The concept of philanthropy too often sparks the thought of old money and a wealthy, aging, white male giving large sums of cash to support good causes. We want to debunk this old image and refresh it with a new and improved version.
Yes, philanthropy can include large financial donations. Philanthropists, as explained by my good friend Merriam Webster describes it as the act or gift made for humanitarian purposes.
In other words, you can be a philanthropist with or without giving money. You can give time. You can create a network that will give back more than you can alone. You can spread awareness. And yes, you can still give money.
People might have different seasons throughout their philanthropic life. There might be times when you are short of time, so you give financially. Seasons when you are short on time yet have the means to donate, so you give financially. Short on both time and money? Participate by enhancing awareness about good causes and volunteer opportunities.
Here are five options to consider if you would like to become a Philanthropist today regardless of your time and financial situation:
1. Throw a Fundraiser
You can choose to support a larger organization such as the Alzheimer’s Association or the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. You can also go rogue. Support a charity of your choosing with a cash donation collected from your fundraising event. Don’t feel overwhelmed. Start small (bottle drive, wine tasting with friends, etc.) and think about options to scale over time.
2. Volunteer Your Time
Pick an organization that is important to you. Reach out to learn how you can best support their mission with a gift of volunteered time. If want to volunteer and don’t know where to start, check with your local United Way office. Want to compound your impact? Invite friends and family to come along. Teaching others about the importance of philanthropy and volunteerism will increase your impact. Plus volunteering can be a fun, free activity with your friends, family and/or coworkers.
3. Use Your Network to Increase Awareness
If you are short on both time and money, help bring attention to local fundraising campaigns with the use of social media. Spreading the word can sometimes have more of an impact than a direct donation. Thinking bigger? Ask your employer if there is opportunity for a corporate donation or if they would support a company sponsored volunteer program.
4. Create a Local Scholarship
Work with your local high school or school district to set the expectations and deliverables. They typically have a standard process that makes setting up the scholarship easy and efficient. If they have proper 501c3 status, your gift should also be tax deductible eligible. You can also contact us and we will by happy to help guide you in this process.
5. Financial Donation
If you want to support the community and currently fall short on time and have the financial ability to do so, give a donation. Be sure to evaluate the charity as not all charities are created equal. Research where the money goes and how your donation will be put to use. Want to multiply your donation? Look for organizations and companies who are willing to match your contribution!
We all can be philanthropists! Evaluate your current situation. Set goals and strive to give all you can!
