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Shorten the Learning Curve
Some Suggestions
A new wave of philanthropists is gaining the attention of non-profit organizations. These new donors are young entrepreneurs who are making their wealth in the high-tech arena. They
are giving their wealth away, but are doing it very differently from previous generations. For example, they are more interested in causes (like the environment, education and children’s
issues) than in organizations. They like to be involved in a hands-on way. And they don’t like slick solicitations.
Many live insulated lives, and are unaware of those in our society
who are locked into a life of poverty, crime, failing families, joblessness and deplorable housing conditions. However, Scripture calls on us to care about those in need. In order to do that,
it may be necessary to become pro-active to discover the needs which exist in one’s community, the country and the world.
How might someone increase their awareness of issues and what
is being done to address them?
- Talk with pastors of inner city churches about community needs and what their congregations are trying to do to address them.
- Talk with staff members of local
foundations, or with the "allocations" director of the local United Way.
- Take a "vision trip" to the inner city or to a third world country.
- Seek out
advisors with varied backgrounds who are involved in philanthropy.
- Meet with the staff of non-profit organizations which are involved in their interest areas. Ask what the needs
are, what works and what doesn’t and why.
- Volunteer for a project which sounds interesting.
By becoming knowledgeable and personally involved, they will be better able to direct their contributions and monitor results from their "investment" in their communities
and the world.
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