Читать книгу Achieving Excellence in Fundraising - Группа авторов - Страница 135

Democracy is being scrutinized through questions about institutions, processes, and division among people. Philanthropy's unique role in prompting and developing civic engagement, advocating for change, and amplifying unheard voices is part of this discussion. Philanthropy and nonprofits increasingly are being asked to provide basic services in healthcare, education, environmental action, and more (Bernholz 2020c). What is the role of philanthropy and where are the limits? Bernholz asks whether it is time to “re‐imagine philanthropy.”

There are changing demographics of who is giving with more reliance on the super wealthy. Recent examples such as Purdue Pharma and Jeffery Epstein point to a continuing concern with tainted money and tainted donors within the practices of philanthropy (Johnson Center 2020). Critiques of “big philanthropy” from mega donors and the ultra‐rich have raised concerns of decreased participation by donors with less wealth. Yet, research shows that even in the unique environment of both a global pandemic and an economic downturn, most households initially maintained both direct and indirect giving (Mesch et al. 2020). Regular people gave in various ways, including locally focused efforts and initiatives by younger generations and communities of color gathering people together to help one another, practicing unconventional generosity such as buying locally and spreading the message about safety measures on social media.

Fundraisers must remain faithful to the organization's mission, be creative, and engage board members. Connecting the nonprofit's work with the broader social issues and systems will help fundraisers identify a larger pool of donors in the future. Most of all, fundraisers must remain positive. Philanthropy is about hope for the future and fundraising is an optimistic profession that serves society well, especially in times of distress.