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According to Webster, the definition is as simple as “a desire to help mankind.” In our world of hectic work schedules, running our households, helping friends and family with projects, and oh yes, taking care of those wonderful little people, we call our children, the last thing most of us are interested in is venturing beyond our world to “help mankind.” It’s not because we don’t think it’s important or know that others less fortunate need our help; it’s just that we have our own lives to be concerned with.
To some, the word philanthropy is equated with being badgered for a monetary donation for a specific cause. We have all had the phone solicitation during dinner which goes something like “Hello Mr/Mrs X, I’m calling to see if you can help us out this year with a small donation.” This is usually what gives philanthropy that bad reputation and one of the reasons Caller ID was invented. The reality is that the nonprofit world would not exist if it were not for generous individuals, groups, and corporations who help further the cause of many of these worthy endeavors.
I was at a party recently where I was asked what I do for a living. I offered that I am the executive director of a nonprofit dealing with kids and cancer. It was interesting to see the reaction of those in my circle and this sense of having to tell me what a noble job I had and how they wished they could get the satisfaction I must have on a daily basis. I tried to keep it simple by saying that it’s just another job that needs to be done and it just so happens that I have chosen that pursuit as my career. I’d be lying if I didn’t say that I truly enjoy what I do and making a difference in anybody’s life is kind of special.
When I have the opportunity to discuss my organization or others which I am familiar with, I let people know that being philanthropic does not mean that you have to bankroll the whole organization. I let people know that many nonprofits would rather have you donate in kind services such as
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products or prizes for an event, office supplies, or best of all your time and talents. What I mean by this is giving of your time, even small amounts of time, which may be valued many times over by the organization you are helping out. Without the help of many hands, the work does not get done easily and the value you can offer cannot be measured in dollars.
During these tough times ahead, know that you may or may not be in a better place than your neighbor, but do know that your concern and efforts can go a long way in helping make this a more philanthropic world and make you feel better knowing you are a part of it.
Pete is the Executive Director of Friends of Camp Mak-A-Dream, Michigan Chapter, a nonprofit camp located in Montana for children, teens, and young adults with cancer. Pete resides in Royal Oak with his wife Pat, and children Anna, Claire and Nick. |
