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!

Anonymous

Washington University In St. Louis

Spring
2026

My giving goal is to give regularly, but especially in times of crisis. I want to donate money to a variety of causes and have the amount I donate grow in proportion to my career success. I want to save what I need for the future, but generally live modestly so I am able to give as much as I possibly can.

Anonymous

Washington University In St. Louis

Spring
2026

$100

Anonymous

Washington University In St. Louis

Spring
2026

$40

Anonymous

Washington University In St. Louis

Spring
2026

My goal is to give a meaningful amount of my yearly salary (at least $1000 a year once I have a full-time job) to non-profits both in my area and around the world that I have researched in-depth and know truly make a difference. I will give without restriction, trusting the organization knows where the money will be most useful.

Syncere Sanchez

Washington University In St. Louis

Spring
2026

My giving goal is to give my time by volunteering with small organizations that support local communities, and by donating money to organizations that align with my values. I want to focus on organizations that focus on helping low-income and working-class communities. I am also very interested in working with organizations in the future that focus on both dental and medical care, as these service is connected and important to good health.

Bralin Duckett

Washington University In St. Louis

Spring
2026

I plan to stay dedicated to giving through both service and philanthropy, supporting organizations, nonprofits, causes, and individuals who are driven by purpose, fueled by passion, and committed to creating positive change. I hope to do so with intention and openness, understanding that lasting impact requires consistent effort, active listening, and a willingness to grow. Through my contributions, I aim to not only meet immediate needs but also help build a foundation for long-term progress and opportunity for others.