The Gavel: The Intimacy of Philanthropy
Source/Author: Tom Andrews, Board of Trustees Chair
May 06, 2016
Ahh, there is that word – intimacy. It took me more than 30 years before I knew the actual meaning of the word. My wife and I had two kids before I knew what being intimate with someone really meant, and how necessary it was to achieving a fulfilling life.
What does intimacy have to do with philanthropy, you ask? Well, I would argue a great deal. There are articles and books written on the subject of philanthropy and everyone, it seems, has sage advice for us to follow. Very smart people have advocated giving to charities that have donor directed funds, only giving to those that assign a certain dollar amount per benefiting individual, or perhaps just picking the charity that has the lowest overhead costs and therefore, supposedly, the most charitable effect for your dollar.
I like to think of philanthropy as building up something you can look at, evaluate, and witness. If it helps, think of philanthropy as a local phenomenon. Making your community better for others. 'The rising tide raises all boats' sort of thing.
Some wish to pass on their wealth to their children and their children. There is a reason that Bill and Melinda Gates and Warren Buffett choose to give away most of their wealth. They know providing too much for their kids does not nurture a sense of drive and ambition to build something of their own. In fact, I think it does the opposite. I think it provides built-in complacency, with little need for commitment, hard work and the value of accomplishment.
There is no better gift you can give than one of education. Philanthropy directed toward a school such as ours may provide a scholarship that allows a financially struggling student to attend and succeed. It may outfit a classroom, provide for faculty professional development or build an entire building. Regardless of the recipient, the effort will stay local and benefit the community as a whole.
It only takes one student to become the next innovator, actor, musician, scientist or teacher who could change thousands of lives - all because you believe in keeping your philanthropic efforts local. Something you can watch grow, nurture, and therefore, be a part of. In other words, something with which you can be intimate.
