Yesterday I spoke at our local Rotary Club about my trip to Israel. I traveled to Israel with colleagues from JDLA, which is a consulting group that helps the philanthropic sector reach its potential. A theme of my Israel presentation was philanthropy. Philanthropy at its core means “love of mankind.” When we hear someone being referred to as a philanthropist, often our first thoughts are that “they must give away a lot of money.” However, when you truly love someone, your relationship is more than just giving money.
Leading with Passion
Philanthropy is your specific outlet to show love to other people. What drives you to love another person? It is a passion. So when you think about a focus for your love, what would that mission look like? There are so many outlets and ways to show love to people. In fact, I know that in my small community, there are over 400 not-for-profit organizations. So, when seeking an outlet to demonstrate love for others, go with your passion.
Leading with Money & Time
Giving love to others also goes beyond giving money. Think about it. When you love someone, what other things do you tend to give to them? You give them your time. I know that my kids appreciate it when I give them gifts or money. However, what kids most crave from us is our time. They appreciate it when we serve them or just spend time being with them. When you decide to be a philanthropist remember to give financially, but go beyond. When you are passionate about something, you will also volunteer your time.
Leading with Advocacy
What else do you do when you really love someone? You talk about them and glow when sharing about them. This is called advocacy. A philanthropist shares with passion about their mission. Out tour guide in Israel, Andrey, was an advocate for youth in Israel. When he would talk about serving Israeli youth, you could see the passion flowing out of him. You could also see how this came from him giving of his time to be with youth and using his gifting and talent as a tour guide to take youth on special trips.
Leading with Social Capital
A philanthropist who loves with their treasures, gifts and spirit also gains something powerful. It is called social capital. At the core of loving someone is a relationship. The network of loving relationships focused on a shared vision and values is the powerful social capital of philanthropy. When I was in Israel, I had the privilege of staying with Ann. She is a true philanthropist. Because of her passion for her mission, it shows in her giving of money, time and advocacy. She has built powerful social capital, which she uses to further her mission. In fact one of the NPO’s that she leads is focused on connecting people.
So when being a philanthropist, give fully and completely to what you love. Define your passion and then give of your money, time and advocacy. Build relationships and love one another.
Questions to ponder:
- When you serve on a board or volunteer, is it connected to your passion?
- How do you advocate for the mission of an organization for which you have a passion?