Buff Kavelman, The Kavelman Group
The Kavelman Group Philanthropic Advisors builds strength and lasting impact in the nonprofit world. Founded by Buff Kavelman in 1997, our consultants have extensive senior-level experience spanning both the funding and the nonprofit management sides of philanthropy at some of the country’s leading institutions such as the American Academy in Rome, Asia Society, National Endowment for the Arts, Rockefeller Foundation, Smithsonian Institution and Columbia University, as well as in the private philanthropic divisions of U.S. Trust and J.P. Morgan.
For each client we develop a customized scope of work based on their mission and values, current objectives, resources and timetables. Over more than two decades, we have demonstrated that this developmental approach leads to strong philanthropic results and long-term impact. We take great care to provide excellent service in everything we do. As a result, most of TKG’s work comes to us through client referrals.
Philosophy/Approach: As a boutique consulting firm, all of TKG’s clients receive from personalized, direct senior staff services. By design, we do not manage assets as this allows us to focus solely on our clients’ philanthropic needs. Our services have been a catalyst for significant growth and positive change for a broad range of philanthropic clients across the country and in 45 countries to date. TKG’s services are tailored to meet the specific needs of individual donors, public and private funders, and nonprofit executives and boards in the areas of strategic planning, governance, philanthropic initiatives, and program development.
Types of clients: Private foundations, Community foundations, Individual donors, Small to mid-size nonprofits, Major nonprofits, Universities
Issues/Focus: Arts & Culture, Environment, Global, Health, Social
Specialization: TKG’s clients include: individual donors and families; foundations and trusts; private banks and wealth management firms; family offices; and nonprofit institutions/NGOs We help clients launch new initiatives, develop lasting partnerships, grow organizational capacity and build engaged, effective governance. Our clients represent such diverse fields as arts and culture, environmental conservation, public health, social justice and global understanding. They represent all scales of organizational development, from small, start-up ventures to established institutions with long traditions of community service.
References provided upon request, based on specific field and type of project.
Buff Kavelman, The Kavelman Group
