Giving for Impact

Political debate in our country has reached a fever pitch as the new administration implements its approach to conducting the business of government. One focus has been on where our tax dollars come from and how our government is spending those dollars, set against the backdrop of the serious financial situation our country faces.

In contrast to the controversial events in DC, I wanted to use this weekly as an opportunity to highlight positive examples of how individuals can make an impact in the lives of others through giving, whether through a non-profit or directly. I know when I make a charitable donation, I want to be sure that my gift will be used for things that matter to me and that I can see the impact of my giving.

My first example relates to a young artist who was having chemo treatment. She wanted to help her parents with the costs of her treatment, so she gathered her artwork and set up a street kiosk. All her pieces were under $200. One day, a woman stopped and began to discuss what she was doing. She asked the young artist if she could post the story on her local art blog. As news got out, the artist started to sell a few more paintings. One day, an elderly man wearing a hat approached the kiosk and began to browse through her artwork. He found a piece which he wanted to purchase. The price was $200. The man paid by check. The artist looked at the amount on the check – it was $50,000. She said that she could not accept, but the man insisted. He was a true art collector and an impact giver by the name of Clint Eastwood.

My second example is the story of a person who started out as a social worker and went on to become very successful in the business world. Throughout their life, they have helped put four homeless individuals through college. Helping people get off the streets was not enough. Their mission was to help homeless people develop careers and end the generational poverty that had gripped them and their families.

Finally, a retired friend shared his desire to help young engineering students attending his alma mater. He went to the college and asked how much money the school would need to fund a full one-year scholarship in their school of engineering. My friend posted the funds with only one condition: he would not participate in the selection process. He only wanted to have lunch with the winner of the scholarship. He said this was the joy in his life that he looked forward to the most.

While our politicians rage at one another, I find it important to remember what we can do as individuals without any involvement from government. Thoughtful giving by one person to help another can have a major impact.

Carl Gambrell