Happy Birthday Philanthropy! Now STAY Inspired!
Philanthropy is “the love of humankind.”
National Philanthropy Day® (NPD)—November 15—is the day that thousands of people around the world come together to celebrate philanthropy. I share a birthday with NPD and thus get to celebrate each additional candle with some pretty amazing folks!
Every year since 1986 when President Ronald Reagan first proclaimed November 15th as National Philanthropy Day®, communities across the globe have hosted events to recognize activities of donors, volunteers, foundations, leaders, corporations, and others engaged in philanthropy. In 2012, Canada officially recognized NPD.
P-Day focuses attention on the power and joy of philanthropy. Crisscrossing the country this month, I led workshops empowering folks to practice EFFECTIVE philanthropy at five different celebrations! Guess who got the MOST inspired? ME…from all of YOU! WOW!
Yes, it’s our award recipients that always do the most effective teaching – living to give generously.
Jim Victor, Outstanding Volunteer Fundraiser at the AFP Quad Cities event, paid tribute to the professional fundraisers present, “You give wings to my dreams – to my work!”
“I’m in awe of the lives that you folks in development help us touch,” said Outstanding Philanthropist Hunt Harris.
“Give us BIG VISIONS and we will help” promised Outstanding Philanthropist Pat Lloyd in Sioux Falls.
Hurrah for everyone honored at these events!
You see the challenges – and focus on the solutions.
You see the obstacle — and focus on the answers.
You see the setbacks – and focus on the successes.
Hmmmmm…couldn’t this be YOU? Here are 3 Steps YOU can take to extend P-Day throughout the year!
1. Let Philanthropy Day launch YOUR year of focusing on solutions, answers and successes.
2. Let your amazing mind marinate on how you can take your successes and turn them into something truly significant – for your mission, your neighbor, your community, and for the future.
3. Create YOUR P-Day Collection! Keep notes, emails, and begin to write out those, “WOW” comments givers, other staff, board members and volunteers have said in your world. Commit to reading them weekly.
I believe in you and I thank you!
