For families
The family charter: how values pass on with the wealth
A family charter is a written description of what a family values and how it decides. How to write one, keep it alive and involve the next generation.
7 minMANIFESTOI editorial
What is a family charter?
A family charter is a document in which a family writes down what it values, how it makes decisions and what it wants its wealth to achieve. It isn't a legal document but a shared language. The legal structures – ownership, a foundation, a will – are made with advisers. The charter explains why they're made.
Why don't values pass on by themselves?
Children learn values by watching. It's a powerful way to learn, but it has two weaknesses. First, the child sees the actions but not the reasons. Second, the child also learns what the parent never meant to teach – the hurry, the absence, the fact that work wins over the evening.
Written down, values can be talked through. The next generation can ask, question and make them their own – rather than simply inherit them.
What goes into a family charter?
A good charter is short. Five chapters are enough to start:
- Who we are – the family's story on one page
- What we value – three to five values, each with an example in action
- How we decide – who decides what, and how disagreements are resolved
- What we want our wealth to achieve – giving, enterprise, education, health
- How the next generation is involved – responsibilities by age, a voice in the council
How does a family council work?
A family council is a regular gathering where the charter is written and reviewed. The first one matters most: the values are said out loud and everyone says what they mean to them. What the young say often surprises – they've learned more than their parents thought.
A good rhythm is four times a year: one chapter at a time, and the whole charter once a year.
How does the charter stay alive?
In three ways:
- Decisions are tied to values. When the family makes a big decision, it records which value the decision rests on.
- Time capsules and letters. A parent writes a letter that opens on an agreed date – for example when a child turns twenty-five.
- Presence is measured. Family evenings, one-on-one time and a phone-free night are the everyday form of values. When they're visible, they happen.
What about a foundation?
Many families want to establish a foundation or fund at some point. The charter is its best foundation: it says what the foundation should support and why. The legal structure is made with your own advisers.
How does MANIFESTOI support the charter?
In MANIFESTOI the charter is a manifestation like any other: an eight-stage chain, chapters as steps, the family council as a ritual and evidence in the log. The writing workshop holds time capsules that truly open only on the agreed date, future history and a letter to a loved one. Family members have their own workspaces, and private stays private.
Read more for family and legacy or apply for membership.
Frequently asked
What is a family charter?
A written description of a family's values, how it makes decisions and what it wants its wealth to achieve. It's a shared language, not a legal document.
How often should a family council meet?
A good rhythm is four times a year: one chapter at a time, and the whole charter once a year.
At what age should children be involved?
As soon as they can talk about values – with responsibilities growing with age. Many families start in the teenage years with a voice in the council.
Membership is granted by application. The investment is discussed personally once the fit is confirmed.
