People are first drawn to philanthropy for a range of reasons, but we all have one thing in common: the desire to use our resources for good.
As philanthropists, we have the opportunity to take risks and support bold, innovative solutions to social problems. We can use our resources to help bring to life grassroots projects and bridge the gap between potential and opportunity. Building philanthropy into your life is one of the most rewarding things you can do, and it all begins by learning the basics. From learning to ask the right questions to developing your philanthropic strategy, we have a number of resources to help you get into giving.
“I always thought that I had to be at a certain point in my life to give, but that isn’t true. There is no such thing as the ‘right time’ – jump in!” – Satish Selvanathan
“Let your passion and drive pull you forward. Combine this with other people of the same mind and you can absolutely move the needle.” – Max Morgan
“Philanthropy is the most rewarding way you can spend your life.” – Matthew Bowcock CBE
“Do what you’re passionate about and what you know about. Don’t be afraid to make change happen in your own way.” – Philippa Charles
Our partners CAF have put together a quick-fire quiz to help you get a sense of what type of philanthropy works for you. The short quiz is a good starting place for understanding your philanthropic leanings.
Max Morgan grew up with an adoration for Menorca. When he settled into a career in finance, he finally developed the resources to give back to the island in a way he had never been able to. We speak to him about his experience.
You have found a charity which excites you and you want to get involved. But giving money away without due consideration can mean you don’t have the impact you desire. We explore what questions you should be asking.
Will giving reduce my quality of life? Am I giving the right amount of money? What will my friends and family think about the cause I’m giving to? In this blog, we set out to provide some clarity.
“Giving money is great, but it is not the only way to help.” In this interview, we speak to London Metal Exchange chair Gay Huey Evans to learn about how effective philanthropy sometimes involves drawing on your skills as well as your financial resources to help a charity thrive.
You’re committed to supporting your local community, but also want to stimulate change internationally. Can you do both? Samuel Lawson Johnston talks to us about this dilemma and how he found a solution by splitting his focus.
Sophie and Nick Marple established Gower Street in 2007 to give more structure to their charitable funding. Beginning with a focus on girls’ education, the trust has now also moved into climate funding. We speak to Sophie to learn about the motivations and ambitions for her giving.
Max Morgan developed a love of Menorca after spending a lot of his childhood on the island. Once established in a career, Max developed the resources to be able to give back to the island in a more substantial way. We find out about Max’s experience becoming a founding member of Menorca Preservation Fund, his first substantial philanthropic endeavour.
Satish Selvanathan has always been fascinated by Sri Lanka and passionate about conserving its beautiful natural environment. Two years ago, he decided to co-found Lanka Environment Fund as a way of supporting green projects in the country. Satish tells us how he is applying his two decades of experience in the private sector to his work with the new fund.
The Garfield Weston Foundation has been involved in philanthropy for over 50 years. During this time, the foundation has given millions of pounds to support a range of causes including the Arts and culture, youth and welfare, the environment and education. We spoke with foundation director Philippa Charles to learn more about what drives the family’s giving and how Covid has seen their philanthropy ramp-up.
The Beacon Collaborative