As catalysts for philanthropy, community foundations can inspire and enable individuals to make a difference where it matters most.
Philanthropy is the desire to promote the welfare of others, typically through donations of money, time or resources. The wealthy are often acknowledged for their philanthropic endeavors, but anyone can be a philanthropist.
Philanthropy is about the spirit of giving and contributing toward the betterment of society, regardless of one’s financial status. Even small acts of kindness and generosity can make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.
How Can I Become a Philanthropist?
Embarking on a philanthropic journey begins when you can identify causes that deeply resonate with your values and passions. Starting small, through volunteering your time or talent, allows for gradual engagement and learning.
Community foundations can play a pivotal role in jumpstarting your philanthropic journey by providing local expertise that helps individuals connect with their community and better understand its unique needs and opportunities. Through resources, knowledge and guidance, community foundations help individuals navigate the philanthropic landscape, identify causes aligned with their interests and develop effective giving strategies. Additionally, community foundations manage funds and administer grants, allowing donors to support multiple causes or organizations through a single charitable gift.
As catalysts for philanthropy, community foundations can inspire and enable individuals to make a difference where it matters most. Joining or supporting a community foundation opens doors to unique opportunities, including impact investing initiatives and collective giving efforts. Community foundations can serve as a platform for individuals to learn, collaborate and maximize their philanthropic impact as changemakers committed to creating positive societal outcomes.
Philanthropy isn’t solely about monetary donations; there are a lot of ways to promote the welfare of others without giving money:
Volunteer Your Time: One of the most valuable contributions you can make is your time. Through volunteering, you can support charitable organizations, community events or initiatives that align with your interests and passions.
Share Your Knowledge and Expertise: Use your professional skills, experience or expertise to mentor others, provide training or offer pro bono services to non-profit organizations. Individuals can even lend their knowledge to community foundations by serving as grant panelists or scholarship reviewers.
Raise Funds and Awareness: Organize fundraising events, charity drives or awareness campaigns to support specific causes or organizations.
Donate Goods or Resources: Instead of giving money, consider donating goods, supplies or resources that can benefit those in need. Items such as food, clothing, books or school or medical supplies can make a significant difference in the lives of individuals and families.
Serving on a Board: Board members play a crucial role in guiding the strategic direction, overseeing the operations and ensuring the financial sustainability of non-profit organizations. Through board service, you could provide leadership, expertise and oversight to support an organization’s mission and advance its impact.
By engaging in these non-monetary forms of philanthropy, you can make a meaningful difference in the lives of others, contribute to positive social change and cultivate a culture of giving and empathy within your community and beyond. FBN
By Lisa Sahady
For more information on charitable giving, including family philanthropy, visit azfoundation.org/legacygiving or call one of the Arizona Community Foundation’s offices serving northern Arizona: ACF of Yavapai County at 928-583-7815, ACF of Sedona at 928-399-7218 or ACF of Flagstaff at 928-526-1956.
Lisa Sahady is the regional director for the Arizona Community Foundation of Yavapai County. She can be reached at 928-583-7815.