Building CommunityThe Role and Opportunity of Philanthropy

Dr. Nancy DishnerVice President

Working Definition of

Philanthropy

Ancient Greeks: Love of humanity in the sense of caring for, nourishing, developing and enhancing the lives of others.

For Us: Private initiatives for public goodDistinction:

Charity is about relieving problems Philanthropy is about solving problems.

Common Thoughts on Philanthropy

“To whom much is given much is expected.”

“The man who dies rich, dies disgraced.”So, the question is …..

How much is our life worth?

How much are we willing to invest in our community?

Investment Capital:Human (job training, education, passion)Physical (strength, energy, skill)Social (networks of trust and working

relationships)Civic (places that bring people together)Financial (personal and connection)WE are people of influence!

How Do People of Influence Build Communities?

Through responsibility, personal character and the belief that we can meaningfully and sustainably influence positive change.

By: Scott Niswonger

“Learn, Earn, & Return”

Finding Focus and Clarity

A championSpecific focusDefined missionSustainable projectsEstablished partnershipsDefined geography

The Hardest Steps…… are The First Steps!

Focusing in on a problem that needs to be solved. Being energized by possibility not defeated by

inadequacy. Seek solutions using the gifts, talents and resources

that can be identified rather than focusing on what would have to created.

Being realistic about how much can be changed. Determining how much we can contribute and who

else needs to get onboard. Develop the plan and get moving! Build it to last!

Be Mindful of the Challenges

TurfFault lines - culture, race, gender,

socioeconomic difference, age, educational level, etc.

Personalities Attitudes – “Been there, done that,

won’t work.”….To name a few….

Face the Challenges

There must be an understandable vision -- large enough to excite --but reasonable enough to succeed.

The vision must be grounded in the authentic character of the community.

A partnership must be formed between the public and private sector.

All sides must be willing to adapt, innovate and change.

Those relationships take time to built and refine. Must involve the “rank” and the “rank and file”

(business, politics, education, faith-based and civic)

A person of influence has Faith in People

Your goal is not to get people to think more highly of you. It’s to get them to think more highly of themselves! It is impossible to antagonize and influence at the same time.

The Niswonger Definition of Philanthropy

Foundation’s Motto: “Learn, Earn and Return”

Scott’s Philosophy: “Return our money to the community that helped and prepared us to make it.”

The TRICK is giving the last dollar on the last day.Layering Sustainability

The Five Remembrances

I am going to age.I am going to suffer illness.I will die.I will be separated from all that is dear

and beloved to me.I am the owner of my actions. Whatever

actions I do, good or bad, of these I shall become their heir.

Resources

The Social Entrepreneur’s Handbook, by Rupert Scofield

Social Entrepreneurship: What Everyone Needs to Know, by David Bornstein and Susan Davis

Smart Communities: How Citizens and Local Leaders Can Use Strategic Thinking to Build a Brighter Future, by Suzanne W. Morse