Acknowledgment: Over the coming months, The Club Council will publish a five-part series by Kevin F. Reilly, J.D., CPA, on philanthropy in private clubs. Inspired by “Clubs in Philanthropy,” originally co-authored by Reilly and Larry J. Absheer, MBA, for NCA’s Club Director magazine, these articles revisit and expand upon those ideas for today’s private club leaders.
Private clubs have always been centers of community, tradition, and personal connection. Increasingly, however, they are also becoming platforms for philanthropy.
Over the past decade, many clubs have expanded their charitable and community-focused efforts through scholarship programs, employee assistance funds, preservation initiatives, and charitable foundations. What was once viewed as an occasional charitable tournament or holiday drive is now evolving into something more strategic and enduring.
Why? Because member expectations are changing.
Today’s members—particularly the next generation of club leaders—want their clubs to stand for something beyond recreation and hospitality. They value organizations that positively impact employees, local communities, and future generations. In many cases, philanthropy has become an extension of club culture itself.
At the same time, clubs are facing new realities:
- Increased competition for members
- Heightened expectations around employee support
- Greater scrutiny of governance and stewardship
- A historic transfer of generational wealth expected over the next two decades
These factors create both opportunity and responsibility.
The most successful club philanthropy programs are not simply fundraising efforts. They are thoughtfully aligned with the club’s identity and values. Some clubs focus on scholarships for employees and their families. Others preserve historic clubhouses, support youth programs, or establish legacy societies tied to planned giving.
Importantly, philanthropic efforts also strengthen member engagement. Members who feel emotionally connected to the club’s mission often become more invested in its long-term success. Philanthropy creates another avenue for belonging.
The benefits extend internally as well.
In recent years, employee assistance funds and scholarship initiatives have dramatically enhanced club cultures by demonstrating genuine care for staff members and their families. During times of crisis, many clubs discovered that members were eager to support employees in meaningful ways when given the proper structure to do so.
That generosity leaves a lasting impression.
However, philanthropy within private clubs should not be approached casually. Clubs considering charitable initiatives must carefully evaluate governance, legal structure, tax implications, and operational oversight. Good intentions alone are not enough.
The question is no longer whether clubs should engage in philanthropy. Many already are.
The more important question is this:
How can clubs create philanthropic initiatives that are sustainable, meaningful, compliant, and aligned with their culture?
Over the next several articles, we will explore:
- Whether your club should establish a foundation
- Common governance and compliance mistakes
- Planned giving and legacy programs
- Scholarship and employee assistance initiatives
- Best practices for long-term success
Philanthropy is rapidly becoming part of the modern private club experience. Clubs that approach it thoughtfully have an opportunity to strengthen culture, deepen member engagement, and create impact far beyond their gates.
This article is provided as a general educational resource for private club leaders. Neither the authors nor The Club Council are rendering legal, tax, accounting, or other professional advice. Clubs should consult qualified professionals before taking action based on the information presented.
