Authors Jerry J. McCoy and Kathryn W. Miree have transformed their work experience into a book worthy of having on any philanthropic bookshelf. Mr. McCoy is an independent attorney in Washington D.C. involved in charitable tax planning, with law degrees from Duke University and New York University. Ms. Miree is the president of her own consulting firm, and has a law degree from the University of Alabama School of Law. She gives lectures on nonprofit management and fundraising.

According to recent Foundation Center data, there are close to 3,000 active family foundations in the United States. Yet, there are still many families with a sense that they want to share their good fortune but with little knowledge on how to proceed. The idea of starting a foundation to do something good for society is very appealing but can also be problematical if that individual or family does not have access to the proper tools or resources. One might start by asking questions like: Is a foundation the best means for my family to give money to charity? How do I find out about what tax documents I am required to file? How do I manage distribution of grants? And who should be in control of the foundation?

The Family Foundation Handbook is designed to help families find answers to these and similar questions. The Handbook is a compilation of valuable legal, tax-related and programmatic guidelines and suggestions for families (and their professional advisers) who are interested in starting a family foundation. The book is comprised of nine chapters beginning with an introductory chapter that explains its main purpose. Chapters 2 through 6 explain how to establish and fund the foundation, as well as how to run it with the appropriate personnel. Chapter 7 focuses on the essential aspects of grantmaking, such as grants to organizations or individuals, and program-related investments — this valuable chapter also delves into establishing a distribution policy, creating a grants application form, and selection of grant recipients. Chapter 8 focuses on fiduciary issues, including keeping accurate records of foundation expenses, grantmaking activities, and investments. Chapter 9 deals with concerns that may arise within the foundation, such as conflict resolution and successful public relations.

While the text is very detailed, it is made more approachable by an abundance of examples, diagrams, and other illustrations. At the end of each chapter, sample documents, such guidelines, rules, and policies, are given. The table of contents is well laid out so that someone already somewhat familiar with family foundations, or someone who doesn't have time to read the entire book can look at and find relevant sections immediately.