CTW Issue #5: Don't you think the world could use a few more philanthropists?

Today, I found myself thinking about the definition of the word philanthropy. Many people immediately think of philanthropy as the domain of the super-wealthy and the powerful, legends whose last names grace buildings and fund groundbreaking research.

While there are many ways to officially define philanthropy, not one definition that I've ever read includes a minimum net worth. With Greek etymology that literally means 'love for humanity,' philanthropy is accessible to anyone. I particularly appreciate this definition of the word from fidelitycharitable.org ;

"Today, philanthropy means generosity in all its forms and is often defined as giving gifts of 'time, talent and treasure' to help make life better for other people."

Who among us has not spent the last few weeks saying to themselves, "What do I do now?" I know that I have, over and over, as I sit at my desk and contemplate the absurdity of trying to conduct business as usual .

I don't claim to have any answers, but if I know one thing it is this:

In times of crisis, we are all required to step up to the best of our abilities, using whatever resources, wisdom, skills, and talents we have at our disposal.

Why stress using the word philanthropy in this context instead of other words that encapsulate similar ideas? Generosity, charity, and kindness are just a few words that come to mind.

Because philanthropy is not just a noun; it's an identity. If you're not sure what I mean, compare these phrases:

"I am a generous person."

vs.

"I am a philanthropist."

One is a character trait; the other is a way of life. A generous person – or a kind person, or a charitable person – will help out in a crisis. A philanthropist, on the other hand, will step up. A philanthropist will use critical thinking to discern where their time, money, or efforts will be maximized. They're not concerned with making themselves feel good or alleviating guilt. Their only consideration is making a difference, whether that difference is on a communal level or affects just one individual.

Don't you think the world could use a few more philanthropists?

Fortunately, we know now that the world has a lot more than a few philanthropists. There are people who seemed completely ordinary only a month ago and are now literally moving heaven and earth to help where they can. In a time of such darkness and hate, this gives me so much hope.

Here are this week's practical takeaways.

For Nonprofits

I've always found it incredible that small shifts in thinking can lead to tremendous change. This applies to life in general but holds tremendous power in the nonprofit sector, where outdated thinking imposes unreasonable limits at every turn.

If you are reading this and you are a non-profit founder, leader, board member, employee, volunteer, etc, then I have news for you! By devoting your time and energy to your mission, you have identified yourself as a philanthropist. I want to take this a step further. Not only are you a philanthropist, but all of the people who support you in your mission are also philanthropists. Think of the incredible potential you have when you all come together. Are you tapping into this potential, or are you coasting? Are you problem-solving, or are you just jumping from crisis to crisis? You might have decided to put some of your typical year-end fundraising activities on hold for now and have some extra time on your hands. If so, use it wisely. Here are a couple of suggestions:

• Focus on strengthening your relationship with your existing community of supporters. (Many would call this 'stewardship,' but that's a conversation for another time.)
• Reach out to rebuild relationships that you've lost over the years
• Consider how you might build relationships with corporate sponsors

With life feeling so uncertain, people want to connect. A phone call, a coffee date, or an intimate gathering can be the ideal setting to do so. These small investments in your relationships can end up having a tremendous impact on your future efforts.

For Businesses

The topic of corporate philanthropy is a true passion of mine. I've written about it extensively in previous newsletter issues and posts, so I want to focus on what is specifically relevant now.

Our community organizations are, for the most part, going to struggle with fundraising for the foreseeable future, as hearts and minds across the globe are focused on the war and its terrible side effects.

The opportunity for businesses to fill the vacuum is tremendous. If there is an organization that you've supported in the past or feel particularly connected to, reach out to them. They may not have thought to ask, but you can very likely help them with their fundraising gaps while significantly helping your own bottom line.

(If you do this, it would mean the world to me if you let me know. You can message me privately or join my upcoming Whatsapp community for businesses for more details.)

For Community Leaders and Changemakers (and everyone else)

There is no wrong way to show support in a time like this, whether it is a donation of any amount, volunteering your time, donating goods, or writing letters to soldiers; it is all amazing, and it all matters.

There is, however, more than one right way, and if the idea of being a philanthropist appeals to you, read on.

The question I am really asking myself is, how can you be an effective philanthropist in a time of crisis? This is something I'm going to need to explore more, but here are my initial thoughts.

• While everyone else responds, you can anticipate. What is needed today is clear, but what might be needed in a few weeks, a few months? What can you do now to help prepare for that time?
• Instead of spreading yourself thinly, choose an area where you feel that you can contribute the most and focus your efforts there.

If you have any other thoughts on the subject, I'd really love to hear them!

Thanks for reading,

Tzivia Cohen

A few reminders:

• Never miss a future issue! Subscribe here .
• If I can help you or your nonprofit during this time, please don't hesitate to contact me on LinkedIn or via email at [email protected] .
• If you have any suggestions for topics that you'd like me to address in future issues, don't hesitate to DM or send me an email at [email protected] .
• You might also be interested in my podcast, where I interview nonprofit leaders, so click here to check that out.
• Just a reminder that my primary day job is running 14Minds . We partner with nonprofit organizations, mission-driven businesses, philanthropists, and community leaders who refuse to accept the status quo. Click here to see if you'd be a good candidate to work with us, send an email to [email protected] , or give me a call at 516.590.0073x102.