Giving While Living
Generous people usually begin their philanthropy by giving to their favorite worth causes. Many, if not most, individuals with means have practiced giving in various forms: a check to a favorite charity, a table at a benefit to oblige a friend or colleague, a gift to an alma mater, and, perhaps most commonly, a contribution to a religious organization.
Over time, many donors who want to increase their giving choose a focus and become more strategic. In general, Giving While Living involves planning how best to employ one’s resources, talents and passions in giving. Once a donor knows what he or she wants to accomplish, they can develop a plan with realistic goals and benchmarks, follow it through, and enjoy the satisfaction that comes from seeing the results of their investment.
Some reasons for Giving While Living are: the donor can help address urgent problems that require investment now rather than in the future · the donor may feel a sense of obligation, faith-based or otherwise, about sharing their wealth · the donor may wish to personally direct their giving and enjoy the satisfaction that the results bring · the donor may have a desire to use their own skills and experience to tackle problems · the donor may be concerned about “mission drift” after their death · the donor may be confident that future generations will make their own fortunes, and use their money to address the problems of tomorrow · the donor may be concerned that burdening one’s children with excessive wealth will sap their motivation.
Giving While Living can be a powerful tool to help donors look inward and determine their own motivations, expectations and goals.
-Barbara Willyard, CFNEM Executive Director
