Philanthropy Reimagined
We believe philanthropy is most powerful when it reflects who you are and what you stand for. Our work is rooted in the belief that wealth should move in service of equity, justice, and human connection.
We steward authentic connections between donors and social sector leaders to help donors be active participants in creating a more just and equitable world. Our leadership team brings over 90 years of collective experience shaping philanthropic strategy at the highest levels–across major foundations, family offices, nonprofit leadership, and social enterprise. Unlike traditional advisory firms, we’ve sat on all sides of the philanthropic table: as grantmakers, fundraisers, trustees, entrepreneurs, and trusted guides to some of the world’s most generous families. As a result of our deep experience with communities and nonprofits, our advice is not only technically sound, but also grounded in the realities of those who are leading the impactful work fueled by philanthropic funding.
We understand that every client has a story, whether driven by family values, a belief in human potential, or a commitment to justice. We help them write the next chapter, turning their vision into lasting impact.
"The philanthropic sector is at a tipping point. Unlocking more capital will determine whether we hold onto the social progress of the last few decades or lose ground. There is no better time than now to act boldly, fund differently, and support the most vulnerable. The choices we make now can ignite lasting change and help build a more just and generous future."
Stephanie Ellis-Smith
CEO and Founder
Here's How We Got Started
Since our inception in 2017, Phīla Engaged Giving has been on a relentless pursuit of excellence, guided by a vision to foster transformation – both within the philanthropic sector, and in the families and organizations we serve.
Phīla Engaged Giving is born
Inspired by helping distribute a charitable estate, Stephanie Ellis-Smith creates Phīla Engaged Giving as a philanthropic advisory based in Seattle.
Progress amidst upheaval
The COVID-19 pandemic hits and George Floyd is murdered at the hands of Minneapolis police. Phīla’s clientele doubled, particularly among donors driven to give quickly with an equity lens.
Expanded expertise and reach
Janell Turner and Lauren Janus officially join Phīla, expanding our capacity to serve more clients. With many of these relationships now outside the Pacific Northwest, we opened a Chicago office to better support our growing national footprint.
Deploying new levels of capital
Phīla supports clients in deploying $80 million in philanthropic capital. The firm doubles in size by adding Sofia Michelakis as managing director, Mark Greer as a philanthropic advisor in the Midwest, and additional client advisors.
Rooted in Equity
Focused on Transformation
Our practice is grounded in judgment-free understanding. We meet each client where they are, help them overcome obstacles, and accompany them on their journey to reach new levels of generosity and impact. We use our sector knowledge to guide clients in audacious thinking and adaptive problem-solving.
Mission
Our mission is to cultivate informed, active, and joyful givers who are equipped with the tools and concepts to become meaningful partners to organizations and movements that are affecting social change.
Vision
Our vision is to foster transformation–both within the philanthropic sector and (within) the families and organizations we serve. We work toward a world where philanthropy is a nurturing and equity-centered practice that releases wealth to the people and communities who need it most.
Photos on this Website
The images on this website are real people and places touching our lives. Our ancestors, clients, and community partners are all part of the Phīla extended family, and it is in their honor that we are privileged to show up every day. We thank and recognize the organizations that have contributed images displayed:
Asian & Pacific Islander Americans in Historic Preservation
Columbia Riverkeeper
Hey Benji Foundation
Mujeres in Action Spokane
The Share Fund
The Way to Justice
Viva Farms
SELECTED AWARDS
Stephanie Ellis-Smith, CEO and Founder, Phīla Engaged Giving
Phīla Engaged Giving