Philanthropy is a rewarding but challenging field that requires constant learning and improvement. You can benefit from the insights and experiences of other philanthropists who share your passion and vision. But how do you find and connect with them? Here are some tips to help you engage with other philanthropists and learn from their experiences.
One of the easiest ways to meet other philanthropists is to join online platforms and forums where they gather and exchange ideas. You can find communities related to your specific cause, region, or approach, or join more general ones that cover a range of topics and perspectives. Online communities can help you discover new opportunities, resources, and best practices, as well as offer feedback and support. You can also participate in online events, webinars, and podcasts that feature philanthropy experts and leaders.
Philanthropy in its purest form means "love of humankind." How each person approaches philanthropy is different and is dependent upon what we feel personally connected to. Think of nonprofit organizations you currently support through your time (volunteering), talent (services/pro bono work), or treasures (donations). These organizations serve as an excellent platform for you to connect with other philanthropists. Nonprofits often look for ways to keep their donors and volunteers engaged. Proposing opportunities for involvement such as a "philanthropy advisory group" or offering to host a donor gathering is a win-win for both you and the organization.
Another way to engage with other philanthropists is to attend offline events, such as conferences, workshops, and networking sessions. These events can help you expand your network, learn from speakers and panelists, and have face-to-face conversations with like-minded people. You can also showcase your work, seek collaborations, and find mentors or partners. You can look for events that are relevant to your field, interest, or level of experience, or explore new ones that challenge your assumptions and expose you to different perspectives.
If you are a person holding wealth, and seeking to become a philanthropist, I would gently suggest don’t hang out with other people of wealth. Find gatherings that talk about the work you want to see in the world. Try not to create a wealth echo chamber. Start locally, begin asking those who are in need what they actually need, where they find help, and what they find unhelpful. For my work, I don’t necessarily wander with other fundraisers. I attend social justice gatherings, radical urban gardening groups, permaculture initiatives, community table work of all kinds. Where do you wander to fill your cup?
A peer group is a small and informal group of philanthropists who meet regularly to share their experiences, challenges, and learnings. A peer group can provide you with a safe and supportive space to discuss your goals, strategies, and dilemmas, as well as receive honest and constructive feedback. You can join an existing peer group that matches your criteria, or create your own with people you trust and respect. A peer group can help you deepen your relationships, improve your skills, and enhance your impact.
Another way to learn from other philanthropists is to follow thought leaders who inspire and inform you. Thought leaders are people who have extensive knowledge, experience, and influence in the field of philanthropy. They can be practitioners, researchers, authors, activists, or media personalities. You can follow their blogs, newsletters, books, podcasts, or social media accounts, and learn from their insights, opinions, and stories. You can also engage with them by commenting, asking questions, or sharing your own views.
Cyndi Suarez and the work of Nonprofit Quarterly are a great place to start your journey as a justice-oriented philanthropist who seeks to move in solidarity with the organizations closest to your heart. Make sure your foundation is set firmly upon guiding principles in sharing your wealth, clear objectives and anti-racist practices. Your power and privilege have impact, you get to decide if your impact uplifts or creates harm. This work is not easy, is not comfortable, but it can be transformational if you have a growth mindset that allows for “as I know better, I will do better.” The process isn’t perfect, but this is the work.
A mentor or a coach is someone who can guide you, advise you, and help you grow as a philanthropist. A mentor is usually someone who has more experience and expertise than you, and who can offer you wisdom, inspiration, and connections. A coach is someone who can help you clarify your goals, overcome your challenges, and develop your potential. You can seek mentorship or coaching from someone you admire, respect, or aspire to be like, or from someone who has a different background, style, or approach than you.
Finding an equitable and just way to share your wealth requires thoughtful engagement. I encourage all the philanthropists I work with to first do some research on the dysfunctional aspects found in giving away wealth. A great place to start is by checking out the nonprofit movement Community-centric Fundraising (CCF). Their CCF Principles document is a great way to consider a values approach to your giving. In particular, check in to and understand how your own power and privilege can create a harmful dynamic in the organizations you are partnering with. Unrestricted giving is a key way to begin supporting the entirety of an organization, not just your particular interests.