The Power of Everyday Philanthropy: Why you don't need millions to make a difference
Philanthropy has often been seen as the domain of the wealthy—a privilege reserved for those with vast resources. This perception is understandable when we think of early philanthropists like the Carnegies and Rockefellers, or even modern philanthropists like MacKenzie Scott. These donors, whose legacies include entire library systems, fully funded foundations, 7-figure gifts, often make philanthropy feel unattainable. But when we limit “real” philanthropy to these large-scale efforts, we overlook the tremendous impact of everyday giving.
In reality, seven in ten households donate to charities, showing that philanthropy isn’t just for the elite; it’s a practice embraced by most. This inclusivity is what fuels my passion for the work I do—knowing that anyone can be a philanthropist and that each gift, no matter the size, supports meaningful causes and creates tangible change for those served by nonprofits.
At its core, the word philanthropy means “love of humanity.” This spirit is what makes giving so impactful—whether it’s your time, talent, or financial resources. True philanthropy isn’t defined by dollar amounts; it encompasses all the ways we contribute to the well-being of our communities and the world.
Look around and notice the diverse ways people give:
Rounding up purchases at a store to support local food banks
Dropping change in a bucket to fund basic needs programs
Families volunteering to cook and serve meals for those in need
Young professionals volunteering on boards and sharing their expertise
Each of us can give back in our own way. Philanthropy is an assortment of generosity, with endless opportunities to get involved and support causes close to our hearts.
That said, with so many meaningful ways to give back, it can be challenging to know where to start. This is where a giving strategy can elevate both your satisfaction and your impact. A plan helps you clarify your goals, focus on causes that resonate most, and ultimately make the greatest difference.
While businesses often take this approach, individuals don’t always engage in giving as strategically. But adopting this mindset can be a game-changer for personal philanthropy. Here are three ways you can be more strategic with your giving:
Identify Your Core Causes: Decide which issues or areas matter most to you, whether it’s education, healthcare, or environmental conservation. You can’t solve every problem, which do you care about the most?
Maximize Your Impact: Being focused in your approach means you’re contributing to areas where you feel your gifts will make the greatest difference.
Make a Plan: There’s immense satisfaction in knowing your gifts are thoughtfully directed, creating the kind of change you envision. Planning ahead allows you to be ready when the opportunity arises.
A giving strategy doesn’t need to be complex; it’s simply about bringing purpose to your philanthropy. However, having a plan in place can help gain clarity around how you’d like to respond when opportunities arise. It allows each gift you make, no matter its size, to be deeply aligned with your personal goals and values. Taking a bit of time to reflect on where you want to make an impact helps ensure your efforts are as meaningful as possible and those projects and programs you care deeply about get priority in your giving.
Imagine a world where everyone sees themselves as a philanthropist—a world where each person gives in ways that feel meaningful and impactful. That vision is what drives me. My hope is for you to recognize the power you hold to make a difference and to take that first step toward creating a thoughtful giving plan aligned with your values.
If you’re ready to start your journey, consider joining The Good Philanthropist community of everyday philanthropists by signing up for the newsletter. You’ll receive tips, strategies, and inspiration to help make the most of your giving. You can also book a discovery call to explore how we can support your goals or follow along on social media for more insights on maximizing your impact.
Together, let’s make a difference—one intentional gift at a time.