Klementina S.

After 17 years as a development officer (fundraiser) for social impact organizations, I resigned from my position to open my own philanthropic advising practice, focused on helping philanthropic individuals live their life’s purpose through their giving.

On one of the last days at the office, I was chatting up with a colleague. She had bought a new piece of art with a quote from Andy Warhol:

They should teach a class on love in first grade.

I have been thinking about that quote since.

I felt that quote so strongly.

And as it turns out, the quote has everything to do with philanthropy.

Philanthropy comes from the Greek words philos which means love and anthropos which means humankind.

Philanthropy, at the core, is all about love and loving others.

Philanthropy is how we live a life well-lived—a life of meaning and purpose—a life where we have a positive impact on others. 

Here are three questions about philanthropy we should think about and three more on how to find our purpose so we can live it through our giving…

What is philanthropy?

The act of philanthropy is when you leverage your being – time, talent, treasure, ties, testimony and truth – to support the betterment of others.

Why should we do it?

Easy. It feels really good to help other people. A life well-lived, after all, is having a positive impact on others. (Google the benefits of being philanthropic!)

How can we do it?

To better understand what truly matters to you and to help articulate your purpose, consider thinking about the following three questions:

1. What causes or issues inspire me to take action? 

2. When have I felt most fulfilled or proud of the difference I’ve made? 

3. How can I use my unique skills, experiences, or resources to create a positive impact in my community or the world?

Philanthropy, therefore, isn’t just about giving money. Philanthropy is about giving of yourself while being yourself.

Philanthropy is about integrity – where there’s alignment between who you are and how you are showing up in the world.

Because when you show up in alignment and full of integrity, there’s self love first and foremost and then the love of others through your living of your purpose.

So, the final question becomes: do you know who you are and what you care about?

Understanding yourself and your purpose is essential before engaging in philanthropy because it ensures that your giving is intentional (on purpose), authentic and aligned with your values, allowing you to make a meaningful impact.

On the next page, I would like to share a values exercise with you, to help you clarify your values. This exercise is inspired by Brene Brown, professor, author and researcher on courage and vulnerability, and 21/64, a non-profit specializing on next generation philanthropic engagement.