There exists an uncomfortable truth that our economic system is unjust, which prompts many of us at some point in our lives to feel guilty about our relative wealth while others are deprived of the resources they need. Philanthropy seems like one way to make things better.
Indeed, that’s why we champion a research-based, data-driven approach to our countywide grantmaking to most effectively respond to immediate needs – while also inspiring action and galvanizing resources to address chronic challenges over time.
On the other hand, Philanthropy magazine reports that charity out of guilt is a myth. In exploring the philanthropic motivations of the likes of Andrew Carnegie and John D. Rockefeller from an historical point of view, “They saw themselves as self-made men, conquering a continent and propelling the United States into the forefront of nations…to imagine that such men did not sleep the sleep of the just would be romantic sentimentalism.” Or, as Winston Churchill put it, “The founder of the Standard Oil Company would not have felt the need of paying hush money to heaven.”
It follows that philanthropists have many motivations, which may or may not include a sense of guilt, personal gain (e.g., to claim an income tax deduction) or pure altruism – depending on who you talk to, and which period in history you’re looking at. Here at The Community Foundation, we believe that Boulder County residents are community-minded people who give to charity because it fulfills a fundamentally human desire to help others and makes a positive difference in their lives.
At the end of the day, feeling good about doing good benefits everyone – regardless of your personal motivations. Learn more about how we can ignite change and accomplish more together in Boulder County.
