NextBillion - An Initiative of the William Davidson Institute at the University of Michigan

Tuesday, March 3, 2015

One of the greatest challenges for philanthropy today is the very term itself –philanthropy. Chances are that when asked, most people would associate the word with wealthy individuals writing big checks to charity. Yet, look up the word and etymologically, it simply means a “love of humanity.” Call me a sap, but I’ve always believed most people have a love of humanity somewhere in their hearts. In practice, this love can be expressed by helping others through the contribution of time, money or other forms of support. Put simply, if you’ve done something to help another, you are a philanthropist.

Some might say we have a bit of branding problem — or maybe we simply need to embrace the real meaning and challenge one another to practice a sort of “everyday giving” — where all individuals do their part. Help a neighbor, volunteer for a cause that lets you do what you love and enjoy, or simply contribute or donate at a level that’s comfortable to a cause you care about. Would it make a difference in our ability to tackle society’s greatest challenges if everyone practiced this kind of “everyday giving”? The answer is yes. The following are five things you may not have known about philanthropy. In understanding this, people will see themselves as philanthropists. Envisioning the power and potential of your own personal philanthropy — and everyday acts of kindness — can change the world.