Learning How to Give

As a philanthropist, I have a lot to learn even in my advanced age. I have given money to food banks, Planned Parenthood, public television stations, political campaigns, and my college. Recently, instead of sending a check to my college, I’m sending the same amount, yearly, to my nieces and nephews who are in college or taking advanced degrees. Why not give money to people I know and love who are going to college rather than have those bucks go to strangers at my alma mater?

In January of 2026 I begin a new philanthropic journey. Eleven women, including me, will meet quarterly, $100 in hand each time, prepared to donate a total of $1100 to a single non-profit deemed most worthy of the three presented that evening. Gifting to a different non-profit every four months, is our goal.

Now, I’m supposed to present a worthy non-profit during the first meeting; two other women will make presentations as well. I’m overwhelmed by the wealth of choices in San Luis Obispo County and Santa Barbara County and impressed by the service groups that provide for people in our area. My sense is I may be the only one in the group who is a published author, so I’d like to begin by investigating non-profits in the arts.

I’m aware of the research I must do to make sure my cause is worthy and the administrative costs (if it’s a non-profit) are reasonable. Proper vetting includes evaluating outcomes and impacts of donations, judging leadership and transparency, and assessing their online presence and history.

I’m pleased to have a process as well as friends with whom to ‘give,’ and an impetus to learn more about my community as I build my confidence as a philanthropist.

More about this journey later in the year.