Philanthropy Day

What the day is

National Philanthropy Day is observed on November 15. It recognizes the people and organizations that give their time, money and skills to help others, and it covers everyone from major donors to the neighbor who volunteers every week. Local groups and nonprofits often hold luncheons and award events to thank their supporters.

The word philanthropy is from the Greek philanthropia, meaning love of humanity, and in practice it describes giving aimed at improving lives, communities or the world.

Origin and background

The day began in the United States in the mid-1980s, when the fundraising profession and nonprofit groups pressed for a recognition of the sector's contribution. It was first marked with a presidential proclamation, and professional fundraising associations have since coordinated events each year, with chapters in many cities and some other countries holding their own celebrations.

Philanthropy is broader than writing checks. Time and skills count as well, and there is a long record of people giving their labor, expertise and attention to causes they care about. Most charitable giving in the United States comes from individuals rather than from large foundations or corporations, and a large share of it comes in modest amounts, which is a useful point to remember if you think your donation is too small to matter.

Anyone planning to give more than a gift can check how a charity spends its money, using independent evaluators that publish ratings and financial summaries.

How to take part

• Give to a cause you care about, even a small amount, and choose a charity after checking an independent rating.
• Volunteer a few hours at a food bank, shelter, school or animal rescue.
• Thank a donor or volunteer personally. Recognition is one of the cheapest and most welcome gifts.
• Offer a skill you have, such as accounting, design or tutoring, to a small nonprofit that cannot afford it.
• Teach a child about giving by letting them pick where a small donation goes.