Q
What are the main drivers clients should consider when choosing a particular charity or line of charitable donations?
A
It’s first important to identify and understand what philanthropy means – and crucially, what it doesn’t mean. It’s not simply a case of throwing money at a problem; it’s about making a meaningful impact and creating positive changes in our society and environment.
The Bible tells us that we are here to help make the world a better place, and have a moral obligation to do so. Those of us who have won the prize of wealth should consider what this means above and beyond simply writing a cheque.
When considering how your clients might become involved in charitable causes, you should start by establishing their skills and interests, so that the causes they choose align. For example, if they’ve made their money in tech, could they donate time and guidance, as well as finance, to tech non-profit start-ups? Are they interested in the environment, and could they support educational programmes? Or are they simply parents who want to be involved in the care of young people who might not be thriving due to social, environmental and/or economic factors?
Choosing a cause that resonates allows clients to connect on a personal level, channelling their enthusiasm and skills towards making a difference. This has so many benefits, from the involvement itself to the message it sends to the involved parties’ communities, families, and children regarding their money – not to mention the fact that the key to happiness really is in helping others.
Our society values money and time, although not exclusively. Time is a powerful philanthropic tool; one should not think it the exclusive domain of wealthy people. Being generous with your time is one of the greatest gifts mankind can offer. By sharing with others who are not so fortunate – and this can simply be giving the best education as a school teacher, or the best medicine as a doctor – huge value is added to societies. In the UK, and under the reign of Queen Elizabeth and more recently King Charles, a huge number of charities have thrived – from helping wounded soldiers, to supporting the unemployed youth, to the homeless crisis, and ensuring food is available to all. These charities succeed because ordinary people like you and I donate their time – and it is these people who are the heroes of philanthropy, just as much as the people who donate the capital.
There are many incredible charities across the planet and by spending some time understanding your clients’ passions, you can help them make a genuine difference and leave a lasting legacy of positive impact.
