National Philanthropy Day

Do good, feel good - that's our motto! Nothing manifests the human spirit of unity and generosity more than National Philanthropy Day. With over 11,975 mentions online, this day has been making hearts grow three sizes since its inception.

When is Philanthropy Day?

It's national philanthropy day on the 15th November.

A Little Background

Ever wake up in the morning with an inexplicable need to do good for the world? Welcome to National Philanthropy Day, my friend! A day that, judging by our data, reached peak popularity on 15th November 2017. A day to celebrate those that make a habit of selflessly giving to those in need.

What's The Big Deal?

You know the feeling when you buy your friend's coffee or help a stranger with their shopping bags? That fuzzy warm sensation of helping out? That's what National Philanthropy Day replicates on a grand scale! Only this time it's not just a single act, but a collective effort of philanthropy making the world a better place one act of kindness at a time.

Why Should I Care?

Well, aside of feeling like a superhero with the tagline 'saving the world, one good deed at a time', you also join an online community of over 11,000 philanthropists. Imagine that many like-minded individuals congregating online and planning on how to make a difference in the world... it's like Avengers Assemble, but way more heartwarming!

So, What Now?

Now that you're familiar with National Philanthropy Day, why not take part in the next one? Whether it's volunteering, donating to a local food bank, or just helping a neighbour with their lawn, every act of kindness counts. So gear up, future philanthropists, your community needs you!

History behind the term 'Philanthropy'

The Ancient World

Early Beginnings

The term 'philanthropy' originates from the Greek word 'philanthrōpía', which can be broken down to 'philos' meaning love or friend, and 'anthrōpos' meaning human being or mankind. In the ancient world, philanthropy referred to the love and concern for humanity. This concept can be traced back to classical civilizations such as Ancient Greece and Rome, where wealthy individuals would engage in acts of benevolence to benefit their communities.

18th Century

Emergence of Modern Philanthropy

During the 18th century, a new understanding of philanthropy emerged, influenced by Enlightenment ideals. This era witnessed the development of organized philanthropic efforts by individuals and institutions aiming to address social issues and promote the well-being of communities. Prominent figures such as Benjamin Franklin and John D. Rockefeller made substantial contributions to philanthropy, establishing foundations and institutions that continue to play a significant role in charitable endeavors today.

19th Century

Philanthropic Movements and Social Reform

The 19th century witnessed the rise of philanthropic movements and the connection between philanthropy and social reform. Many philanthropists, driven by a desire to combat societal problems, actively participated in various movements such as abolitionism, women's rights, education reform, and the fight against poverty. Notable figures like Andrew Carnegie and Jane Addams made substantial contributions and used their wealth to advance social causes, leaving a lasting impact on society.

20th Century

Professionalization of Philanthropy

In the 20th century, philanthropy underwent significant changes as it became a more organized and professionalized field. The establishment of philanthropic foundations, such as the Ford Foundation and the Rockefeller Foundation, furthered the institutionalization of philanthropy and allowed for large-scale and strategic giving. This era also saw the emergence of philanthropic advisors and professionals who specialized in managing and distributing charitable funds effectively.

21st Century

Global Philanthropy and Technology

In the 21st century, philanthropy has become increasingly globalized and interconnected. Individuals, foundations, and corporations now engage in philanthropic efforts on a global scale, addressing pressing issues such as poverty, healthcare, education, and environmental sustainability. Furthermore, advancements in technology and digital platforms have facilitated and democratized philanthropy, allowing for new and innovative ways of giving and leveraging social impact.

Did you know?

Did you know the word 'philanthropy' comes from the Greek words 'philos', meaning loving, and 'anthropos', meaning humankind? So essentially, philanthropy is just 'loving humankind' - which sounds a lot like what we should all be aiming for!