The word philanthropy is derived from Greek words generally meaning love of mankind or love of humankind, and is broadly defined as an active effort to foster and provide for the welfare of others.
Most people think of philanthropy as only giving large amounts of capital to good works for the benefit of society, thus outside the realm of the average person. If so, philanthropists would only be those who possess great wealth and are able to pursue these noble interests on a grand scale.
However, being a philanthropist is within the reach of each and every one of us, of any age, ability or capacity, who chooses to enhance someone's quality of life, help those in need or benefit the community and the world. Any offering that benefits another can be an act of philanthropy, thus anyone can be a philanthropist by merely sharing and caring for others.
Philanthropists are those who give what they have through contributions of money or other resources; themselves by volunteering time, talent, skills or expertise; acts of kindness, encouragement and compassion or through the thoughtful donation of precious anatomical gifts during their lifetimes and beyond, ultimately even giving themselves for others.
Everyone has something to give. Giving enriches the lives of those who give as it benefits those who receive.
Giving is empowering and consuming. The more you give, the more you want to give. Many claim experiencing what researchers call a giver's high, a euphoric physical response much like a runner's high.
Studies show that family members, friends, neighbors, colleagues and fellow workers who come together to volunteer their time and efforts and contribute their resources to help others also experience grateful contentment, more purpose and joy and better health in their own lives. What better gift could we share with others than to nurture their caring spirits and generous hearts for a lifetime of purpose and joy?
In these challenging times, people yearn to feel connected, but are often hesitant to reach out for the acknowledgement or consolation they so desperately need.
You can practice the spirit of philanthropy by being the one who reaches out first to give words of encouragement or a warm smile when you feel it would be appreciated. You also can give friendship and hope where you sense there is despondency or despair and you can give support while honoring and respecting the rights and freedoms of others.
Embrace philanthropy, the love of humankind in your heart, and you will receive the joys of giving. I promise it will make a difference in the world and your life.
Start by making your own promise to consciously give the gift of one good deed each day, no matter how small or seemingly insignificant, that will help someone else in some way. It might be the only gift they receive.
As Mother Teresa said, “We cannot do great things, only small things with great love.”
Most people think of philanthropy as only giving large amounts of capital to good works for the benefit of society, thus outside the realm of the average person. If so, philanthropists would only be those who possess great wealth and are able to pursue these noble interests on a grand scale.
However, being a philanthropist is within the reach of each and every one of us, of any age, ability or capacity, who chooses to enhance someone's quality of life, help those in need or benefit the community and the world. Any offering that benefits another can be an act of philanthropy, thus anyone can be a philanthropist by merely sharing and caring for others.
Philanthropists are those who give what they have through contributions of money or other resources; themselves by volunteering time, talent, skills or expertise; acts of kindness, encouragement and compassion or through the thoughtful donation of precious anatomical gifts during their lifetimes and beyond, ultimately even giving themselves for others.
Everyone has something to give. Giving enriches the lives of those who give as it benefits those who receive.
Giving is empowering and consuming. The more you give, the more you want to give. Many claim experiencing what researchers call a giver's high, a euphoric physical response much like a runner's high.
Studies show that family members, friends, neighbors, colleagues and fellow workers who come together to volunteer their time and efforts and contribute their resources to help others also experience grateful contentment, more purpose and joy and better health in their own lives. What better gift could we share with others than to nurture their caring spirits and generous hearts for a lifetime of purpose and joy?
In these challenging times, people yearn to feel connected, but are often hesitant to reach out for the acknowledgement or consolation they so desperately need.
You can practice the spirit of philanthropy by being the one who reaches out first to give words of encouragement or a warm smile when you feel it would be appreciated. You also can give friendship and hope where you sense there is despondency or despair and you can give support while honoring and respecting the rights and freedoms of others.
Embrace philanthropy, the love of humankind in your heart, and you will receive the joys of giving. I promise it will make a difference in the world and your life.
Start by making your own promise to consciously give the gift of one good deed each day, no matter how small or seemingly insignificant, that will help someone else in some way. It might be the only gift they receive.
As Mother Teresa said, “We cannot do great things, only small things with great love.”