Grace and Gratitude: A Philanthropy Revolution Reminder

As Thanksgiving approaches, I find myself reflecting on two powerful forces that fuel not only philanthropy but life itself: grace and gratitude. These quiet pillars underpin the most meaningful relationships and the most transformative giving.

In the rush of year-end campaigns and the noise of holiday plans, let’s take a moment to center on these values—and challenge ourselves to bring them to the forefront.

Grace: The Art of Giving Without Strings

In philanthropy, grace is too often an overlooked concept. It’s about giving with an open heart, free from judgment or expectation. Grace means looking beyond the transactional nature of a donation and embracing the human connection at its core.

This has been a season of change for me personally—losing loved ones, becoming an empty nester, and stepping into the exciting new role of grandmother for the first time. These milestones remind me that grace is essential not just in giving, but in receiving. Whether it’s receiving support, love, or the gift of time, it’s a practice that sustains us during life’s transitions and deepens our relationships.

Grace isn’t just about money. It’s in how we show up for each other: extending patience to a friend in need, volunteering at a local shelter, or holding space for someone to share their story.

This Thanksgiving, let’s remember that grace isn’t limited to donors or fundraisers. It’s a practice that can enrich every relationship we have, in and out of the giving sector.

Gratitude: The Fuel for Lasting Relationships

Gratitude is a word we hear often this time of year, but I believe it’s a practice we should live daily. Gratitude isn’t just about saying “thank you”—it’s about showing appreciation in ways that are personal and genuine.

In Philanthropy Revolution, I emphasize how nonprofits can foster gratitude through thoughtful communication. That doesn’t mean sending a standard thank-you note or a meaningless trinket. It means taking the time to understand how your donor or volunteer likes to be recognized—and honoring that.

As I prepare for this new chapter in my own life, I’m more aware than ever of the importance of pausing to appreciate the people and moments that shape us. Gratitude isn’t only for big milestones. It’s also for the small, everyday gestures that bring joy and connection.

A Challenge for the Season

As you gather with loved ones this Thanksgiving, I challenge you to infuse your giving—of time, resources, or money—with grace and gratitude. Imagine the ripple effect if every donor, fundraiser, and nonprofit leader embraced these values with sincerity and heart.

Grace reminds us to give without expectation. Gratitude ensures that giving is celebrated and appreciated. Together, they create the foundation for a philanthropy revolution—one that is driven by relationships, not transactions.

This holiday, let’s #SaveGiving by reimagining how we give and how we thank. Let’s be bold enough to lead with grace and brave enough to show gratitude.

Wishing you and your loved ones a Thanksgiving filled with abundance, joy, and connection.

One step closer to saving giving,

—Lisa

Thank you to everyone who has joined us as a premium subscriber! Your support makes it possible to dive deeper into the conversations shaping the future of philanthropy.

Premium subscribers are invited to our exclusive monthly Power Hour, where I lead thought-provoking discussions with industry leaders on the most pressing topics in giving today. These interactive Zoom sessions are your chance to connect, learn, and collaborate with like-minded changemakers.

Not a premium subscriber yet? Upgrade your subscription now to join the next Power Hour and gain access to all premium content!

As always, my newsletters will remain free of charge—because saving giving starts with everyone.

Thank you for being part of the revolution!

—The Philanthropy 451 Team