Private Foundation Risk Management

Risk Management for Private Foundations Series

How to mitigate exposure while maximizing impact


Research shows that financial giving by private foundations continues to rise, and the opportunity to maximize impact has never been greater. But that means private foundations need a strong grasp of the risks involved with an ever-evolving giving landscape.

This in-depth series dives into the largest issues facing private foundations today. Our team of in-house experts paired with external resources and private foundation case studies provide boards of directors and executive leaders with a clear roadmap that identifies challenges and solutions as well as opportunities to be pioneers among private foundations implementing change.

From becoming an early adopter of new technologies to proactively training staff to handle cybersecurity issues, this whitepaper is packed with actionable steps and best practices on how to optimize private foundations.

We hope you find inspiration to implement new ideas in the months and years ahead.

Thank you,


Stephanie Yan

Private Foundation Practice Leader, GHJ

Lizbeth Nevarez
Nonprofit Tax Practice Leader, GHJ


Over the last 20+ years at GHJ, I have watched many leaders emerge throughout the firm's practice areas. As the Nonprofit Practice Leader, it has been my honor to develop a team with deep expertise in helping private foundations create value and implement real change in the communities they serve.

I have worked with Stephanie Yan and Lizbeth Nevarez for years and have seen their leadership shine in the development of GHJ’s Private Foundation Practice.

Stephanie's accounting and audit expertise paired with a calm demeanor and strong leadership skills make her a valuable asset to GHJ’s private foundation clients. Lizbeth is a force within GHJ and in nonprofit community, and her work with GHJ's nonprofit clients has proven to be indispensable in advancing their missions.

In 2020, GHJ launched its own foundation. Like many of our private foundation clients, GHJ Foundation serves the Firm’s community through funding and volunteerism. It was established with the expertise of Stephanie, Lizbeth and the rest of our team, many of which are featured in this report.

This series reflects the subject matter expertise and professional relationships that Stephanie and Lizbeth have developed throughout their careers. You will find insights from the industry's most significant thought leaders with strategic takeaways for private foundations of all sizes and structures.

Donella Wilson
Nonprofit Practice Leader, GHJ
President and Chief Philanthropy Officer, GHJ Foundation