Is Philanthropy Going to the Dogs? Hudson Institute to Host Discussion on Leona Helmsley’s Bequest and Donor Intent

When Leona Helmsley died last year, she left all but a few million dollars of her perhaps $8 billion estate to the Leona M. and Harry B. Helmsley Charitable Trust, making it easily one of America's largest foundations. She also left a document indicating that the entire trust be used for the care and welfare of dogs. "The trustees recently hired a philanthropic advisory service to help them figure out a way to remain true to Mrs. Helmsley's intentions while at the same time pursuing broader charitable goals with her foundation," reported the New York Times.

On Friday, September 5, Hudson Institute's Bradley Center for Philanthropy and Civic Renewal and The Chronicle of Philanthropy will host Ray Madoff and Leslie Lenkowsky, who have written about Helmsley's bequest in the New York Times and Chronicle of Philanthropy, respectively. Joining them will be Georgetown University's Pablo Eisenberg and Hudson Institute's Judge Robert Bork.

The discussion will focus on the fundamental questions Helmsley's bequest raises about donor intent, social justice, and the public interest. The Chronicle's Stacy Palmer will moderate the discussion. Please visit www.hudson.org for more information.