What is Philanthropy to me?

Philanthropy is the way in which humans extend a helping hand by the means of intangible or tangible giving through informal or formal giving. Or, in other words, "voluntary action for the public good" as defined by Payton and Moody. 

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 Throughout my journey, I have grown increasingly interested in being more civically engaged as a Hoosier. My heart has always been with  Indianapolis and there is so much potential for this amazing city, yet so much underlying pain. My aspirations to give back to Indianapolis have led me to the IU Lilly Family School of Philanthropy, in which I have learned about about a world beyond the public and private sphere.

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Growing up, I had little knowledge of philanthropy's impact on me, even though much of it has permeated my life to provide me with an abundance of opportunities, such as
being supported by faith-based nonprofits to benefitting from a fully funded education. I have adopted a deeper understanding of what philanthropy truly is and of its importance, especially in my own life and I have the duty of paying back the kindness and love that has been given to me.

 

Philanthropy has allowed me to understand the role that local
organizations and helpful friends and family have played in my life, formally and informally. In fact, my experience with food insecurity and child neglect  enabled me to question the purpose of my life for so long, but now my sights are shifted on others who have faced similar realities. Philanthropy has challenged me to think beyond myself and has allowed me be intentional about working in the sector dedicated to making impactful change. I am on a mission to be engaged in philanthropic work as an advocate for Hoosiers. I am excited to live out my higher calling by being engaged in addressing social issues that perpetuate food insecurity, chronic illness, child neglect, and infant mortality in Indianapolis.