The Benefits of Organized Giving Explained by Her Royal Highness Queen Sylvia, the Nnaabagereka of Buganda at the 2017 APF Annual Conference
There are several benefits to organized giving. The first benefit goes back to the interconnectedness that the Ubuntu philosophy espouses – the notion of community, caring and connection. In a world where formalized organized giving structures are in place, structures governed by legal rules and an ethical code of conduct, tangible links are created between givers and beneficiaries. This link is what actually serves to keep us human. To have us looking out for the disadvantaged members of our society..
To have us constantly reminded that “a person is a person through other persons.” This link between the giver and the receiver also allows a dialogue to take place between the two entities. Hence your wealth is put to good use and in turn, the members of the community have actual needs met.
The second and perhaps most obvious benefit of organized giving is that it moves society from the “quick fix” scenarios that many of us are familiar with. I am sure a number of you can relate to being called upon to contribute to a particular cause and you willingly do so. The following year you realize that the mechanism that existed the previous year to support that particular cause may have disbanded – without bringing about the much needed results or impact.
Organized giving either through a Foundation, a trust or an endowment gives that solution far more longevity than the quick fix you participated in. Another advantage to organized giving is that structures like foundations, endowments and trusts, among others offer a sense of perpetuity to a philanthropic endeavor. That way a person’s impact on their community is continued to be felt long after their departure from earth.
The fourth and last benefit to organized giving is that it amplifies the impact – because there is strength in numbers. Formal structures like foundations and trusts for example, also allow everyone – regardless of their income – to participate in making a lasting impact.
The focus here, is not on the amount given – because for sure, some will give substantial amounts while others may not. The focus instead, is on consistent giving. But without formal avenues for consistent giving, the entire society loses out unknowingly.At APF, we promote philanthropy by raising awareness about the important role that strategic philanthropy can play in the society and we encourage wealthy Africans to structure their giving to achieve scalable impact. You can join our network of philanthropist by applying to be a member here
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This article is an excerpt from the first edition of the Toolkit for African Philanthropists published by the African Philanthropy Forum. To learn more about this toolkit, please visit here
