisors, and multi-generational donors to align values with impact. Darley Tom Darley Tom is a connector and changemaker, passionate about community and impact. As Managing Partner and Experience Architect for Maverick Collective, she leverages nearly 20 years of cross-sector experience to drive bold, purpose-driven initiatives. With a background in journalism, global programs, and luxury marketing, she blends creativity with business strategy to foster innovation. Darley’s ability to connect ideas, people, and purpose continues to create lasting impact across communities and philanthropic efforts. Beyond work, she enjoys gardening, hands-on creative projects, and archery. Denise Sarkor With over 18 years of experience at the intersection of financial services, business strategy, and human development, Denise Sarkor is Principal & Private Wealth Advisor at Sarkor Financial Advisors—a fee-only financial planning and investment management firm. In this capacity, she advises trailblazing—yet underestimated—community leaders, career executives, and small business owners on their personal financial plans, portfolios, trusts, estates, and philanthropic vehicles. Dien Yuen Dien Yuen is the founder and CEO of Daylight. Previously, Dien founded the Center for Philanthropy and Social Impact at The American College of Financial Services, where she served as the Blunt-Nickel Professor in Philanthropy. She also helped develop the curriculum for the Certified Impact Philanthropy Professional program at Singapore’s Wealth Management Institute (WMI), which recognized her with its Distinguished Faculty Award. Dien was named CEO of the Year in the Professional Services Firms category at the 2026 Wealth Management Industry Awards and is a 2026 Forbes 50 Over 50 honoree. Ellen Remmer Ellen Remmer is Co-Founder of Invest for Better and a champion for impact investing, philanthropy and social change. She launched Invest for Better with Co-Founder Janine Firpo in 2021, after incubating it at The Philanthropic Initiative, where she is a Senior Partner and served as President & CEO from 2006-2011. Ellen is also the President of the Remmer Family Foundation, on the Board of Prosperity Catalyst and the Maine Chapter of The Nature Conservancy, and a member of the Oxfam Leadership Council. Erin Hulme Erin is an independent philanthropy advisor with over 20 years of experience guiding philanthropists and nonprofit organizations in strategy development, resource mobilization, and the creation of high-impact partnerships. Her background includes leading the philanthropy team at the WHO Foundation and advancing gender-lens giving, collaborative philanthropy, and cross-border funding initiatives as part of the Philanthropic Partnerships team at the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. Erin launched her career at the United Nations Foundation and the International Business Leaders Forum, partnering with Fortune 500 companies to drive sustainability and global development. Jensyn Hallett Jensyn Hallett is a leader in philanthropy, gender equity, and economic development with over 15 years of experience advancing initiatives that empower women and build inclusive economies. She leads strategic partnerships at Invest for Better and founded Alivest, advising funders and entrepreneurs on aligning capital with impact. She also serves as Executive Director of the Southern Capital Project, expanding wealth-building opportunities for women. Jensyn teaches impact investing and social entrepreneurship, mentors emerging leaders, and previously led global investments as Director of Impact Capital at Heifer International. Rena Greifinger Rena Greifinger is an award-winning social entrepreneur, philanthropy leader, and advocate for gender equality. As Managing Partner of Maverick Collective, she works to unlock the power and potential of women and their capital to advance health and equity across the world. From founding and scaling a national leadership and mentoring program for young people living with HIV, to working in over 20 countries to bring better quality sexual and reproductive health services and access to adolescent girls, to launching a community of bold women investors as they catalyze impact for gender equality, she leads with purpose, authenticity, and joy. Yolanda F. Johnson A trusted leader in fundraising, philanthropy and Inclusive Philanthropy, Yolanda F. Johnson is the founder of Women of Color in Fundraising and Philanthropy (WOC) and a sought-after keynote speaker, instructor, panelist, and moderator for various presenting organizations and academic institutions nationwide and internationally. Yolanda is a founding member of the Women’s Philanthropy Alliance, a core group of industry experts and thought leaders on Women's Philanthropy. Yolanda is a member of the Women’s Philanthropy Institute National Council as well as the Leadership Network for the Amplify Her Charitable Foundation. She is a member of the Impact-Driven Philanthropy Collaborative and serves on the Marketing Committee of Advisors in Philanthropy. FEATURED INDUSTRY PRACTITIONERS Shilpa Andalkar, CFP®, CDFA® Shari Fleming, Esq., AEP®, CAP® Elaine Martyn Stephanie Ellis-Smith, CAP® Hali Lee Heather McLeod Grant Philanthropic Planning with Women Certificate Modules Planning for the New Majority in Wealth Life Events that Impact Giving Financial, Estate and Philanthropic Planning Planning and Engaging with Purpose Investing for Impact Strategy to Execution Course Format Program Type: Certificate program - asynchronous course with module quizzes Program Delivery: Readings, case study, videos, graphics, downloadable resources Program Complexity Level: Intermediate Daylight is an approved CE sponsor. Continuing education credits are eligible for completion of the Philanthropic Planning with Women Certificate. CFP®, CPWA®, CIMA®, RMA®, CAP®, CFRE, CSPGCM: 6.5 hours Download Philanthropic Planning with Women Certificate program description and program outline . Register for the Philanthropic Planning with Women Certificate or an Annual Certificate Subscription now! INDIVIDUAL OR ANNUAL SUBSCRIPTION CHECKOUT

  • Daylight | Impact Investing Certificate

    Client demand for sustainable change is growing. We’ve designed the Impact Investing Certificate to enhance your expertise in this growing field. Are you a financial advisor, attorney, CPA, or philanthropic advisor who is new to impact investing or want to broaden your knowledge? Certificates Impact Investing Certificate Client demand for sustainable change is growing. We’ve designed the Impact Investing Certificate to enhance your expertise in this growing field. Are you a financial advisor, attorney, CPA, or philanthropic advisor who is new to impact investing or want to broaden your knowledge? The curriculum moves from core concepts through real-world implementation. We explore the evolving market dynamics and regulatory considerations, empowering you to engage in informed discussions with clients about aligning investments with their values. Through case studies and tips from industry practitioners, you’ll gain practical tools to help clients explore impact investing while maintaining focus on their financial objectives. The future of wealth management extends beyond financial returns. By deepening their expertise in impact investing, advisors can confidently help clients pursue opportunities that drive profit and purpose. It’s about making this powerful approach accessible and actionable for everyone in the wealth advisory space. - Allison Parker 79% Source: Nuveen’s 2021 Sixth Annual Responsible Investing Survey. of investors agree they would be much more loyal to a financial advisor who actively helps them invest in a way that also has a positive impact on the world. LEARNING OBJECTIVES Describe fundamental impact investing concepts, define key terms, and explain common investment vehicles used in the field. Analyze how impact investing can complement and enhance philanthropic strategies, including examining the relationship between financial returns and social impact. Identify appropriate situations and opportunities to explore impact investing with clients. Address common client concerns about impact investing performance and measurement. Apply practical frameworks for incorporating impact investing considerations into existing client advisory relationships and investment strategies. FEATURED INDUSTRY PRACTITIONERS Sharon Schneider , Founder & Principal, Integrated Capital Strategies, LLC. Sharon helps founders and family offices create positive social change using an expanded toolbox of resources and strategies that spans the return spectrum from grants to market-rate investments. She is also the author of “Handbook for an Integrated Life: a Practical Guide to Aligning Your Everyday Choices with Your Internal Compass,” a #1 New Release on Amazon that helps individuals live into their values the same way her consulting helps business owners and family offices. Sayer Jones , Director, Occam Advisors Sayer has 15 years direct experience working with institutions structuring and measuring the impacts of their investments. He led the regional impact investing practice at Meyer Memorial Trust in program related investment and mission related investment portfolios for 12 years, deploying over $50 million. Sayer has chaired city and state boards focused on impact investing and managing public portfolios for impact. He has led investors in workshops to align social values with financial and cultural returns, and has experience as an entrepreneur, representing asset owners, and managing fund managers and consultants. FACULTY Allison Parker , CAP® Allison Parker, principal of Peake Impact, works directly with foundations ready to invest in constructive and crucial societal change. With 25 years of experience in the social impact sector, she excels at identifying investment opportunities that route capital to under-resourced communities where targeted investments can yield exponential results. Impact Investing Certificate Modules Fundamentals of Impact Investing Impact Across Asset Classes The Impact Investing Philanthropy Connection From Theory to Practice: Community Voice & Place-Based Solutions Impact Integrity: Due Diligence, Measurement, Ethics, and Professional Responsibility Impact Investing Through DAFs Course Format Program Type: Certificate program - asynchronous course with module quizzes Program Delivery: Readings, case study, videos, graphics, downloadable advisor resources Program Complexity Level: Intermediate Daylight is an approved CE sponsor. Continuing education credits are eligible for completion of the Impact Investing Certificate. CFP®, CPWA®, CIMA®, RMA®, CAP®, CFRE, CSPGCM:  6.5 hours  Download Impact Investing Certificate program description and program outline . Register for the Impact Investing Certificate or an Annual Certificate Subscription now! INDIVIDUAL OR ANNUAL SUBSCRIPTION CHECKOUT

  • Turning Advisors Into Ambassadors | Daylighthttps://daylightadvisors.wixsite.com/daylightadvisors/daylight-in-practice/turning-advisors-into-ambassadors

    Turning Advisors Into Ambassadors Turning Advisors Into Ambassadors By Crystal Thompkins Director of Strategic Impact, Daylight A strong network of professional advisors can be invaluable to nonprofits. Professional advisors can serve as a resource for technical expertise and as connectors to others within their networks. Many nonprofits develop councils, create collateral, and host events to cultivate relationships with advisors in hopes of uncovering new opportunities. Much time and resources are spent engaging with advisors, yet often the effort does not yield commensurate results. Successful engagement with advisors, meaning engagement that creates a pipeline of new donor opportunities, doesn’t come solely from pleasant lunches and glossy marketing material. Here are 6 tips to help turn professional advisors into effective ambassadors: Develop an advisor engagement strategy. Advisor engagement should be strategic for and specific to your organization, not an obligation or copycat project from other organizations. Consider your organization’s goals, resources, and needs. How might professional advisors specifically (as opposed to other stakeholder groups) help reach those goals or meet a need given your available resources? What resources will you allocate and how? What are the measurable outcomes and success metrics for your advisor engagement? Events and activities should result from the strategy. They are not the strategy. Keep it simple. A sound strategy with supporting activities and clear goals does not need to be complicated. In fact, it shouldn’t be. The simpler the better. Limit activities to those that have a direct line to meeting your goals. Advisor engagement should not distract or subtract from other organizational priorities and resources. Recruit thoughtfully. With the strategy in mind, consider the profile of the advisors who will be most likely to help meet your goals and be thoughtful in selecting advisors to collaborate with. Look for criteria besides oldest/largest practice, most popular, or biggest donor. What networks are they connected to that you are not? Do they have an existing affinity to your organization? What role(s) have they demonstrated (asker, doer, host, connector, etc.)? Would you and your team enjoy working more closely with them? Keep in mind that an advisor may be a subject matter expert or a great supporter of your organization, but that may not translate into being a great ambassador. Be clear about the expectation. The most effective ambassadors know that’s their role. Let advisors know why your organization wants them to be a part of your success and how they can contribute. Instead of downplaying their commitment - “It’s only one meeting a quarter!” - be upfront about the importance of their participation in achieving your goals: “We’re relying on the connections made through our advisor networks to help meet our goals. We’ll need your active involvement to make that happen.” Give them something to do and the tools to do it. One of the best gifts you can give a busy person is instruction, so they don’t have to spend valuable time figuring out how to do something. Give your advisors tasks that are clear and time-sensitive, along with any tools that will help them. If you want them to make introductions, tell them who, how many, why, and by when. Make a digital toolkit with three bullet points on key initiatives, a 60-day calendar of events, a contact list, and an intro email template. Ask them to share it with at least X number of people a month. Let them tell you if that’s too many or too few. The specificity not only makes it easier for them to do, but it also makes it easier for you to track and report outcomes. Interact with purpose. Whether it’s a phone call, an email, or a meeting, every interaction with your advisor network should include: An acknowledgement of their contribution to your success. A reminder and/or status update of their tasks. A discussion of what hurdles or barriers they’re encountering. A report of the status of goals & celebrating accomplishments. A learning moment. Time for listening to their feedback or an offer to do so at a later date. Addressing these six things will affirm their importance to your organization while establishing a sense of collaboration and accountability. ©2025 Daylight Advisors, Inc.

  • Who Recommends Donor-Advised Funds? | Daylighthttps://daylightadvisors.wixsite.com/daylightadvisors/daylight-in-practice/who-recommends-donor-advised-funds

    Who Recommends Donor-Advised Funds? Who Recommends Donor-Advised Funds? By Dien Yuen Donor-advised funds (DAFs) are now among the most widely used charitable vehicles in the U.S., prized for their flexibility, administrative ease, and tax advantages. But who is recommending DAFs to donors and clients? What are their backgrounds, and where do they work? Daylights’ 2024 survey of 258 philanthropy advisors sheds light on these questions. Of the respondents, 140 (54%) reported having used or recommended DAFs in the prior three years, while 42 (16%) said they had not. By examining both groups, we can gain a deeper understanding of who these advisors are, where they work, and how their backgrounds influence their practices. The Broad Definition of Philanthropy Advisors The survey defined “philanthropy advisors” broadly - anyone engaged in navigating the who, what, why, and how of using resources for philanthropy and social impact. This included full-time philanthropic advisors as well as wealth advisors, tax advisors, attorneys, accountants, gift planners, or other nonprofit professionals. Where Advisors Who Recommend DAFs Work Advisors who used or recommended DAFs in the past three years most often work in community foundations or similar organizations (42%). By contrast, those who did not use or recommend DAFs were far more likely to be self-employed (54%). This suggests that advisors embedded in institutions that sponsor or manage DAFs are much more likely to recommend them than their peers in independent practice. Question: Which of the following best describes your current employer/business? Category DAF Users Non-DAF Users Consulting practice or firm (self-employed) 34% 54% Community foundation or similar organization 42% 4% Nonprofit organization 14% 28% Consulting practice or firm (as an employee or consultant) 10% 15% Advisor Backgrounds and Experience The survey shows that advisors who recommend DAFs come from diverse backgrounds. While 20% had 10–14 years in the field, many had either less than 10 years (25%) or over 20 years (40%) of experience. Non-DAF users skewed slightly older, with higher percentages in the 60+ range. Among DAF users, 70% were women, 17% were Black, and 16% identified as LGBTQ+—slightly more diverse than the non-DAF group. California, Washington, and Pennsylvania topped the list for DAF-recommending advisors’ locations. Clients Served Both DAF users and nonusers primarily serve individuals, families, and nonprofit organizations. More DAF users than nonusers describe more than half their clients as builders of new wealth, as opposed to inheritors of existing wealth. Question: What types of clients does your current employer/business serve? (Select all that apply.) Category DAF Users Non-DAF Users Businesses and social enterprises 61% 32% Community foundations 59% 44% Donor-advised funds 64% 32% Donor/funder collaboratives or issue funds 68% 43% Individuals and families 82% 78% Nonprofit organizations 77% 59% Operating foundations 42% 35% Private foundations 63% 52% Research groups 36% 7% What Services Do They Provide? Advisors who recommend DAFs often integrate charitable vehicle selection into a broader suite of services: 82% help clients define purpose and values. 77% develop impact strategies for charitable vehicles. 68% specifically guide clients in choosing and establishing vehicles such as DAFs, foundations, or trusts. Non-DAF users were less likely to provide this technical guidance, suggesting they may focus more on values-based advising, fundraising, or nonprofit-side donor engagement. Learning, Knowledge, and Professional Resources DAF users and nonusers rank learning on the job as most helpful to their learning and development as advisors. DAF users also note relationships with mentors to be helpful, while nonusers rank resources they find on their own—such as books, blogs, and online forums—as key to their learning. Advisors were asked to assess their current levels of knowledge across several key areas. DAF users and nonusers report equal levels of skill in the areas of client resource identification, financial capital development, and teaming and collaboration with other fields. However, DAF users rate themselves as more skilled than nonusers in the areas of sector knowledge, philanthropic planning and strategy development, charitable tools selection, and vehicle selection. Twice as many nonusers than DAF users consider themselves to be novices in financial capital development. The Bigger Picture DAFs are not the only tool advisors recommend—direct gifts, bequests, and private foundations also feature heavily—but they remain the most widely used across nearly all employer types. In short, advisors who recommend DAFs tend to be more institutionally connected and more confident in the technical aspects of charitable planning. For donors and clients, this means that working with such advisors often leads to clearer guidance on when and how to use DAFs alongside other vehicles like bequests or private foundations. For nonprofits, it underscores the importance of building relationships with advisors, since they play a pivotal role in steering charitable dollars. And for the advisors themselves, the findings highlight both the opportunities and responsibilities of recommending tools that can shape how, when, and where philanthropy flows. ©2025 Daylight Advisors, Inc.

  • January 2025 Cohort | Daylight

    Certified IPAs January 2025 Cohort Aleta Stampley Ana Gamborena Birger Stamperdahl Claudia Ehrlich Donald Wong Erin Howe Jen Shafer Jordan Brown Lauren Tudor Mary Fischer-Nassib Nancy Neal Shilpa Andalkar Xin Xin Alexander Hoffmaster Andra Kranzler Britney Nesbit Clayton Jason Douglas Page Ginger Opp Jenny Weinar Karen Mae Cheung Len Maranan-Goldstein Mary Lam-Witcher Nishita Bakshi Stacey Guadnola Alexis Miller Antoinette LeCouteur Caroline Kuebler Cris Lutz Elaine Chu Gloris Estrella Jesse Bohlin Kate Landon Liza Hanks Miguel de la Fuente-Lau Ruyi Lu Stephanie Gillis Alison Patterson Asa Tate Christal M. Cherry Denise Sarkor Elizabeth Burdette Hugh Lawson Jessica Weare Kathleen Tranovich Lora Smith Mike Todd Santi Alston Susan Caperton Amber Gonzales Vargas Asma Mahmood Christen Lee Diane N. Nguyen Emerald Adeyemi Iris Sagi Jilla Tombar Kristin Giant Marguerite Griffin Molly McAndrew Shawn Castellanos Tonya Sisco

  • Daylight | Philanthropic Planning with Business Owners

    In this certificate, you’ll learn about demographic trends in wealth building through business ownership and the philanthropic planning implications of various business structures and assets. You’ll gain insights into frameworks for managing companies’ philanthropy and social impact programs. You’ll also learn about your role in helping business owners find their purpose and meet philanthropic planning goals before, during, and after exits from their businesses. Certificates Philanthropic Planning with Business Owners Certificate More than 99% of U.S. companies are privately owned. Their founders and owners contribute more money and time than non-entrepreneurs. They’re more likely to consider themselves philanthropists, to be hands-on in their philanthropy, and to leave legacy gifts. Additionally, approximately 69% of these business owners intend to incorporate charitable giving into their plans for exiting their businesses. In this certificate, you’ll learn about demographic trends in wealth building through business ownership and the philanthropic planning implications of various business structures and assets. You’ll gain insights into frameworks for managing companies’ philanthropy and social impact programs. You’ll also learn about your role in helping business owners find their purpose and meet philanthropic planning goals before, during, and after exits from their businesses. 73% Entrepreneurs as Philanthropists, Fidelity Charitable of entrepreneurs have spoken with an advisor about giving, compared with half of non-entrepreneurs. LEARNING OBJECTIVES Understand how philanthropic planning fits into the lifecycle of starting, growing, and exiting different types of business entities. Compare opportunities and challenges of charitable planning with several types of business assets. Choose potential options for a business to formalize its philanthropy or social impact program. Evaluate the potential impact of business ownership transition options on the owner and their philanthropic goals. Propose philanthropic planning solutions for a case study of a “millionaire next door” business owner. FACULTY David Flores Wilson David Flores Wilson, CFA, CFP®, CEPA®, CM&AA, Managing Partner at Sincerus Advisory, advises entrepreneurs and business owners in New York City on personal financial planning issues from formation to exit and beyond. A multiple-time Investopedia Top 100 Financial Advisor, his financial guidance has appeared on CNBC, Yahoo!Finance, the New York Times, US News & World Report, and InvestmentNews. David represented Guam in the 1996 Atlanta Olympic Games, sits on the Board of Directors as Treasurer for the Lower East Side Girls Club, and is active with Entrepreneur's Organization, the Estate Planning Council of New York City, Advisors in Philanthropy (AiP), and the Exit Planning Institute. Denise Sarkor With over 18 years of experience at the intersection of financial services, business strategy, and human development, Denise Sarkor is Principal & Private Wealth Advisor at Sarkor Financial Advisors—a fee-only financial planning and investment management firm. In this capacity, she advises trailblazing—yet underestimated—community leaders, career executives, and small business owners on their personal financial plans, portfolios, trusts, estates, and philanthropic vehicles. Denise's expertise extends beyond traditional financial services, as she focuses on helping marginalized communities in building impactful legacies through tailored financial strategies. Learn more at denisesarkor.com or sarkorfinancialadvisors.com. Lillie N. Nkenchor Lillie N. Nkenchor, Esq., LL.M. is the Founding and Managing Attorney of Lillie N. Nkenchor, PC, where she drafts estate planning and business documents and resolves complex legal issues for individuals, families, and business owners. Lillie combines legal precision with strategic insight to help clients protect assets, build generational wealth, and achieve their personal and business goals in a tax-efficient way. In addition to her legal practice, Lillie is an engaging speaker who presents to students, professionals, and community groups to educate, inspire, and empower others to plan confidently. Her mission is to demystify estate and business planning so people can move forward without fear or confusion—and take control of their financial futures. Ryan Raffin Ryan serves as Partner, Noncash Assets & Compliance, for Charitable Solutions, LLC. His work focuses on compliance, tax, and due diligence issues relating to complex charitable giving. His work involves assessment of proposed donations and liquidation of donated assets, particularly involving Dechomai Foundation, Inc. Prior to joining Charitable Solutions, Ryan graduated from the University of Iowa College of Law. He earned a bachelor's degree in accounting from the University of Notre Dame. He is licensed to practice in Colorado and South Carolina. Sarah Taylor Sarah Taylor is the founder of Taylor Impact Group, where she helps individuals, families, foundations, and companies build their legacy through purposeful and strategic giving. Before launching her independent practice, Sarah built and led philanthropic programs for Fortune 500 companies, like Tito's Handmade Vodka and Vista Equity Partners. She has advised executives on their personal giving, developed signature grantmaking programs, launched employee giving initiatives, and scaled cause-marketing efforts that increased brand equity and consumer loyalty. Tony Macklin Tony Macklin leads the development of new education programs and field-building projects as Daylight’s Director of Advisor Practice. He is a philanthropist, philanthropoid, and philanthropy geek. Tony enjoys working at the intersection of meaningful giving and community results, specifically connecting older, established forms of philanthropy with emerging trends and experiments. Tony helps donors, families, grantmakers, and their advisors and associations answer questions about shared purpose, use of resources for social impact, governance, strategy, and assessment. He is a frequent speaker, trainer, and author. Philanthropic Planning with Business Owners Certificate Modules Fundamentals of Entrepreneurship and Business Ownership Charitable and Estate Planning with Business Owners Business Philanthropy and Social Impact Choices Philanthropy as Part of Business Transition & Exit Planning Case Study Exercise, Post-Ownership, and Advisory Roles Course Format Program Type: Certificate program - asynchronous course with module quizzes Program Delivery: Readings, case study, videos, graphics, downloadable resources Program Complexity Level: Intermediate Daylight is an approved CE sponsor. Continuing education credits are eligible for completion of the Philanthropic Planning with Business Owners Certificate. CFP®, CPWA®, CIMA®, RMA®, CAP®, CFRE, CSPGCM : 6.5 hours Download Philanthropic Planning with Business Owners Certificate program description and program outline . Register for the Philanthropic Planning with Business Owners Certificate or an Annual Certificate Subscription now! INDIVIDUAL OR ANNUAL SUBSCRIPTION CHECKOUT

  • Daylight | Our Work

    Daylight is your philanthropic planning training partner, equipping you with the confidence, competence, and cultural dexterity to grow your practice, strengthen client relationships, and lead with impact. It is home to the flagship program, the Impact Philanthropy Advisor (IPA) Certificate Program for philanthropic and wealth advisors. Our Work Amidst a historic intergenerational transfer of wealth, clients are turning to advisors for more than investment and tax planning, and philanthropy’s tools, considerations, and goals have become more complex. It’s a transformative era for wealth and philanthropy, requiring new competencies and networks to thrive. Daylight’s learning platform is exclusively designed for wealth and philanthropic advisors to help you meet this extraordinary opportunity to grow your business, client relationships, and impact. Our programs give advisors the confidence, competence, and cultural dexterity to modernize their philanthropic advising practice. The Certified Impact Philanthropy Advisor (IPA) program and segment certificates establish a new benchmark for excellence in philanthropic advising training, while the Impact Advisor Network (IAN) supports a thriving community of practitioners. The Daylight Philanthropic Advising Competency Model is the first field-informed framework that outlines the knowledge, skills, and behaviors advisors need to serve clients and communities today. Since 2024, Daylight has illuminated the path for philanthropic advisors and those in the wealth industry seeking to align career growth, values, and impact. Daylight’s philanthropic advising ecosystem connects learning, credentialing, tools, and community to support your advisory practice. Field Definition The Philanthropic Advising Competency Model equips advisors with a shared language and professional standard. Community The Impact Advisors Network (IAN) sustains learning, reinforces standards, and builds advisor confidence over time. Credentialing The Certified Impact Philanthropy Advisor program builds the skills advisors need to integrate philanthropy into wealth planning. Convenings Daylight convenes advisors to collectively shape the future of philanthropic advising. Specialization A set of niche certificates helps advisors deepen their expertise and explore emerging areas. Research Our original research delivers field-informed guidance to strengthen, connect, and elevate the philanthropic advising profession. Knowledge Hub Advisors gain access to high-quality, curated resources that support practice in real time (DAFopedia ). Practice Norms Practice-based insights are embedded across Daylight’s programs, reinforcing sound judgment and professional trust. Download the Daylight overview here .

  • Daylight's Charitable Planning Landscape Map | Daylighthttps://daylightadvisors.wixsite.com/daylightadvisors/daylight-in-practice/daylight-charitable-planning-landscape-map-2026

    Daylight's Charitable Planning Landscape Map Daylight's Charitable Planning Landscape Map Charitable planning draws on a range of expertise, from understanding a client’s goals to carrying out a gift and reviewing the plan over time. The Charitable Planning Landscape Map shows how that work fits together. Created by Daylight, it shows the professionals, services, and resources that can support a charitable plan across four stages: Engage and Discover, Advise and Design, Structure and Implement, and Administer and Steward. Daylight's Charitable Planning Landscape Map 2026 .pdf Download PDF • 1.19MB

  • Dien Yuen, CAP®, AEP®, IPA | Daylight

    Dien Yuen, CAP®, AEP®, IPA Dien Yuen (She/Her) CEO Dien Yuen, JD, LLM, CAP®, AEP®, IPA, is the founder and CEO of Daylight. She is helping build the infrastructure for philanthropic advising through research, professional standards, education, and a community of practitioners. Dien was named CEO of the Year in the Professional Services Firms category at the 2026 Wealth Management Industry Awards and is a 2026 Forbes 50 Over 50 Impact honoree. She was also named to WealthManagement’s 2025 Ten to Watch and inducted into the National Association of Charitable Gift Planners Hall of Fame in 2023. Dien has held senior leadership positions at global nonprofit organizations and wealth management firms. Previously, she founded the Center for Philanthropy and Social Impact at The American College of Financial Services, where she served as the Blunt-Nickel Professor in Philanthropy. She also created the curriculum and served as the inaugural faculty member for the Certified Impact Philanthropy Professional program at Singapore’s Wealth Management Institute, which later honored her with its Distinguished Faculty Award. LinkedIn

  • Daylight | Certified Impact Philanthropy Advisor

    Earning the Certified Impact Philanthrop Advisor certification signifies the successful completion of a rigorous 12-module program designed to cultivate the relational, technical, and practical skills essential for effective philanthropic planning. Through independent study and collaborative discussions, the program further enhances the capabilities of advisors to support the evolving needs and expectations of families, organizations, and communities. Edit About Chat Experience User Faculty Camera Fees Mail Register THE IMPACT PHILANTHROPY ADVISOR CERTIFICATION Amidst a historic $124 trillion intergenerational transfer of wealth, clients are turning to advisors for more than investments and tax planning, and philanthropy’s tools, considerations and goals have become more complex. Daylight’s learning platform and network are designed exclusively for wealth and philanthropic advisors, to help you meet this extraordinary opportunity to grow your business, client relationships and impact. With a mix of expert facilitation and on-demand instruction available online over 20 weeks, the Impact Philanthropy Advisor program (IPA) offers the skills and connections to confidently support the needs and expectations of families, organizations and communities today. 518 IPA Learners Enrolled 411 Certified IPAs 97% Graduation Rate 43 Community Foundation Represented 16 Countries/ Regions Net Promoter Score Our IPA program received a world-class rating that reflects the strength of our learning community. NPS 83 "Consider the IPA Certification a launching pad to elevate and strengthen one's confidence in being able to better serve those they're called to guide. I'm excited about the domino effect that will be felt throughout time by the advisors and consultants who lean into the wisdom that is collectively shared here." Padric H.B. Scott Founder & CEO, Crossroad Capital Partners "Daylight offers a comprehensive view of the field along with practical tools to help shape your unique approach. In a space where formal certification has been lacking, Daylight is leading the way by helping professionals build core competencies and define their practice." Jennifer Curry Director of Giving Strategies, Oregon Community Foundation "My experience with Daylight and the IPA program was exceptional. IPA offered a comprehensive overview of the philanthropic landscape, from giving vehicles to advisory strategies, while remaining highly practical and applicable to day-to-day work. The program created a valuable space to connect with thoughtful, like-minded peers across the sector." Travers Oliver Head of Philanthropic Strategies, Founders Pledge IPAs in Their Own Words THE IPA EXPERIENCE The Impact Philanthropy Advisor certification is a state-of-the-art learning program. IPA participants will receive • 20 weeks of learning designed by expert advisors • On-demand content and case studies • Live group discussions facilitated by industry practitioners • New peer connections • Continuing education credits • Celebrations and virtual graduation • One year access to the Impact Advisors Network • Complimentary access to Collaborative Philanthropy Certificate HOW IPA BUILDS PROFESSIONAL COMPETENCE IPA develops competence across three interconnected dimensions TECHNICAL Assess charitable and non-charitable giving strategies and structures Integrate philanthropic considerations with wealth, tax, and estate planning Evaluate giving vehicles, assets, and approaches in relation to client goals RELATIONAL Integrate knowledge and judgment in complex client situation Elicit client values, motivations, priorities, and definitions of impact Facilitate effective philanthropic conversations among clients, families, and advisors PRACTICAL Translate client goals into appropriate philanthropic strategies and next steps Apply knowledge and judgment to complex, client situations Recognize ethical considerations, professional boundaries, and limits of expertise THE PROGRAM HOW IT WORKS About 30 hours, start-to-finish 6-8 executives per cohort 12 self-paced modules 5 case studies 10 live virtual cohort conversations facilitated by TonyMacklin, Dir. of Advisor Practice, Daylight Successful completion of the IPA program provides 16 hours of eligible CE credit. CFP Board | Certified Financial Planner® (14.5 eligible hours) Investments and Wealth Institute | Certified Private Wealth Advisor®, Certified Investment Management Analyst®, Retirement Management Advisor® The American College of Financial Services | Chartered Advisor in Philanthropy® The American Institute for Philanthropic Studies, CSU Long Beach | Certified Planned Giving Specialist® Certified Fund Raising Executive International | CFRE IPA MODULES 1. Fundamentals in Philanthropic Advising 2. Social Impact Landscape 3. Art of Philanthropic Advising 4. Purpose and Strategy 5. Charitable Tax Planning 6. Legacy and Gift Planning 7. Foundations and Donor Advised Funds 8. Impact Investing and Alternative Tools 9. Influence, Leverage and Civic Action 10. Planning for the Future 11. Ethics in Philanthropic Advising 12. Cultural Dexterity Download IPA program description and program outline . WHO NEEDS TO BE AN IPA? Whether in a wealth management firm, DAF sponsor or community foundation, family office, grantmaker or nonprofit, many roles benefit from fluency in philanthropy. IPA is for: Client-facing advisors and team members, to better understand your clients and their families, the options available to them, and to collaborate with fellow advisors. Business development roles, to be nimble and opportunistic with the demands of U/HNW families today. Planning and philanthropic specialists, to support junior team members, and for advanced leaders to update their knowledge and be first to access new courses. Associates interested in social change, to further their career development and boost firm loyalty and retention. FACULTY Nishita Bakshi MBA, MSAE, IPA Philanthropy Advisor Aquanetta Betts JD, AEP®, CAP®, CFRE, IPA Johnson Betts, LLC Beth Harper Briglia CPA, CAP®, IPA Philanthropic Advisor Ginni Galicinao ACFBA, ACFWA, CAP®, CPCC, ORSC, IPA Dynamics of Family Wealth Mark Greer MBA, CAP®, IPA Phīla Engaged Giving Steve Grourke CAP®, CFRE, IPA National Park Foundation Andrew Ho MBA, CAP®, IPA National Academy of Sciences Seth Klukoff IPA Eoan Strategies, LLC Shelly Kurtz IPA Eagle Pointe Advisors Cris Chapparo Lutz CAP®, CSPG, IPA The Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens Tony Macklin CAP®, IPA Daylight Rick Peck CAP®, CFP®, ChFC®, IPA Richard C. Peck Consulting, LLC Rebecca Rothey CFRE, CAP®, AEP®, IPA FACILITATORS Bleu Blakslee IPA Quantum Philanthropy Partners Consulting LLC Beth Harper Briglia CPA, CAP®, IPA Philanthropic Advisor Jaimi Cortes MBA, IPA COR Philanthropic Strategies Kristin Giant JD, IPA Hyperlocal Impact Consultants, LLC Zakiya Lord CFRE, CAP®, IPA The Climate & Clean Energy Equity Fund Ruyi Lu IPA CCS Fundraising Tony Macklin CAP®, IPA Tony Macklin Consulting Rob McPherson IPA The Indianapolis Foundation Doug Page CAP®, IPA Greater Tacoma Community Foundation Erik Rankin MS, MPS, IPA Illinois Prairie Community Foundation Dorothy Stuehmke MPA, CAP®, IPA Capital Impact Advisory Jilla Tombar CAP®, IPA Blackbridge Philanthropic Joy Webb MBA, CAP®, IPA Philanthropic Advisor FEES For Profit: $2,850 Nonprofit & Independent Practitioners: $2,500 SCHEDULE January 2027 Live Session Schedule REGISTER Impact Philanthropy Advisor - Executive Cohort Enroll Now Re-Enroll or Withdraw Still have questions? See our FAQs . Not ready for the Certified IPA program? Join our Introduction to Philanthropic Planning Certificate - a complimentary, two-module, self-study program! IPA About Experience Faculty Fees Register IPA: A New Standard for Impact Quick Links About NPS Testimonials Experience IPA Modules Who Faculty Facilitators Fees Register

  • Daylight | Philanthropic Advising Research

    Who are philanthropic advisors? What services do they provide? What challenges do they face in their work? What kinds of support and resources could help them generate more impact in their communities? Daylight's Philanthropic Advisor: Professional Development, Practice, and Knowledge Gaps is the first comprehensive report to examine the unique experiences and professional needs of today's philanthropic advisors. U.S. Philanthropic Advisors 2024: Professional Development, Practice, and Knowledge Gaps Who are philanthropic advisors? What services do they provide? What challenges do they face in their work? What kinds of support and resources could help them generate more impact in their communities? Here's a look at understanding the unique experiences and professional needs of today's philanthropic advisors. Download Report EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Philanthropic advisors play a critical role within the philanthropic ecosystem, yet their professional experiences remain largely unmapped. Little is known about who today’s advisors are, how they learned the craft, whom they serve, and how they carry out their work to generate impact. This research is the first of several initiatives to better understand the experiences and needs of philanthropic advisors as crucial yet understudied agents of social change. The topics of inquiry include the nature of their current work and impact; whom they serve and how they do so; their experience in the field, including role tenure, salary, and supervisory responsibilities; how they stay abreast of charitable trends and apply new tools; and the specific skills and knowledge areas they seek to develop further. We conducted an online survey with 258 philanthropic advisors living in or working with clients in the United States. The term “philanthropic advisors” was defined broadly to include anyone involved in navigating the who, what, why, and how of using resources for philanthropy and social impact, either as a full-time job or as part of the role of a wealth advisor, gift planner, or other profession. KEY FINDINGS The field is becoming more diverse. Over half (51%) of the newcomers to philanthropic advising, defined as having fewer than 10 years of experience, were Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC). New advisors were mostly female (65%) and in their 30s (38%). Learn more about philanthropic advisor entrepreneurs . Advisors in their 30s are leading diversity efforts. Respondents aged 30–39 reported serving more BIPOC and/or Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender (LGBTQ+) clients than their colleagues in other age cohorts. Respondents are moving billions in charitable dollars. Collectively, the respondents helped to facilitate almost $13 billion in charitable giving last year, with an individual average of $50 million. The largest category (40%) helped to facilitate between $1 million and $10 million, and the second largest category (28%) helped to facilitate between $10 million and $100 million. Donor-advised funds (DAFs) remain popular throughout the sector. Both new and senior advisors named DAFs among their most commonly used charitable tools. They were the most or second-most popular charitable tool across employer types. Explore which advisors guide donors toward DAFs—and what sets them apart. With experience comes confidence—with some exceptions. When asked to rate their knowledge levels in key skill areas, respondents reported levels of expertise that generally increased with experience, with the exception of two broad skill areas: 1) financial capital development and 2) diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), intercultural, and wealth dynamics. Growth as a philanthropic advisor comes primarily from learning on the job. When asked to rate several educational resources, such as professional development programs or memberships in associations, all respondent groups described learning on the job as the most helpful to their development as advisors. VOICE OF THE ADVISOR Tony Macklin, Director of Daylight's Advisor Practice, shares how we define philanthropic advisors.

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