Philanthropist Takes Hands-On Approach to Giving

Since he retired from Family Dollar in 2003, Leon Levine has transferred his man-on-the-scene approach in business to the foundation that bears his name.

“Leon’s gone after philanthropy in much the same way as he did making money,” said Hugh L. McColl Jr., former chief executive of Bank of America, which is based in Charlotte. “He sees donations as investments in worthwhile projects, he does a lot of due diligence when looking at potential recipients, and he’s diligent about holding their feet to the fire about doing what the money is supposed to do.”

So it came as no surprise when Mr. McColl, after soliciting Mr. Levine to participate in an arts campaign in 2010, was presented with a counteroffer, a quid pro quo. Mr. Levine would make a sizable donation to the arts campaign if Mr. McColl would help raise funds for an antipoverty initiative. “Typical Leon negotiating tactics,” Mr. McColl said.