I am impressed with the philanthropists in this community who give their time, talents, and treasures to make a difference. Patti serves as treasurer for an international nonprofit with a local chapter that improves educational projects. Mark takes part in an annual beach clean-up. Sarah donates to support her friend who is running a 5K to support a charity in memory of her mother.
People give at various levels and for various reasons: Paying it forward, believing in the work of an organization, loving the community, remembering a loved one, avoiding taxes, responding to an ask from a friend, etc. No matter the reason, the one thing I have noticed that binds them all is that the giving is personal. Giving creates a feeling of gratitude, and giving back makes people feel good.
The article, Why Giving is Good for Your Health (Cleveland Clinic, October 28, 2020) reports that giving:
- Improves your mental health
- Lowers stress levels and blood pressure
- Can help you live longer
- And makes you happier
One of the best parts of my job is connecting donors with the best funds for them. It might be helping a donor give to an existing fund. Sometimes, it means listening, understanding their intent, and helping them create a new fund that will impact something they are passionate about. Either way, matching our donors with the funds they care most about creates a win-win situation for both the donor and the cause.
I have received thank you notes from the cause affected by the gift and from the person who gave it because the process has left them both feeling terrific! The “do good – feel good” emotions are documented by researchers (like Michael Steger or David Myers) to be real.
What is important to you? Consider improving the community and yourself by grateful giving. It feels good!