What is Philanthropy?

Someone once said it wonderfully well that philanthropy is the mystical mingling of a joyful giver, an artful asker and a grateful recipient.

Philanthropy, also described as goodwill to fellow men and the common good, is the natural act of giving, prompted by a spirit of caring and concern for mankind.  In our society, it is one of our strongest assets and it has contributed to our rich heritage.  This humanitarian trait keeps non-profit organizations alive and it improves society for us all.

Philanthropy is described by many as a three-stage process:  open hearts, open minds, then open wallets.  It is an emotional rather than pragmatic business.  It has to do with our inner-most feelings of compassion, affection for mankind, of wanting to help people in need and of making sure our world will surivive. 

We advance the human condition by what we do.... fundraising is the means by which we do it.

taken from:   A Practical Guide - How to Riase a Pile of Money for a Good Cause - Ebbe Marquardsen