Getting Started in Local Philanthropy
In our previous philanthropy blog we discussed what philanthropy is, but how do you become a philanthropist? Philanthropy is generosity, and often takes the shape of donations of money, time, and efforts that benefit society or solve a problem. Anybody can be a philanthropist!
When we think of philanthropy, we often think of the top donors or supporters for societal change. You may think of famous philanthropists like Warren Buffett or Bill Gates. However, we know that philanthropy is not measured by the size or amount, but rather by the intention or effort put forth by the person or organization.
Philanthropy at KCF
At KCF, our work is rooted in philanthropy. By definition, philanthropy is based on a love for humankind. Here at KCF, our mission is to connect the needs of the community with resources to collaboratively improve quality of life.
One way we work to accomplish our philanthropic mission, is by accepting financial donations from generous individuals or organizations to create permanent endowments which in turn provide grants and scholarships to support our local community and its needs for the long term future.
In addition to grants, we also provide many additional community services such as convening and facilitating conversations about larger community issues, sponsoring community events, providing a free meeting space for small and large groups, supporting youth philanthropy and leadership programming, and assisting our local partners to get the word out to the greater community about their work and needs.
Getting Started in Local Philanthropy
There are many avenues and ways for you to get involved with philanthropy. Here are some things you can do to get started:
Gain experience with local non-profit organizations
Volunteering or participating in your community can help you understand local issues! This experience will also teach you valuable skills that you can apply anywhere in your life.
Explore issues or social problems that are important to you
Finding what you are passionate about can help you accomplish your philanthropic goals. You may discover new issues, causes, or things that you can do to engage with your community around your interests.
Network and build connections in the community
As you gain experience and explore, you will begin to build connections with community members who share your interests and passions. These connections will better help you, and the community, address and meet goals!
Want to learn more about giving? Check out our website and stay tuned for our next informational blog about giving!
Consider becoming a philanthropist today!
Community Impact Fund
Our Community Impact Fund is the most flexible vehicle for providing annual funding for a variety of community projects or programs dedicated to collaborative approaches designed to maintain or improve the quality of life in the greater Keweenaw area. This fund is a great place for you to get started on your philanthropic journey!
Impact Story - Ahmeek Village Volunteer Fire and Rescue Department
Ahmeek Village Volunteer Fire and Rescue Department ballroom gathering space with a combination of old and new tables and chairs set up.
The Ahmeek Village Volunteer Fire and Rescue Department (AVVFRD) received funding through the Community Impact field of interest fund in the fall of 2022 to enhance their gathering space. This space is used to host training on a regular basis for fire fighting staff, and also serves as a gathering space for the Ahmeek Village Council, polling location for voting, fundraising center, and a general community gathering space - which is a necessity for the community.
The space previously housed several sets of tables and chairs from the 1960s, each clearly showing signs of severe aging and were becoming unsafe and unusable. Updates to the facility were needed in order to maintain regular programming and work conducted by the AVVFRD. The new table and chair furnishings will benefit community members directly by personally utilizing the facility or by receiving emergency services when needed by volunteers trained at the AVVFRD facility.
Without the philanthropic support of this fund, this project would not have been possible!
Learn More
Interested in learning more about the types of funds, endowments, and how to give to further your philanthropic journey? Keep an eye out for the next part of this series where we will outline our Guide to Giving!