The word “philanthropy” comes from Greek roots, meaning, quite simply, a love of humanity. It’s a big word—but at its heart, it reflects something very personal: the desire to help others, strengthen community, and make a difference in ways that matter to you.

For some people, philanthropy means supporting a favorite nonprofit year after year. For others, it means volunteering time, responding to urgent needs, or thinking carefully about how to create lasting change. However it shows up, philanthropy is not one-size-fits-all. It’s as unique as the people behind it.

The Foundation for Delaware County believes that everyone has a philanthropic instinct, but it looks different from person to person.

“Our role is to help you discover, shape, and act on that instinct in a way that reflects your values, your experiences, and your goals,” states a Foundation newsletter article.

Whether you already have a clear vision or are just beginning to explore what matters most, the Foundation can help you connect the dots.

Set Up a Meeting

It starts by having a conversation with a member of the Foundation team.

The staffer will review your favorite charities with you.

They will look at a list of the charities you already support and review each organization to uncover the reasons you love and support each one.

“This is a crucial starting point because the community foundation is here to help you make the most of what you are already doing, and then build on that to discover how you can get even more involved,” the article stated.

The discussion will include hearing about your experiences that have shaped your life.

They’ll explore questions that unlock where your charitable passions may lie and why.

• What challenges have you or your loved ones faced?
• What opportunities made a difference for you?

Often, the causes we care about most are connected to our own journeys. Reflecting on these moments can help clarify where you feel most motivated to give.

The conversation will also look at what’s going on in the community, and which issues capture your attention or spark a strong emotional response.

“It might be something you read in the news, a local initiative you hear about, or a cause a friend supports. These moments are often clues pointing toward what matters most to you.”

 The Foundation can help provide context for these issues and share information about which organizations are directly addressing the local challenges that top your list. 

The Foundation can also connect with your advisors about structure.

As your charitable purposes come into focus, a member of the Foundation can meet with you and your estate planning and tax advisors.

They can provide articles you can share with your advisors about charitable giving structures that might help you achieve your goals.

Whether your charitable goals are best served via a donor-advised fund, unrestricted fund, legacy gift, IRA beneficiary designation, or anything in between, the Foundation can help implement your charitable intentions in ways that your advisors recommend are best aligned with the rest of your financial plan.

Taking the Journey

Philanthropy is a journey, not a destination. It’s OK to start small, to ask questions, and to adjust your approach along the way.

Whether you’re ready to establish a fund, looking to deepen your involvement, or simply beginning to think about how you want to give back, the Foundation is here to help.

Turn your love of humanity into a meaningful, lasting impact—right here in the community we share.

To learn more, contact [email protected].

Explore all the different aspects of The Foundation for Delaware County.