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Many people think you need to be a billionaire to make a difference. But how does philanthropy work for regular people?

The truth is, philanthropy work is not just for the very rich.

In fact, the role of the individual in philanthropy is crucial—individual donors can make a significant difference through their own charitable contributions, whether large or small. True philanthropy is about using what you have—whether it’s money, time, or skills—to help others.

Altruism, or selfless concern for the well-being of others, is a key motivation behind philanthropy. This means that individuals are often driven to give by a genuine desire to help, regardless of their financial status.

Giving can be a part of everyone’s life. As the book Giving Is Not Just For The Very Rich explains:

“People who give are usually happier than those who do not.”

When you understand how philanthropy can fit into your life, you can start making a tangible impact on the world.

The Heart of Giving is More Than Money

Practical philanthropy work starts with a simple idea: passion.

You give your best when you care deeply about a cause.

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Focusing on a specific cause can make your philanthropy more meaningful, whether it’s helping animals, supporting education, advancing healthcare, or fighting a disease that has affected someone you love.

You don’t need to write a massive check because your time and energy are also powerful gifts. Gitelson highlights that “the value of your activities does not depend only on your giving money. You can accomplish a great deal as a… volunteer.”

There is no minimum level for giving. You can help by serving food at a shelter, reading to children, or cleaning up a local park. Volunteers play an essential role in supporting local charities and broader philanthropic initiatives.

This kind of hands-on philanthropy work connects you directly to your community. Volunteering and hands-on giving create a positive social impact by improving lives and strengthening the community as a whole. Volunteers often provide the needed support for organizations to fulfill their missions.

Types of Philanthropy

Philanthropy comes in many forms, each with its own goals and methods. After all, every human heart has the capacity to give, and for a long time, there have been many ways to provide that align with one’s goals and passions. Here are just a few:

• Corporate philanthropy is when businesses and companies support charitable causes or organizations, often through donations or employee volunteering.
• Community philanthropy happens when local people join forces to address needs in their own neighborhoods.
• Religious philanthropy is inspired by faith and often supports both local and global charitable causes; for example, Mother Teresa established the Order of the Missionaries of Charity to serve vulnerable communities.
• Social impact investing is a newer form of investing, where individuals or organizations invest in projects that aim for both a financial return and positive social or environmental outcomes.

How to Make Your Philanthropy Work

With so many needs in the world, how do you pick where to help? The key is to focus on what matters most to you.

First, look at your own life. What are you grateful for? Maybe a teacher changed your life, or a hospital helped your family. Your personal experiences can guide your giving. Gitelson suggests you ask yourself what your real purpose in life is and how you can best express this purpose by giving of yourself and your assets.

Second, do a little research. Make sure the charity you choose is honest and uses its money wisely. Practicing due diligence by asking questions about the organization’s mission, impact, and transparency to ensure you understand how it operates. Before making a decision, always be knowledgeable.

Third, act on your heart of giving. Intentions and knowledge can only bring you so far if you don’t actually act on them. So, make a move.

Effective Giving Strategies

Developing effective giving strategies is essential for anyone who wants their philanthropy to truly succeed.

Experts agree that unpredictable and insufficient financing can limit the success of even the most well-intentioned charitable causes.

So, to create greater and more lasting positive effects, it’s essential to think strategically about where and how you give.

Supporting organizations that tackle the root causes of issues—such as investing in healthcare systems or educational reform—often leads to more sustainable change than simply addressing immediate needs.

The Joy of Giving Back

One of the best parts of philanthropy work is how good it makes you feel. Science shows that helping others releases chemicals in your brain that make you happy.

This is sometimes called a “helper’s high.”

Gitelson in the book confirms this phenomenon, reporting that “those who gave money or time to religious or secular causes were happier than non-givers.”

On a moral and historical level, charity is a duty that is embedded in everyone’s psyche. Civilization would have never flourished if everyone were selfish and acutely individualistic.

From a health perspective, charitable giving can also lower blood pressure and reduce stress, providing physical health benefits in addition to emotional rewards.

Giving also helps you feel connected to your community and gives your life a greater sense of purpose. Generosity, the quality of being generous, not only enriches the giver but also strengthens the community as a whole. It reminds you that your actions, no matter how small, matter.

The depth of impact philanthropy can have on both individuals and society is significant, influencing well-being on many levels.

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Begin Your Own Philanthropy Work Journey

Philanthropy work is a powerful tool for change that is available to everyone. It is about making a conscious choice to help. You can give money, time, or talent. The most important thing is to start. Find a cause you love and take that first step. By helping to solve problems, you will likely find more happiness in your own life.

To learn more about how you can make a difference, get your copy of Dr. Susan Aurelia Gitelson’s book, Giving Is Not Just For The Very Rich: A How-To Guide For Giving And Philanthropy.