Giving That Grows With You
When people ask me what philanthropy means, I don’t point to the awards on the wall or the programs I’ve helped launch. I think about the first time I gave my time to someone who needed it—quietly, without recognition, just because it was the right thing to do. Over the years, that small act of giving grew into a life of service, and I’ve come to see that philanthropy is less about wealth and more about wisdom—knowing where to show up, how to listen, and when to act.
Decades of community involvement have taught me that giving evolves. In our youth, we give energy and ideas. As we mature, we give resources, access, and guidance. Through it all, we learn that true leadership in philanthropy isn’t about being seen; it’s about seeing others—and choosing to act with care and purpose.
Giving Is Personal—and That’s the Point
Philanthropy should never be a copy-and-paste effort. It’s deeply personal. For me, giving has always been rooted in values passed down by my family: humility, perseverance, and a belief in the power of education. As I got older and became more involved in causes like youth development, financial literacy, and global education through organizations like CYFA and UNICEF, I realized that meaningful giving doesn’t just reflect who we are—it shapes who we become.
I’ve worked with families who give to honor a loved one. I’ve met entrepreneurs who support programs that helped them in their early days. I’ve seen young professionals give small amounts with big hearts. What we give may differ, but the heart behind it is what counts.
The Power of Listening
One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned through philanthropy is the power of listening. We don’t serve communities by assuming what they need—we serve by asking, listening, and walking beside them. Some of the most impactful projects I’ve been a part of were born not from boardroom strategies, but from conversations in classrooms, community centers, and refugee camps.
Listening also means being open to change. Over the years, I’ve had to shift focus, adapt strategies, and even admit when something wasn’t working. That kind of flexibility doesn’t always come easily, but it’s essential. Because philanthropy isn’t about ego—it’s about effectiveness. And sometimes, the wisest action is to step back, regroup, and try again.
Awards Are Nice, but Impact Is Better
I’ve been honored to receive recognition over the years for my work in philanthropy. Each award is appreciated and humbling. But I’ll be honest—what stays with me isn’t the ceremony, it’s the stories.
It’s the young woman who learned how to manage her money through CYFA and went on to start a small business. It was the children I met at various events who lit up when they talked about their dreams of becoming doctors and teachers. It’s the community leaders who taught me more than I could ever give back.
Awards fade. But impact—that stays with you. That’s what matters most.
Leadership Is Service, Not Spotlight
True leadership in philanthropy isn’t about being in charge. It’s about being in service. That means doing the work, showing up consistently, and sometimes staying in the background so others can shine.
I’ve been fortunate to work with incredible teams and communities around the world. What I’ve learned is that good leaders make space for others to grow. They mentor quietly, encourage often, and share credit freely. Leadership, at its best, is about legacy—not legacy in terms of personal fame, but in terms of what we leave behind for others.
Giving Is a Practice, Not a Destination
People sometimes think of giving as a goal—something you “achieve” once you’ve reached a certain point in life or career. But the truth is, giving is a practice. It’s something we do consistently, imperfectly, and with intention. Just like any other practice, it requires reflection, learning, and growth.
Sometimes that means rethinking old habits. Other times, it means trusting a new generation to lead in ways we never imagined. I’ve learned that the best way to keep our giving relevant and meaningful is to stay curious, stay connected, and stay open.
A New Chapter, Same Mission
Even as I enter what some might call the “later chapters” of my life, my mission hasn’t changed. If anything, it’s become more focused. I’m less interested in spreading thin and more committed to deep, lasting partnerships with organizations and individuals who are truly moving the needle.
I also see it as my role now to pass on what I’ve learned. I mentor younger philanthropists, support leadership development programs, and invest in next-gen giving platforms. Because if we want to create lasting change, we have to build bridges—not just across communities, but across generations.
Wisdom in Action
Looking back, I realize that the most important lessons I’ve learned from a lifetime of giving aren’t about strategy or scale. They’re about presence, humility, and care. They’re about asking, “What does this community really need?” instead of, “What do I want to give?”
Philanthropy, when done well, is wisdom in action. It’s love with structure. It’s empathy with a plan. And it’s a lifelong journey—one I’m grateful to walk every day.
If you’re just beginning that journey, my advice is simple: start small, stay curious, and give with your whole heart. The impact may surprise you—in others, and in yourself.