Tuesday, October 23, 2007
Editorial: Commendable stewardship - The Stanford Daily Online
Editorial: Commendable stewardship - The Stanford Daily Online: "To speak more broadly, we live in an increasingly affluent society. Philanthropy, and all of the potential that comes with it for non-participatory self-congratulatory giving is a fact of that society. While there are those who would maintain that any philanthropy is better than none, poorly directed money can lead to dangerous back-patting for barely bandaging a gaping wound that continues to exist in society. When relationships aren’t built, money tossed at non-profit institutions becomes an easy way to establish benevolence, justify wealth, and assuage discomfort over social inequalities. Promoting responsible philanthropy may not seem like the hottest of political and social issues. But, by demanding that the exchange of money have a personal touch to it, the individuals who orchestrate the stewardship programs at Stanford try to inject humanity into the exchange of large sums of money, and there is value in that exercise."
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Philanthropy needs to be more than just a social massage. Charitable organizations that “bang on doors for bucks” and whose fundraising appeal is getting donors’ names publicized, may find the short-term gain is a long-term loss.
Most donors will find greater appeal in knowing their gift will have long-term impact. When nonprofits understand their mission and share their vision, they can truly get to know their donors and can build relationships. With a strong relationship in place, nonprofits and donors can explore structured gifts that keep on giving.
Creating this win-win opens the door to intergenerational relationships. The nonprofit values the long term fund development while the donor values the ongoing impact of the gift. Cementing the relationship with the next generation starts more naturally by passing on the value of the current relationship.
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