Foundations and endowments have very long time horizons. By nature, they persist through the comings and goings of staff, clients, Executive Directors and Boards of Directors. Investment policy must reflect the importance of the long view while simultaneously responding to the immediate needs of your institution and its constituencies.

Many foundations and endowments have volunteer Boards of Directors. Board members are an essential institutional resource, with varied and significant skills. They may have strong relationships with both donors and the political community. Their time is frequently very limited. Board members want (and the organization wants) the time they contribute to have maximum positive impact on the institution they serve. Board members contribute most when they can be making policy and forging, building, and leveraging relationships.

Many foundations and endowments have limited budgets. Thus, a critical tension: purchasing routine services can be expensive, but asking Board members to perform these services can distract them from potentially more valuable roles and push them beyond their comfort zones.

Your organization may find that a small expenditure can resolve this tension in at least one area – investment management. Sensible Financial can apply its capabilities on your behalf, taking fiduciary responsibility for managing your organization’s assets consistently with its mission and objectives – at a very reasonable cost.