Making the Transition from Charitable Giver to a Philanthropist

What on earth is a philanthropist?

What does that even mean?

In the media, philanthropists are often portrayed as white men and women with exorbitant wealth who spend their time going to galas and naming libraries after themselves. Now, this can be partly true. 

However, in a time when wealth has been diversified and the needs of our society are so great, it’s more important than ever that people of color with the means and motivation to create impact, begin to see themselves as philanthropists. 

The distinction between being a philanthropist and a charitable giver is unclear to most people and is dependent on one's intentions and motivations.  In our monthly Philanthropy 101 workshop, we discuss the differences and benefits of becoming a philanthropist through your giving. Let’s look through its lens of motivation, scope,  and involvement. 

Motivation

Charitable Givers: A desire to help others or contribute to a cause without necessarily requiring deep personal involvement. You add a dollar to your bill at the grocery store or you’re donating annually to your alma mater when the envelope comes in the mail. 

Vs. 

Philanthropists:  You seek a long-term, more strategic approach to your giving. You’ve noticed the need of your local community and want to make an effort to address the root causes to create lasting change. 

Scope

Charitable Givers: You may make a donation in response to an emergency or immediate need (think disaster relief), support specific projects through a one-time donation, or contribute to fundraising campaigns. 

Vs. 

Philanthropists: While there is a significant financial contribution, you also may donate your time, skills, and expertise to your cause or non profit organizations. The generosity that you extend goes beyond financial giving.  You intend to impact systemic and structural changes and call for the influence of others in the cause. 

Organizational Involvement 

Charitable Givers: Make financial contributions but do not typically partner with organizations or get involved in the work of their missions.

Philanthropists: Are actively involved in the organizations or causes they support, participate in decision-making, volunteer their time, and collaborate with other stakeholders.

Layo Philanthropic Partners helps individuals like you align your values and build strategic plans to direct your philanthropic giving. Once you have a plan, we help direct your giving to non-profit, often grassroots, organizations that are making a difference in the communities they serve. 

We all have the ability to be philanthropists creating a long-lasting impact on the missions that we deeply care about. 

 The world is waiting for you. 

Get started today by attending one of our workshops or building your Joy-Based Giving Strategy.