In every act of giving lies a story – a connection that we want to hold onto, a moment in our lives that shaped our view of how the world should work, a vision of a brighter future. When we ask our donors why they give, their answers reveal the profound truth about philanthropy: giving enriches not just the recipient, but also the giver.
Many speak of the joy they feel in honoring loved ones through charitable gifts that reflect shared values. Others describe the deep satisfaction of helping solve community challenges they’ve witnessed firsthand. Some share stories of receiving help when they needed it most, and how giving allows them to “pay it forward” to the next generation.
The reasons we give are as diverse as our community itself.
We give because we remember – a parent who believed in us, the teacher who stepped in during hard times, the stranger whose kindness changed our path. Through giving, we honor those who shaped our lives by creating new stories of hope for others.
We give because we belong – to a community that has nurtured us, to a place we call home. Our gifts weave us into the fabric of community life and responsibility.
We give because we believe in possibility – in the potential of every child to thrive, every family to prosper, and every neighbor to age with dignity.
Every gift counts, no matter how you give. A scholarship recipient becomes a mentor to others. A supported arts program sparks creativity that transforms a neighborhood. An environmental initiative preserves natural beauty for generations to come. This is the profound power of philanthropy – not just in addressing immediate needs, but in creating lasting positive change that echoes through time. You can make a difference through a donor-advised fund that supports multiple causes, an endowment that will benefit future generations, or regular donations to local organizations that mean the world to you.
As we reflect on why we give, perhaps the simplest answer is this: we give because we’re all connected. Your triumph is my triumph. Your struggle is my struggle. Your future is my future. Through giving, we acknowledge our shared humanity and our power to make a difference. When future generations look back and ask why we gave, let them find the answer in the thriving, compassionate community we helped to build.
Thinking about giving? We can help. Contact Monika Collins (mcollins@delcofoundation.org) for more information.
