Insights

True Wealth Goes Beyond Financial Success

At HORAN Wealth, we believe wealth encompasses more than just numbers on a balance sheet. True wealth is about living an abundant and productive life—one that fosters family unity, shared purpose, and a lasting legacy. 

• Abundant Wealth: Financial success that enables freedom, security, and fulfillment. 

• Productive Wealth: The intentional use of resources to create a lasting impact—for your family and for the world. 

For over 75 years, HORAN has not only helped families grow and preserve wealth but has also embodied the power of giving. Since our inception, we have supported organizations across our region—from the arts to education to emerging nonprofits—investing our time and talents. These values are ones we share with many of our clients who are equally committed to making a difference.

A Unique Opportunity in the Great Wealth Transfer

We are at a defining moment in history. Over the next two decades, an estimated $84 trillion will be transferred from Baby Boomers to younger generations (MarketWatch, February 2025). This shift is more than just a financial transaction; it is an opportunity to shape the legacy that families leave behind. Research indicates that by the third generation, 90% of affluent families lose both their wealth and their connection (Lowthrop Richards, August 2024). The missing piece? A shared sense of purpose beyond financial assets.

Philanthropy as a Bridge Across Generations

Families that prioritize structured, intentional giving not only preserve their financial legacy but also strengthen their relationships. When philanthropy becomes a family tradition, it fosters:

• Stronger Family Bonds: Collaborative giving improves communication, strengthens relationships, and aligns generations around shared values.

• Financial Stewardship: Teaching younger generations about philanthropy helps them develop financial literacy, decision-making skills, and responsibility.

• A Multi-Generational Legacy: Instead of simply passing down wealth, families who engage in philanthropy pass down values, leadership, and a commitment to impact.

The Transformative Power of Family Philanthropy

The influence of family philanthropy in the United States is profound:

• Significant Contributions: In 2023, individual and family giving accounted for 67% of total U.S. charitable contributions, totaling $374.40 billion (Indiana University, Lily School of Philanthropy, June 2024).

• Educational Support: Private family foundations provide substantial funding annually to scholarships and academic programs, empowering future generations through education. 

• Community Revitalization: Family-funded initiatives in housing, economic development, and social justice have led to lasting improvements in communities nationwide.

Beyond financial contributions, structured and consistent philanthropy has led to: 

• Medical Advancements: Family donations have been pivotal in funding research that resulted in treatments for diseases such as cancer, Alzheimer’s, and various genetic disorders. 

• Educational Opportunities: Scholarships and educational programs funded by families have opened doors for countless individuals, fostering innovation and progress. 

• Community Revitalization Efforts: Investments in local projects have transformed neighborhoods, creating safer and more vibrant communities.

Best Practices for Meaningful, Multi-Generational Giving 

For families aspiring to make philanthropy a cornerstone of their legacy, consider the following strategies: 

• Make Giving a Family Tradition: Establish annual family meetings dedicated to philanthropic efforts. This practice encourages open dialogue, aligns charitable goals, and involves all generations in decision-making. 

• Align Philanthropy with Your Family’s Values: Identify causes that resonate with your family's history, passions, and long-term objectives. This alignment ensures that giving efforts are both meaningful and impactful. 

• Structure Giving for Longevity: Consider creating endowments, donor-advised funds, or private family foundations. These vehicles provide a structured approach to giving, ensuring sustained impact over time. 

• Involve the Next Generation Early: Engage younger family members by assigning them leadership roles within philanthropic projects. Early involvement fosters a sense of responsibility and prepares them to continue the family's legacy of giving.

Join Us for an Exclusive Conversation on Family Legacy & Philanthropy 

HORAN Wealth is proud to host Fostering Connection, Unity, and a Legacy of Generational Wealth—an invitation-only event designed for affluent individuals, business owners, and families who seek to preserve and grow their wealth across generations. 

Keynote Speaker: Susan R. Schoenfeld, JD, LL.M., CPA, MBA Susan Schoenfeld is a nationally recognized thought leader and advisor to ultra-affluent families. Specializing in legacy, governance, and leadership succession, she will share expert insights on navigating family dynamics and sustaining generational wealth—essential topics for families aiming to ensure their legacy endures. 

Join an exclusive gathering of like-minded families and business owners for an invitation-only evening of insights, connection, and forward-thinking strategies that strengthen family unity and financial legacy. 

Reserve Your Place:

This private event is designed exclusively for HORAN Wealth clients who are committed to shaping a meaningful and lasting legacy. If you are interested in attending, please contact your advisor or email us at PrivateWealth@horanwealth.com.

HORAN Wealth is the marketing name of HORAN Securities, Inc. ("HSI") and HORAN Capital Advisors, LLC ("HCA"). Securities Offered Through M Holdings Securities, Inc., a Registered Broker/Dealer, Member FINRA/SIPC. HORAN Wealth Management ("HWM") is the investment advisory firm. HCA is an affiliated investment advisory firm.

The information herein has been obtained from sources believed to be reliable but we cannot assure its accuracy or completeness. Neither the information nor any opinion expressed constitutes a solicitation for the purchase or sale of any security. Any reference to past performance is not to be implied or construed as a guarantee of future results. Market conditions can vary widely over time and there is always the potential of losing money when investing in securities. HORAN Wealth and its affiliates do not provide tax, legal, or accounting advice. This material has been prepared for informational purposes only and is not intended to provide and should not be relied on for tax, legal, or accounting advice. You should consult your own tax, legal, and accounting advisors before engaging in any transaction.