My goal is to give 10% of my gross income to 1-2 organizations of my choice beginning the first year out of undergrad. I will determine which organization(s) by following a similar procedure to this course (initial nominees, 990 evaluation, narrow down by speaking with the organization). Every year I will reevaluate whether I want to continue giving to the same organization(s) or pivot to 1-2 others based on how effectively they’ve used my donation and whether the cause still resonates with me. I will volunteer my time and talent with these organizations. In times of financial comfort, I will volunteer on top of the 10% donation. In more strenuous financial times, I will volunteer more and donate less. Ideally, I would like to enter a giving circle with a group of local peers with whom I’ve established trust and we do this collectively.

After I get a full time job, I promise to dedicate part of my income and time each month to a philanthropic organization, or collection of organizations, that work to uplift others. To do this, I will add philanthropy to my budget in a separate bank account and schedule time in my calendar for service. Instead of giving myself a hard limit, I will give myself the guideline of 5% of my time and money from which to give, because I fear a hard number will become an excuse to not increase my giving as my financial stability grows. However, regardless of number, I promise to give philanthropically each month. I want to continually strive to make a difference in this world. I vow to give generously of my time, my wealth, and my passion to support causes that alleviate the burdens of poverty, injustice, and despair. I will work to build a culture of those with servant hearts in the people around me, in my family and friends, by making serving and giving a community activity.