Just because you run a nonprofit or social enterprise doesn’t mean you have a culture of philanthropy. So, in this article, we’re going to share with you the definition, why it’s necessary, and how to get it. After reading this post, you will see a shift in your organization if you institute some of the ideas. In other words, at a time when more demands exist on few resources for social good groups, you’ll find that you’ll thrive. And that’s not only going to be great for your organization. It’s also going to be great for your community and the work you do.
What’s a Culture of Philanthropy?
The Aspen Leadership Group provides us with a good definition of the culture of philanthropy around donors. The information was developed by Ron Schiller, founder of the organization. For his book, Belief and Confidence, he interviewed more than 100 philanthropists. In the process, he outlined four pillars outlined below for a strong culture of philanthropy within an organization.
1. Create and Nurture Relationships
Not surprisingly, one of the pillars of a culture of philanthropy is to ensure you develop and grow relationships. While Schiller was looking at the culture of philanthropy through the donor lens, we think it’s vital for everyone. In other words, you don’t just want strong bonds with donors. But you also want to have good relationships with and among the people on your team. Everyone should feel that their contributing and supporting the larger goals and missions.
2. Every Gift in Philanthropy is Vital
As we know, sometimes fundraisers pay a lot of attention to high-level donors. But every gift matters, according to Schiller. The reality is that most gifts, including major donor contributions, start small and build. Also, every $5 gift combined with others is part of a substantial whole. As it relates to your team, even if they receive a salary and benefits, they bring their talents and natural gifts, including passion, to your cause.
3. It’s Necessary to Engage
The third element of Schiller’s definition of a culture of philanthropy is that it necessitates engagement. In other words, people have to get involved in your organization. So, that could include volunteers, board members, and active supporters. Concerning your team, it means that you want to ask for their insights and advice. Remember, the engagement of donors is vital, but so is your workers’ attention to help you deliver on your mission.
4. Philanthropy Creates a Genuine Partnership
Finally, the fourth pillar for Schiller and donors for a culture of philanthropy is a true partnership. In other words, donors and supporters want to get heard. So, the best organizations that create a philanthropic culture understand that ideas and vision get discussed and shared. Peoples’ opinions matter and they’re listened to when they speak. Of course, this also includes a nonprofit team. Leaders should depend on the insights and ideas of their valuable team players.
Why Does a Culture of Philanthropy Matter?
A philanthropic culture matters of nonprofits or social good organizations because it speaks to who they are as groups. In other words, you can’t claim to care about a good cause and then treat your team poorly. Philanthropy, by definition, is about improving the lives of humans. However, while Schiller’s pillars of philanthropy came through the lens of his conversations with donors, there are other vital aspects to a culture of philanthropy.
So, why does a culture of philanthropy matter? Again, you can’t claim to want to do good for others by not walking the walk always with donors, supporters, team members, your community, and those served. Also, when you lean into philanthropy, you honor everyone who helps you achieve the success of your mission. And for donors, when they see a genuine culture of philanthropy, they feel that what they’re supporting truly matters.
Tips to Achieve a Common Good Within Your Organization
Now that you know why it’s vital for your social good group to ensure a robust culture of philanthropy, how do you do it? Well, the following are some of our tips for ensuring that it permeates throughout everything you do.
- Create a culture of philanthropy from the top. In other words, ensure that all leaders, including the board, learn about it and support it throughout the organization. If need be, hire outside counsel to help you develop it in your organization.
- Ensure that your relationships are solid. In every relationship that you have within your organization, ensure that philanthropy is part of the dynamic. For example, you could take the ideas of Schiller and Community Funded and work to integrate them into every aspect of your social good organization.
- Listen always in your philanthropic culture. Remember that philanthropy seeks to elevate and make the lives of humans better. So, one of the fundamental ways of doing it is to listen. Listen to what the people you serve need. Also, listen to your workers and supporters. When you find out what drives people and what they need, it’s essential for philanthropy.
- Build consensus. A culture of philanthropy means you have to listen. As a result, you also have the opportunity to build consensus. Ultimately, this involves your community meaningfully. So, empower your team, board, and community to create a space for consensus-building.
- Recruit champions to help you spread the message. The fact of the matter is that people listen to other people. So, recruit advocates and leaders to spread the culture of philanthropy message. In short, look at your executive team, champion supporters, and board members to help you communicate philanthropic ideals.
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