Sports Philanthropy Interview-Super Bowl 59-RR-Andrew Morton
Andrew Morton from Handler Law, LLP joined Roy Kessel and Sports Philanthropy Network on Radio Row at Super Bowl. Andrew shared his insight into the challenges athletes face when starting nonprofits, the importance of legal compliance in philanthropy, and alternative ways athletes can make an impact without creating their own foundations.
Andrew Morton
Andrew Morton is a leading nonprofit attorney and partner at Handler Law, LLP, specializing in sports philanthropy and charitable organizations. With extensive experience in nonprofit law, he advises professional athletes, entertainers, and high-profile individuals on structuring and managing their philanthropic efforts effectively. His work ensures that athletes maximize their charitable impact while remaining legally compliant, avoiding common pitfalls that can lead to financial, legal, and reputational risks.
Throughout his career, Morton has worked with hundreds of athletes and celebrities, guiding them through the complexities of nonprofit management. He emphasizes alternative structures such as donor-advised funds and fiscal sponsorships, which allow athletes to engage in philanthropy without the administrative burden of running their own foundation. His expertise helps athletes leverage their platforms for good while minimizing the risks associated with mismanaged charities.
Beyond legal consulting, Morton is a vocal advocate for education in sports philanthropy, encouraging leagues, teams, and advisors to provide better resources for athletes interested in charitable giving. He frequently speaks at industry events, sharing insights on how athletes can create meaningful impact through well-structured philanthropic strategies. His dedication to responsible and effective charitable giving has played a crucial role in shaping the way athletes approach philanthropy.
Handler Law, LLP
Handler Law, LLP is a Chicago-based law firm known for its expertise in nonprofit law, tax, estate planning, and corporate legal services. Recognized as one of the top private client law firms in the United States, the firm specializes in advising affluent families, family offices, and high-profile individuals, including professional athletes and entertainers. With a strong focus on sports philanthropy, Handler Law provides strategic legal solutions that help clients establish, manage, and sustain impactful charitable initiatives.
One of the firm’s key strengths is ensuring legal compliance and financial sustainability for nonprofit organizations. Handler Law assists clients in navigating complex legal structures such as donor-advised funds, private foundations, and fiscal sponsorships, allowing them to engage in philanthropy effectively while mitigating risks. By leveraging these structured giving models, the firm helps athletes and other public figures make a difference without facing the administrative and regulatory challenges associated with running a nonprofit.
Handler Law, LLP is also a thought leader in the nonprofit sector, frequently advising clients on emerging trends in philanthropy and best practices for charitable giving. The firm’s commitment to legal excellence, innovation, and ethical philanthropy has earned it multiple accolades, including recognition as Best Tax Firm in North America in 2023. With a reputation for providing tailored legal services, Handler Law remains a trusted partner for individuals and organizations looking to create long-lasting social impact.
WATCH INTERVIEW
0:01 – Andrew Morton joins Roy Kessel at Radio Row to discuss his role as a leading nonprofit attorney working with athlete foundations.
1:02 – Many athletes want to give back but lack the knowledge of how to start a foundation correctly, often leading to compliance issues.
2:04 – Athletes do not always need their own foundation; donor-advised funds, fiscal sponsorships, and direct fundraising can be more effective.
2:55 – Sports leagues and teams educate players on financial planning and agents but rarely provide guidance on philanthropy.
3:28 – Alternative structures like donor-advised funds make it impossible for athletes to violate nonprofit laws, ensuring compliance.
4:00 – Many athletes start foundations with great intentions, but lack of knowledge can lead to financial, legal, and reputational risks.
5:00 – Public perception of athlete foundations is often misunderstood, and concerns over compliance can discourage philanthropy.
6:23 – Social media and earned media provide athletes with powerful platforms to promote philanthropy, increasing their impact.
7:50 – Legal and reputational risks arise when nonprofit organizations are not properly managed, as seen in past athlete foundation scandals.
9:46 – Education and structured guidance can help more athletes engage in philanthropy without fear of legal trouble or negative publicity.
