Thursday, May 25, 2006

Philanthropy and the Black Church (Informational Paper)

Philanthropy and the Black Church (Informational Paper): "Philanthropy and the Black Church
By LaTasha Chaffin
Graduate Student, Grand Valley State University


Definition

Philanthropy is 'goodwill to fellow men; especially active effort to promote human welfare (Merriam-Webster 2003).'

Traditional definitions of philanthropy have focused on money but newer definitions have broadened this definition to 'include the giving of time, shelter or other material resources as philanthropic activities (Duran 2001, 2).'

Historically, the Black church has been a core institution for African-American philanthropy. The Black church does not only serve as a faith-based house of worship, but it facilitates organized philanthropic efforts including meeting spiritual, psychological, financial, educational and basic humanitarian such as food, housing, and shelter needs. Black churches are also involved in organizing and providing volunteers to the community and in civil and human rights activism."

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