Philanthropy is part of being a citizen

Changing times call for new approach to ‘giving back’

November is National Philanthropy Month. I feel privileged to have a job where each day I hear from donors about “why” they do what they do. Interests vary immensely, however there are common themes that permeate — social justice, creating a vibrant and healthy community and helping all people reach their potential.

What appears to be changing, however, is the sense of urgency people feel in addressing the things that concern them, moving away from a focus on “giving back” to one that is more intentional and speaks to shaping the future. Similarly, the face of philanthropy is changing. Historically considered the realm of only the wealthy, we are seeing new faces and new strategies.

It seems timely then to reposition how we think and talk about philanthropy. What would happen if Hamiltonians collectively began to consider philanthropy as part of citizenship, not as a separate activity only for those with financial means or time?

When thought of within the citizenship framework, philanthropy would be both the right, and the responsibility, of all of us. Endless possibilities are opened to consider how each of us brings the full range of our resources to bear on the things that are important to us. A philanthropic plan might result in a charitable tax receipt, but would be so much more engaging and satisfying.

A philanthropic plan, building on your personal areas of interest, could weave together a myriad of threads from your life fabric, ranging from activities in which you engage your family, to leveraging your personal and professional networks, to how you allocate your giving and volunteer time.

Recently, I dined with a dozen “next gen” women from our Women 4 Change initiative to hear their views on philanthropy. When asked what this rather old, hard to pronounce word looked like to them, they quickly responded with descriptors such as: progressive, transformative, listening to all voices, focused and driven. Of particular interest was how they described their own philanthropy. Most drew from all aspects of their lives to address the issues they cared about. Yes, they contributed the traditional time, treasure and talent, but beyond that they looked to engage their social and professional networks, leveraging their voice and impact by inviting others to learn and engage in the things they were doing. Their philanthropy was fun and they were making an impact.

Some of Hamilton’s business owners are doing this too. I have had the pleasure of working with three recent donors who have integrated their philanthropy directly into their small businesses. They are using Hamilton Community Foundation as a resource both to have an immediate impact in an area they care about and also to establish a legacy. What is most inspiring is the “why” as described by these independent entrepreneurs. They all express the belief that contributing to the community is integral to who they are as people as well as business owners. Their clients know that a portion of what they pay goes to the foundation, thereby enabling them to participate in philanthropy as well. The business owners describe this aspect of their companies as adding strength and joy to what they do, creating a legacy that enriches both their personal and professional lives.

These are just two examples that illustrate how philanthropy through a citizenship lens can look. The potential benefits — both personally and as a community — are significant.

If being an active philanthropist is part of being a good citizen, it must become part of how we think and act each day. Philanthropy month is a good time to expand this aspect of your citizenship. I invite you to sit down with your family, neighbours, work colleagues or just by yourself and begin to create your philanthropy plan. Start with the “why” that is important to you — and have fun with it.