Main Menu
Flyout Menu

Supporting Democracy Through Philanthropy

June 9, 2026

at 12:00 pm EST

Guest Speaker(s):
Sofia Michelakis, Managing Director at Phila Engaged Giving; Alexandra Acker-Lyons, Founder of AL Advising
Host:
Andy Stubblefield, PPI Director of Education Programs

Supporting Democracy through Philanthropy will explore effective ways that advisors can approach conversations with clients who are interested in democracy, civic engagement, and political giving during an increasingly complex election cycle.

Many advisors worry that these conversations may feel uncomfortable, polarizing, or outside their expertise. This session will offer practical frameworks, language, and tools to help advisors lean into their strengths: listening well, clarifying values, and helping clients think strategically about impact.

Using a real-world client case study, we will explore how advisors can collaborate with subject matter experts, navigate questions around charitable and political giving, and support clients in developing thoughtful, values-aligned strategies across 501(c)(3), 501(c)(4), and other giving approaches.

Introduction to our Guest Speaker(s)

Sofia Michelakis is Managing Director of Phīla Engaged Giving, a philanthropic advisory firm that helps individuals, families, and institutions align their resources with their values and vision for impact. Sofia has advised hundreds of philanthropists on strategic giving and family philanthropy, and previously served as Deputy Director at the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, where she worked closely with members of the Giving Pledge community. She is known for helping clients navigate complex, values-driven conversations with clarity, curiosity, and practicality.

 

Alexandra Acker-Lyons is a political strategist and advisor with more than two decades of experience working with major donors, campaigns, and progressive organizations across the country. She has helped philanthropists and political donors navigate the rapidly evolving landscape of civic engagement, electoral strategy, and democracy-focused giving. Alexandra previously served in leadership roles with the Democracy Alliance and Young Democrats of America, and currently serves as Political Director for the Electing Women Alliance. She is known for translating complex political dynamics into practical guidance that helps donors and advisors engage strategically and effectively

Member & Guest Webinar Access

Member Webinar Access

PPI Members are not required to pre-register for our webinars. Simply sign-in here to access your login credentials for the next upcoming session. Members will also automatically receive an email with their login credentials and any program materials the speaker has made available prior to each webinar.

Member Sign In
Guest Webinar Access

Not a member? We invite you to join us as a guest for an upcoming webinar to experience the value our programs provide. Simply fill out the form below to request guest access. You are welcome to join us for this webinar at no cost and with no obligation to join. However, we limit guest access to one webinar per year. We invite you to become a member today to gain access to all live and archived webinars.