The people in our community continue to amaze me. Despite an economic crisis they are volunteering their time, donating to their favorite charities – and celebrating and honoring the causes they believe in.
Even in challenging economic times we Americans are resilient – and our belief in philanthropy is, too. Giving has grown nearly continuously every year for the past four decades through every economic climate.
The Association of Fundraising Professionals – Washington Chapter – celebrates “20 Years of Giving” at its National Philanthropy Day luncheon on Nov. 20 in Seattle. Those 20 years have weathered numerous economic storms. And each time, philanthropy and philanthropic organizations have emerged stronger than ever – thanks to the support of local volunteers and donors.
According to philanthropy consultant Robert F. Sharpe Jr., even during the challenging economic crisis that struck in 1981, when the country had entered its second recessionary period in as many years with the prime interest rate of 20 percent, inflation at 10 percent, mortgage rates at 15 percent, and the unemployment rate at nine percent, giving in America grew 13 percent over 1980.
Since that time, fundraising has weathered two more recessions – in 1990 and 2001. Yet, according to the 2008 edition of Giving USA, giving in America dipped only 1 percent on average (when adjusted for inflation) during recessionary periods going back at least as far as 1955.
People give of their time and money to help others, even if they can’t give as much as they’ve been able to give in the past. They realize that no matter how bad off they are, there is always someone worse off than them.
This year, seven outstanding philanthropists will be honored for their dedicated commitment to giving at National Philanthropy Day.
These Outstanding Philanthropists include:
PACCAR Inc – Outstanding Corporation. PACCAR has a virtually unsurpassed history of giving during its 102-years of business excellence. The Bellevue-based corporation has donated millions of dollars to philanthropic causes locally, nationally and internationally.
Kirlin Charitable Foundation – Outstanding Foundation. Led by Daniel and Sally Kranzler of Bellevue, the Kirlin Charitable Foundation’s mission is to serve as a catalyst and innovative partner in positive social change, helping children and their families become lifelong learners and thoughtfully active, compassionate members of the global community.
The foundation lived that mission this year when it served as a major catalyst and launched Seeds of Compassion, an event that put a spotlight on the importance of early learning and attracted global dignitaries to the region, including The Dalai Lama.
Even in these tough economic times, National Philanthropy Day and all that it represents is a bright light, celebrating the kindness of our world. I urge you to consider how you too can ensure that the tradition of giving continues well into the future. Together, we can and will continue to improve our world.
Mel Baer is Campaign Director at Youth Eastside Services (YES) in Bellevue and is on the board of The Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) – Washington.
