top of page
EMPOWERING ADVISORS. TRANSFORMING
ATLANTA.

​ACAN (Atlanta Charitable Advisor Network) is dedicated to increasing philanthropic impact across our community. Our year-round events and programs are designed to provide local financial advisors with tools and inspiration to engage their clients in greater, more meaningful charitable giving.

20250424_Balser_Symposium_071.jpg

BENEFITS OF JOINING ACAN

NETWORK

Build connections with other like-minded Atlanta professionals

GROW

Hone your charitable planning skills through expert-lead programs

GIVE

Do good in our community by exploring and supporting local charities

STRENGTHEN

Enhance client relationships by offering value and expert guidance 

OUR STORY

ACAN began with the vision of Jack Balser, who served

for 13 years as the Endowment Director of the Jewish Federation of Greater Atlanta. Jack understood something profound: that the true power of philanthropy lies not just in today’s giving, but in planting seeds for tomorrow. He knew that when we educate and empower both donors and professional advisors, we create a ripple effect that transforms lives for generations.

 

In 2007, Jack's vision grew into a remarkable collaboration: Three of Atlanta's preeminent charitable organizations - The Atlanta Jewish Foundation, Community Foundation for Greater Atlanta, and United Way of Greater Atlanta - came together to offer ongoing professional development for advisors, helping them bring even more value to their clients through philanthropic conversations and legacy planning.

​

In 2023 this partnership was rebranded as ACAN - Atlanta Charitable Advisor Network. Our community now includes over 200 professionals who come together around one shared goal: empowering Atlanta advisors and creating a more just, generous, and charitable city.

Balser-123.jpg

ACAN IS MADE POSSIBLE BY

DESIGN (37).png
3.png

Since 1906, the Atlanta Jewish Foundation has empowered donors, advisors, and nonprofits to turn their values into lasting charitable impact. From donor-advised funds and endowments to restricted funds and legacy planning, our team offers tax-smart solutions to expand your philanthropy and build a vibrant Jewish future in Atlanta, Israel, and globally.

ATLANTA JEWISH FOUNDATION OFFICIAL SITE
DESIGN (37).png
2.png

The Community Foundation for Greater Atlanta is committed to advancing prosperity as we work to strengthen our region, one neighborhood and neighbor at a time. We're taking action to champion equity and lead boldly in collaboration with our partners - including you. So, let’s get ready to grow. Together.

COMMUNITY FOUNDATION OFFICIAL SITE
DESIGN (37).png
4.png

United Way of Greater Atlanta has been serving the community for almost 120 years.

 

We are one of the largest chapters within the United Way Worldwide network of more than 1,700 independent local chapters serving communities across the world.

UNITED WAY OFFICIAL SITE
0040-59745.JPG

ACAN Committee Chair

Mary Frances Callis, Diversified Trust​

​

Committee Co-Chair

Geoff Malcolm, AltaView Advisors​

​

Committee Members

William Thompson, Morgan Stanley

Melissa Sprinkle, Harrison LLP

Shelly Donaldson, Cumberland Trust

Kelly Johnson, Merrill Lynch

Greg Kaufman, Grayscale

bottom of page