Kaky Grant
Principal | Grant Philanthropic Advisors
This month we shine the spotlight on our friend, colleague, and Learning Community member Kaky Grant. A 20-year veteran in the field of philanthropy, Kaky’s ethic of giving back was instilled in her at an early age by way of her parents and grandparents living on Lookout Mountain, TN.
“My absolute hero has to be my grandmother. She was a woman of grace, full of love and always stood strong in her values. She was a rock in our family and a beacon in our community. Every Sunday night, we’d gather around the dinner table, where we’d dive into deep conversations about everything from world politics to local community issues. And let me tell you, my grandmother always had a fresh, out-of-the-ordinary viewpoint that made me see things differently. I often find myself wishing I could ask her how she would navigate the complexities of today’s world and how she’d suggest we mend our divides.”
Kaky’s career in philanthropy started in Washington, DC at the Smithsonian National Zoo and The Field School. For 15 years, she worked as a consultant for CapDev, helping nonprofit organizations across the Southeast develop capital campaign and major gift strategies.
In 2019, Kaky launched the advisory practice Grant Philanthropic Advisors, with a mission to help families unlock their philanthropic potential. “I consider myself a connector. I find immense joy in fostering connections between philanthropic families and nonprofit leaders and organizations that share the same values. Equally rewarding is assisting in strengthening family ties across generations and branches. Witnessing relationships thrive based on generosity reinforces my passion for this work.” This year, Kaky and team launched “The Social Good Map,” a unique tool that helps clients track giving over time. It provides quantitative data and equips donors with deep insights that empower more strategic decisions.
When asked how 21/64 has informed her work, Kaky had this to say: “Our approach at GPA is rooted in the 21/64 method (I participated in the 21/64 Approach training in NYC March 2020 immediately before the world shut down). I deeply appreciate the feedback loop concept. Offering a glimpse into how every family member approaches their philanthropic values and interests at a specific moment is a significant ‘level set’ that is vital to a solid planning process. This step sparks meaningful conversations at the family table, leading to impactful philanthropic strategies. As Sharna says, ‘Go slow to move fast!’ We live by this advice.”
Kaky lives with her family in Charleston, SC. She shared this photo with us and had this to say about it: “Here is my family doing what we love! Hiking and backpacking. We snuck away for a few days in June and literally unplugged. What we all needed!”