Philanthropy Is Only For The Rich

A philanthropist is a person who seeks to promote the welfare of others, especially by the generous donation of money to good causes, at least according to Wikipedia. The word philanthropy really is broken down to mean a lover of humanity.

By adding the "especially by the generous donation of money" we rob people of claiming the identity of being generous or becoming a philanthropist when, "one day when I have enough money and then I will give".

The scene above from the movie Schindler's List is one of the most memorable scenes showing the impact of a man's generosity. Schindler saved an estimate 1,200 Jews from being slaughtered and the bar of "philanthropy" has been set high. The man in the scene gives Schindler a ring and quotes a Jewish saying...

and whoever saves a  life, it is considered as if he saved an entire  world.

However, the beauty of this saying, and its humble and powerful value proposition is that it focuses on the impact of one life. Whoever saves a life, it is considered as if he saved an entire world.

Let's give our children the identity of philanthropists even though they may not have anything to give but smiles or hugs. One who loves humanity and lifts it up is where this journey begins. Let me challenge you to lower the bar and expectations to become a philanthropist, because once we claim this identity we can grow and learn to become more and more generous with our time, energy, and resources.

Philanthropy is not only for the financially rich, but for those who are rich with empathy, gratitude, and generosity.

Give something away today and join me in the ranks of Philanthropy.

Please share your thoughts and let's help create a movement of generosity together.

Cheers Friends

Josh

Helpful Resources for Nonprofits from my friends at NextAfter:

• How is our fundraising performing: See how you stack up to industry standards
• Report: Why should I give to you rather than any other organization, or not at all?