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What exactly is philanthropy? Philanthropy comes from the Greek word ‘philo” meaning friend. Translated directly it means love of mankind. Some people believe it is only about giving money. This could not be further from the truth. Philanthropy is about caring about your community and doing something to support that community. It can be broken down more simply to three words, all beginning with the letter “t,” time, talent and treasure.

Time

Giving of your time is a special one of a kind gift. Only you can do it. You can spend an afternoon serving food to children. You can play cards with older people in a retirement home. Or you can create a care package for servicemen overseas. Whatever it is, your time is meaningful and when you spend it helping others, it is always time well spent!

Talent

Without nonprofits, our society would be broken. Government and businesses can’t possibly address all of our issues, That’s where philanthropy can fill in the gaps. One act of kindness can change someone’s life. Kindness does not need to come in the form of money. It can be done through the use of your talents. Everyone has different talents that are unique only to them.

Treasure

Treasure may sound like something expensive, but a treasure can be something as small as providing someone who loves to read with a gently used book. The old saying that your trash is another man’s treasure could not be more true when it comes to philanthropy.
Anyone can be a philanthropist. Everywhere you look, there are opportunities to help. In today’s digital world, it is easier than ever to connect with people who are in need. You can volunteer with organizations that appeal to you. Philanthropy can be very personalized. When you share your time, talent or treasure, it’s like planting a seed. Before you know it, you have a whole orchard.