Hello You Good Philanthropist!

Yes, you!

Everyone is a philanthropist. Guaranteed. Stay with me…

Confused by the difference between philanthropy and nonprofits?

Many of us use the terms interchangeably and struggle to explain the difference.

But knowing the difference is important to seeing the wider landscape of doing good.

A Good Quote

"We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give." – Winston Churchill

A Good Note…

Philanthropy & Nonprofits What’s the Difference?

Philanthropy and nonprofits are often mentioned together, but they’re not the same.

Philanthropy is the act of giving.

It’s about using resources like time, money, or expertise to improve the world. Whether it’s a billionaire funding education initiatives, a corporate foundation investing in sustainability, or individuals donating time or resources to a local food bank, philanthropy is the "why" behind efforts to make a difference. It reflects compassion, generosity, and the desire to solve problems or create opportunities.

YOU are a philanthropist every time you give of your time, talent, and treasure!

Nonprofits are the "how."

Nonprofits are designed to take philanthropic support and put it to work. Nonprofits use grants, donations, and volunteer efforts to run programs, provide services, and advocate for change. They operate with defined missions, focused on areas like health, education, or social justice.

Beyond Simple Bottom Line: Philanthropy fuels nonprofits. 

Philanthropy is the engine of generosity, and nonprofits are the vehicles that channel that energy into action.

Together, they are a powerful force for good, each playing a distinct but interconnected role in building a better world.

A Good Example

A grant making foundation provides a grant to a nonprofit to fund a program or project.

The nonprofit uses those grant funds to fund the program or project they undertake.

Easy peasy, lemon squeezy.

A Good Recommendation

This past week amidst consequential discussions about the perils of H.R. 9495, which risks upheaval in philanthropy and for nonprofits, I kept asking myself “what would John Lewis  tell us to do?” Three things came to mind:

1. Make “good trouble” - fight for what’s right.
2. Walk with the wind - go to the need that matters most.
3. Re-read his book by the same title.

There’s so much to say about this poignant and powerful memoir and the lessons it holds for social impact leaders of every kind.

I’ll leave it at it being one of the most profound books I’ve ever read.

Strong recommend.

Have a great book recommendation? Share Yours

A Good Question

Do you work in philanthropy or serve/support a nonprofit? Tell us about it!

Answer

Share the Good!

We’d love to serve and support more do gooders like YOU!

Share this with a friend who wants to do (more) good (better)!

And check out prior editions of the DMGB Newsletter here