Having a clear vision of how we want to give of ourselves and our resources in the future is a valuable exercise. It allows us to plan our giving in a more meaningful way and ensures that our actions align with our values. With respect to all that we have learned in class . Here is a step-by-step plan to help me and my peers develop our vision: 1. Reflect on your values: Take some time to think about what truly matters to you. Consider the causes and issues that you are passionate about and the impact you want to make in the world. 2. Set specific goals: Once you have identified your values, set specific and measurable goals for your giving. Think about the resources you have available, such as time, money, skills, or influence, and how you can use them to create positive change. 3. Research and learn: Dive deeper into the causes you are interested in. Educate yourself about the current challenges, organizations, and initiatives working in those areas. This will help you make informed decisions about where to focus your efforts. 4. Identify your unique strengths: Reflect on your strengths, skills, and experiences. Consider how you can leverage these attributes to make a meaningful impact. For example, if you are skilled in finance, you may consider volunteering to help manage the finances of a nonprofit organization. 5. Create an action plan: Develop a detailed plan of action that outlines the specific steps you will take to achieve your giving goals. Break down your goals into smaller, achievable tasks and set deadlines for each of them. 6. Seek support and collaboration: Connect with like-minded individuals, organizations, or communities that share your vision and values. Collaboration can amplify your impact and provide valuable support and resources. 7. Revisit and revise: Regularly revisit your vision and goals to ensure they remain aligned with your values and aspirations. As time passes, priorities and circumstances may change, so be open to adapting your plan accordingly. Remember, giving meaningfully is a lifelong journey. By capturing your vision and continuously reevaluating it, you can ensure that your giving remains purposeful and impactful over time.
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
Search for Giving Goals
Over 4,200+ course participants have written giving goals in a demonstration of leadership!
Lizbeth Hernandez
- Spring
- 2024
Up to 5% if making $100,000 or less. More than 5% if making more than $100,000.
Lindsay Ladman
- Spring
- 2024
My goal is to get more involved in whatever city I am living in through volunteering. I am passionate about food security and nutrition and I hope in the next ten years I can make an impact in that space by providing both financially and also donating my time and efforts. I am currently working to start a food brand with a social impact/mission driven foundation, like that of Patagonia Provisions. This is a product that I am working on and I hope that I can produce it sustainability and also figure out a way to include the accessibility piece some how.
Lina Yamahara
- Spring
- 2024
I hope that as I grow into my professional career, I remain committed to my values regarding equity and my place in the world as a responsible citizen. I hope to dedicate all three T’s: time, treasures and talent.
Lily Short
- Spring
- 2024
I’ve set ambitious philanthropic goals for myself, both in the short and long term. In the short term, I aim to continue my active involvement with existing charities and nonprofits, leveraging my time and skills to support causes like animal rights, food insecurity, and education. Whether it’s volunteering at animal shelters or organizing food drives for those in need, I believe in the power of individual action to create positive change in the community. In addition to direct service, I also aspire to engage in advocacy and policy reform to address systemic issues and promote social justice. By amplifying the voices of marginalized communities and advocating for equitable policies, I hope to contribute to the creation of a more just and inclusive society. In the long term, I envision taking on a more strategic role in philanthropy, potentially establishing my own nonprofit or startup focused on sustainability and social impact. Building on my background in sustainability consulting, I aim to develop innovative solutions to address environmental challenges while simultaneously advancing social equity and economic opportunity.