4 minute read
What Our Partners Are Saying: Defining Philanthropy
During our centennial year, we will include a variety of voices and perspectives from partners about theme’s we are exploring in each issue of PARTNERS in community. For this issue, we asked staff and volunteers to define philanthropy, acknowledging that Grand Rapids Community Foundation’s understanding of philanthropy has evolved. Over the last century, we’ve broadened our perspective to include a spectrum of cultures and giving styles. We asked partners to share why they believed philanthropy was important and what it could accomplish. Some shared with us the culture, lessons and experiences that inspire their generosity today.
Ashley Emaus
Community Foundation financial analyst
What lessons about giving were you taught growing up that inspire your generosity today? “Philanthropy is important because it is a vehicle for us to enact meaningful change quickly that reflects community need. If it is within your power to help, then help. No matter how small or inconsequential it might seem, if we each do what we can to support one another, we all benefit in the end.”
Richard Gillett Sr.
*Deceased, quote from 1973 when he was board chair for the Community Foundation
Lin Bardwell
Fund for Community Good volunteer
How do you define philanthropy and what can it accomplish? “Philanthropy is a colonial construct steeped in imperialism and patriarchy— meaning that those with resources have often “remedied” problems of those with less resources. The answers to problems in marginality are found in the margins. Philanthropy, to me, is being the most human you could possibly be. When worked WITH and IN communities of marginality, great things can be accomplished. True equity can be found by the giving of compassion from those with resources. This can only be done by allowing [grant partners] time to build meaningful relationships in communities.”
Jenifer Jackson
100 New Philanthropist
Describe your giving and how you make giving decisions. “My giving decisions, including time, funding and grassroots hard work, have been in line with the things that have been important to my family over our course of growth. As we grow and learn, we understand where needs are and do our best to support them, to make a difference and to start the ripple or grow the ripple.”
Sergio Cira Reyes
Somos Comunidad Fund volunteer
People of color have a long history of giving selflessly of their time, talents and treasures to pour back into our communities. How have you seen this show up in your personal experience? “I’ve seen philanthropy play out in the Latino community, the Black community, different communities, at different levels. I think people that have grown up under systems of oppression tend to dedicate their lives to changing those systems. They give their entire lifetime to change these systems of oppression. I think that’s one way to give. I also see it person to person, just people giving and helping out their neighbors.”
Noah Chun
Community Foundation trustee
How do you define philanthropy? "Philanthropy is a responsibility. When one has the means to be helping others, it becomes part of the role we play in living in a community. It’s about being sure that we don’t get comfortable once we’re secure; we can only be satisfied once everyone has been accounted for. We all need a little help sometimes. Helping people who need it or ask for it is part of being human."
Marilyn W. Zack
Community Foundation vice president, development
Why is philanthropy important? "Philanthropy brings people from different walks of life together to support a cause that’s bigger than themselves. In doing so, they create a sense of unity and belonging in community. In my experience, people who are philanthropic are committed to learning about the world and the issues we face. Philanthropy helps broaden perspectives and enhances understanding, empathy and enthusiasm for making change."
Kyle Caldwell
Community Foundation, Board of Trustees chair
Why is philanthropy important? "Philanthropy is core to a healthy community and a healthy democracy. Teaching and practicing acts of caring and giving can break down barriers, help us see our shared humanity, give us tools for free expression and bolster our belief in helping others. Philanthropy serves as an essential thread in the tapestry of community life—a bright, strong and valuable resource for communities to advance equity for the common good."
