Barron J. Damon is a strategic leader in the non-profit sector with 20-plus years of experience as an Executive of a National Non-Profit.  Barron is a Philanthropist, and a Certified Professional Philanthropic Coach through the International Coaching Federation.  He has also been featured in several magazines as well as a special guest on TV, radio shows, and podcasts discussing topics related to philanthropy, youth development, business, and travel. Here, he reveals lessons from Noah's Ark for building a meaningful and impactful legacy for your family. 

A few weeks ago my daughter shared with me that she had met some members of the Rockefeller family. Here it was that my 23-year-old daughter recognised the Rockefeller name 100 years after he became the richest man in the world and his legacy still lives on. As a philanthropic coach, I understand generational wealth from working with clients but I am even more intrigued to learn how everyday families create successful legacies. 

Before there was the DuPonts, Rockefellers, and Mellon's creating legacies through wealth creation there was Noah, a biblical character, and the builder of the Ark. There have been several movies made concerning Noah's Ark including one of my favorites Evan Almighty with Steve Carell and Morgan Freeman. I believe taking a closer look at one of the original legacy builders we can gain some insight into how everyday families can create and leave legacies for our families. 

This article explores the creation of a living legacy inspired by Noah's Ark, presenting six key lessons for building a meaningful family legacy. It covers having a vision and purpose, embracing planning and preparedness, advocating for collaboration with all family members, recognising adaptability in execution, encouraging a mindful approach to decision-making, and celebrating achievements. These lessons provide a roadmap for individuals aiming to leave a lasting and positive imprint on their family legacy.

More than a story

The biblical story of Noah and the ark holds timeless legacy lessons that extend beyond its narrative. Beyond the floodwaters and animals, two by two lies a profound lesson in foresight, planning, perseverance, preservation of history, and the power of purpose-driven action—a lesson that resonates deeply with the creation of a meaningful and impactful family-giving strategy and legacy. As Noah diligently built the ark there are striking parallels to crafting a meaningful and impactful legacy that also nurtures positive change in the world. Here are insights drawn from Noah's journey and a guide for families to start living their legacy now.

Lesson 1: Vision and purpose drive action

Noah's unwavering commitment to building the ark stemmed from a clear vision and divine purpose. Similarly, families aiming to create a meaningful giving strategy must articulate a collective vision—a mission that aligns with their values and aspirations for societal impact. Writing out that vision and mission statement will bring about clarity and direction for many years to come. 

Action steps:

  • Initiate family discussions to uncover shared values and causes of significance.
  • Define a clear mission statement that encapsulates the family's philanthropic vision and purpose.

Lesson 2: Embrace planning and preparedness

Noah diligently followed divine instructions and meticulously planned the ark's construction, embracing preparedness for the upcoming flood. Families must adopt a similarly strategic approach, preparing for their philanthropic journey with thoughtful planning. I can't imagine the number of hours Noah and his family spent in the planning phase of their plan.

Action steps:

  • Conduct thorough research on societal needs, charitable organisations, and causes aligned with the family's mission.
  • Establish strategic objectives and mechanisms for giving, considering the scope and scale of impact desired.

Lesson 3: Collaborate and engage all members

Noah's family played an integral role in the ark's construction, emphasising the importance of collaboration and engagement within the family unit. Imagine the buy-in it took from family members to take on a massive project like building an ark with no rain in sight. Encourage commitment and dedication from each family member toward the philanthropic vision. Engage in open conversations, fostering a sense of ownership and shared responsibility for your family's giving strategy and legacy. In philanthropy, involving all family members creates a sense of ownership and shared responsibility.

Action steps:

  • Initiate inclusive conversations involving every family member to express their thoughts, values, and charitable passions.
  • Create a governance structure or philanthropic committee for decision-making and involvement.

Lesson 4: Adaptability and flexibility in execution

Throughout the construction of the ark, Noah encountered challenges but remained adaptable and flexible in execution. Likewise, families engaged in philanthropy must be open to adaptation and flexibility in their giving strategies. The causes a family started out supporting may change in a few years so being flexible is extremely important.

Action steps:

  • Monitor and evaluate the impact of philanthropic efforts regularly, adapting strategies based on outcomes and lessons learned.
  • Embrace flexibility to refine giving approaches and respond to evolving societal needs.

Lesson 5: Emphasise legacy and long-term impact

Noah's actions extended beyond immediate survival; they left a legacy for generations to come. Families aspiring to create a meaningful giving strategy should focus on building a legacy that transcends their lifetimes, leaving a sustained impact. The best way to leave a legacy is to start living your legacy right now.

Action steps:

  • Instill the importance of philanthropy and values of generosity in future generations through education, involvement, and mentorship.
  • Establish the right vehicle for your family philanthropy for perpetuity, such as creating a donor-advised fund, family foundation, or endowment, to sustain the family's philanthropic legacy.

Lesson 6: Celebrate achievements and milestones

Upon completion of the ark, Noah celebrated the achievement, recognising the significance of milestones in his journey. After the flood waters subsided, Noah reflected on the ark's purpose and the impact of its preservation. Similarly, assessing impact and reflection are vital aspects of family philanthropy. Families engaged in philanthropy should acknowledge and celebrate their successes, using them as inspiration to continue their impactful work.

Action steps:

  • Reflect periodically on the family's philanthropic journey, celebrating achievements, and positive impacts made.
  • Use these moments to reaffirm commitment, inspire continued dedication, and foster unity among family members.

By drawing inspiration from Noah's journey, your family can embark on a transformative philanthropic journey. The story of Noah's Ark offers timeless wisdom that not only transcends generations but centuries, resonating deeply in the context of family philanthropy and legacy leaving a meaningful and enduring impact on the world around them.

Conclusion 

Inspired by the story of Noah's Ark, everyday families can build legacies with these six fundamental lessons that lay the foundation for a lasting impact. Remember, it's not just about what you leave behind in terms of possessions; it's about the values, the vision, and the connections you build within your family. Planning, working together, staying adaptable, making thoughtful decisions, and celebrating achievements are the keys to a meaningful legacy. The power to start is in your hands today – take that step, make a plan, involve your loved ones, and begin the journey of leaving a positive and enduring legacy for generations to come.

Find more about Barron here: www.barrondamon.com.