Philanthropy is an activity that promotes the public good and enhances the quality of life for many people. Community philanthropy focuses solely on doing good for a local community. This community may be a village made of 100 residents or a small town consisting of 10,000 residents. Once people understand the importance of philanthropy, they should learn how to get more involved.
Types of Community Philanthropy
The different types of philanthropy vary by the type of social problem involved. Some philanthropists focus mostly on promoting medicine by funding healthcare facilities. Other philanthropists invest in education by sponsoring scholarships for local high school or college students. Others sponsor programs that focus on eliminating hunger and homelessness in the community.
Benefits of Community Philanthropy
Community philanthropy tends to be more effective when it’s done locally instead of nationally. Local volunteers show up to a location in person and do the hard work themselves. Volunteering is less effective when volunteers only have to do research or create a few newsletters without stepping out from behind their computers. Community volunteers are able to make speeches, hold public protests, teach classes, visit churches, hold interviews and perform a wider range of activities.
Which Activity to Choose?
The type of community philanthropy to undertake in a local area depends on one’s personal interests and geographic location. The main fact to remember is that it’s not necessary to be rich to be a philanthropist. Donating thousands of dollars every year, or even hundreds of dollars is not necessary to become a well-known philanthropist. Anyone can get started by writing a blog, hosting a fundraiser or social event, or starting a crowdfunding page online. Another option is to volunteer in person for organizations that sponsor causes for specific communities.
Philanthropy is more in-depth and hands-on than charity. It includes a great deal of community service and activism that requires the help of local volunteers. Philanthropists raise money for major causes that will benefit a community for many years and decades to come. This includes building hospitals, funding undergraduate programs, renovating roads, planting trees and other meaningful activities. Anyone can get involved to help the community in any small or big way that has a lasting impact.