JH Philanthropy: Aligning Values, Families, and Impact

From Left to right, Erin Gollhofer Selfridge, Hannah Kaplan, and Julie Hoffmann

Philanthropic advising isn’t about writing checks. It’s about writing a story—one your family can stand behind for generations.

That’s exactly what JH Philanthropy helps families do. They describe themselves as a nonprofit-centered philanthropy advisory, which sounds technical until you see it in action: pulling chairs around a kitchen table, listening first, and translating values into a giving plan that truly moves money to impact.

Founded in 2019 by Julie Hoffmann, JH Philanthropy grew out of two decades of experience in venture philanthropy and nonprofit leadership. Her insight was simple: most families don’t need more noise; they need a trusted process.

Slow down. Name what matters. Communicate. Then build a strategy with structure, governance, and a rhythm for reflection that can be repeated year after year.

I sat down with Julie and Erin Gollhofer Selfridge, Managing Director of Philanthropic Services, to talk about their work and the trends they’re seeing in philanthropy.

A friend introduced me to Julie when I first started my business, and watching her company grow has been inspiring. Erin joined the team a year ago, but listening to them together, you’d think they’d been collaborating for decades.

Based in Dallas, Erin brings over 20 years of experience leading purpose and social impact strategies for brands like Starbucks, AT&T, and Kimberly-Clark. After years in corporate social responsibility, she was drawn to JHP’s human-centered approach.

“In corporate philanthropy, success was measured in metrics and PR,” Erin shared. “Here, it’s about connection. We focus on the why behind every grant and the learning that comes from the process. It’s more personal—and more powerful.”

That blend of corporate structure and entrepreneurial heart has helped JH Philanthropy grow nationally. The firm supports families and foundations across the country, often partnering with wealth advisors, estate planners, and registered investment advisors ria's) to create cohesive, values-driven giving strategies.

From Vision to Values in Action

JH Philanthropy does much more than advise on grants, they help families define their purpose, navigate complex family dynamics, and design systems for shared decision-making that endure across generations.

“Our work often starts around the kitchen table,” Julie said. “We meet families where they are, literally, and help them discover what generosity looks like for them.”

The team uses tools like 21/64’s values cards and one-on-one interviews to uncover each person’s motivations. It’s not about telling families what to fund—it’s about helping them rediscover why they want to give.

That process often leads to surprising alignment.

“Once families articulate their shared values,” Julie noted, “the conversations become less about money and more about meaning.”

Family First — Always

When asked what surprises people most about family philanthropy, Julie smiled.

“That even in families with significant resources, the dynamics are deeply human,” she said. “The same personalities, the same need to be heard and respected. Money may change the tools, not the emotions.”

That empathy shapes everything at JH Philanthropy, from individualized family interviews to ongoing coaching. Each project has two staff members to ensure multiple perspectives and consistent support. And every conversation centers on values, not egos.

“People want to be seen,” Julie explained. “Our role is to create space where every voice is heard and where giving becomes joyful, not stressful.”

The Next Generation of Giving

Both Julie and Erin push back on the idea that younger generations are less philanthropic.

“They’re actually more intentional,” Erin said. “Young donors want transparency, data, and real outcomes. They’ve grown up questioning what they see online, so when they give, they want proof their dollars are making a difference.”

Julie added, “The next generation are smart and strategic donors. They’re curious, informed, and not afraid to ask tough questions, and that’s good for everyone.”

Abundance, Collaboration, and What’s Next

At its core, JH Philanthropy operates from an abundance mindset.

“There’s more than enough work to go around,” Julie said. “We don’t see competitors, we see collaborators. Our job is to help activate generosity, not hoard it.”

That philosophy has led to meaningful partnerships across the philanthropic ecosystem—from nonprofits and wealth advisors to fellow consultants. As the firm continues to grow, Julie and Erin are refining their model, adding structure while keeping humanity at the center.

“The impact is real,” Erin said. “We help families move money into communities in ways that feel authentic and lasting. And when we see a client light up because they’ve reconnected to their purpose, that’s why we do it.”

Final Thoughts

In a time when philanthropy can feel driven by headlines and hashtags, JH Philanthropy stands out for something quieter, and far more enduring: helping people give from a place of clarity, compassion, and conviction.

Or as Julie put it best: “We help people live their values out loud.”

To learn more about JH Philanthropy, visit their website: https://www.jhphilanthropy.com/

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I help nonprofits raise more money through education, coaching, and strategic planning. I also lead high-impact professional development, coaching programs, and retreats for companies of all sizes. If you’re ready to strengthen your fundraising strategy, turn board members into advocates, or build a comprehensive legacy giving program, let’s talk.