Charity vs. Philanthropy

This guest post by Sharon Davis of Giving Well is taking a deeper look at Charity and Philanthropy. In this dynamic blog series, we will be examining the key difference between these two topics and offering tips and tools to level up your own efforts in these areas.   

The terms Charity and Philanthropy are often used interchangeably but there is a significant difference and once understood we can all become philanthropists.

Charity is giving … philanthropy is doing.      

Understanding Charity Vs Philanthropy

Charity is part of our culture; something most of us experience early in life through family, community, school, the workplace, and other avenues. As we grow we start to make conscious decisions about how, why, and who we support but have you considered the impact of your giving?  Do you want to be charitable or philanthropic?

Charity is impulsive, emotional, and often temporary in terms of solving the issue.   We give a coat or a meal to a homeless person but that is not solving the problem it is a fix for the moment. Philanthropy is a much broader concept that looks to get to the root of the problem and find solutions.  Philanthropy is based on carefully thought-out plans, built on previous successes, and focused on the community.  It benefits many people with results, outcomes, and impact.

Is Philanthropy more important than Charity?

This does not mean that we don’t need charity – meeting immediate human needs is necessary until we can find solutions. So, continue to support your local initiatives but start looking for long-term solutions because charity is not sustainable. Charity is not changing.  

Those who endeavor to find solutions understand that philanthropy is not limited to the wealthy.  Read, research, talk to people and think critically about the needs of your community and beyond.  How can you use your skills and resources to advocate to solve a larger social problem?  As Margaret Mead said, “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world.  Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.”  

The Importance of Stories in Charity and Philanthropy

How can stories play a role in both charity and philanthropy? Stories shared by charities and non-profits operating on a micro level in the community contain important information that can lead to change. They are the eyes and ears on the ground identifying the need but don’t always have the resources to effect change.

For those looking deeper and trying to create systemic change i.e. policymakers, foundations, and other philanthropic entities this information is key to solving larger social issues.  In reverse when philanthropic entities are trying to effect positive social change, they can revert to charities as the mechanism to accomplish that.  Charity then becomes a critical partner to philanthropy in the quest to improve communities around the world.

So are you ready to become a philanthropist and be the change?  

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