Family Foundations Community of Practice

Within our diverse network of funders at Catalyst, we recognize the importance of spaces where members can simply connect, strategize, and collaborate in an intentional and open environment. Our Communities of Practice bring together similarly structured Catalyst members to do just that.  

We are excited to convene family foundation leaders in this dedicated space. Whether you engage in philanthropy as an individual, through a family foundation, or via a donor-advised fund, this is an opportunity to connect with peers and explore ways to maximize your impact.  

Our first gathering will focus on how to integrate non-family perspectives into your foundation’s work. We’ll be joined by Sarah Walczyk, Executive Director of Satterberg Foundation, who will share her experience as the first non-family staff member at Satterberg. With 12 years of experience in her role, Sarah will offer insights into what she’s learned along the way. She’ll also answer your questions and discuss important topics, including: 

• What are the benefits and challenges of involving non-family members? 

• What roles can non-family members take on, from staff positions to advisory roles?  

• How can family members effectively navigate the family dynamics and establish trust?  

This gathering is designed for and by its participants – we will dedicate time to hear from you and collectively decide what to explore in future sessions. Lunch will be provided. 

Target Audience

This program is designed for members of Catalyst. If you are interested in Catalyst membership, please contact [email protected].

Catalyst is committed to making our events accessible to everyone. Please let us know how we can help you fully participate by contacting [email protected]. 

Speakers

Sarah Walczyk | Executive Director of the Satterberg Foundation

Sarah (she/her) has spent more than two decades working in the Seattle non-profit and philanthropic sector as a volunteer, fundraiser and grantmaker. Sarah is passionate about progressive social change and is committed to using her platform to advocate for trust-based, philanthropic practices. Sarah became the first non-family staff member when she joined the Satterberg Foundation in 2013, as a Program Officer and Administrator. Since 2016, as the Executive Director, Sarah has led the foundation through extreme growth that includes increasing the annual giving from $300k to $50 million with a focus on multiyear, unrestricted support that prioritizes community accountable organizations who are working at the intersection of social and environmental justice.