What is a Giving Goal?

Often, the idealism of youth is lost as one achieves success and acquires material possessions later in life. What was originally considered to be “enough” or even “beyond my wildest dreams” can become just another milestone on one’s quest…

Capturing your current vision of how you wish to give of yourself and your resources in the future could help you plan to give more meaningfully. Revisiting this vision in ten or twenty years could provide a reminder of the ideals of your youth that may shape or re-shape your future actions.

If you have already posted your Giving Goal and would like to update your email for future reminders, please contact [email protected]

Step 1

Have a healthy and vigorous dialogue in your class on the general idea of having a personal Giving Goal as a college student.

Step 2

Set a Giving Goal concerning your future giving plans.

Step 3

Share a brief statement of your Giving Goals on The Philanthropy Lab’s portal as a way to inspire others to do the same. You may post anonymously to the public if you wish.

Step 4

Share your permanent email address and phone number with The Philanthropy Lab, for the sole purpose of the reminder mechanism, so we can remind you of your goal in 5 year increments for 20 years into the future.

Alumni Reflections

"What a sweet reminder of this pledge! I've definitely given and volunteered in the last 6yrs. It's been a joy to continue the journey of generosity since graduating from undergrad. I'm back in grad school and I am looking forward to finishing my MSW. There will be new ways I give back to the community!"

"Thank you so much for this valuable reminder of my Giving Pledge. I'm proud to say I've dedicated several hours of volunteer time & services to Arts Education non-profits and will continue to live out this pledge"

“Thanks for reaching out––I'm actively still volunteering at two non-profits now in NYC (one free food service called "Wellfare" and a neighborhood homeless shelter)”

"Thank you for your email! The Philanthropy Lab was a life changing experience for me. I ended up joining the board of Malawi Children's Village to run the women empowerment program, which is what the Philanthropy Lab grant was for. In August, I am going to Malawi to see the project in action!"

"I was so happy to see this email pop into my inbox, it feels like a lifetime ago I was in this course. I appreciate all that I learned in this class and have taken its messages with me through these past 5 years. I do plan on maintaining the promise I made in this class"

"Thanks for this reminder. I actually still have a handwritten version of that note on the magnet board in my home office."

Search for Giving Goals

Over 4,200+ course participants have written giving goals in a demonstration of leadership!

Michaela Grayson

University of Texas - McCombs

Spring
2025

I want to focus on giving back to organizations focused on environmental impacts as well as early education in children

Michael Lueke

Texas Christian University

Spring
2025

I pledge to embody the spirit of giving throughout my future—as a physician committed to restoring health and dignity to my patients, by allocating 10% of my future income to charitable causes, and by actively serving with a nonprofit whose mission aligns with my values, whether as a board member, volunteer, or in another meaningful role.

Mia Ynostrosa

University of Texas

Spring
2025

My giving goal is to help children and families around the world. My childhood was surrounded by love and laughter, I was/am very fortunate to have everything I have asked for. I want to spread the love and joy I experience, so I will donate to charities involving children and families.

Mia Storm

University of Texas

Spring
2025

For my giving goal, I aspire to meaningfully give back to my community. I plan to do this by donating or investing 5–7% of my annual salary to reputable organizations that create real, lasting change. While this goal may not be immediately achievable without a steady income, I view it as a commitment I’m preparing to fulfill. Once I’m in a position to give, I believe it becomes my responsibility to do so. There will always be people with more than I have—but it’s just as important to remember those with less, and to use what I can to help lift others up.

Meredith Gavin

Stanford University

Spring
2025

My giving goal is to give my career towards climate work and/or education. I want to give time and resources to public services.

Mei Li Hart

Emory University

Spring
2025

My giving goal is to dedicate 2% of my income annually to causes that I am passionate about, including women’s rights, mental health advocacy, veterans’ support, and environmental sustainability. In addition to financial contributions, I aim to volunteer at least 100 hours per year and actively advocate for policies that advance these causes. In 10 years, I hope to increase my annual giving to 5-8% of my income and serve on the board of a nonprofit organization, using my time and expertise to amplify their mission and impact.