Welcome to Philanthropy.org, where the nonprofit world comes together to share thoughts, discuss issues, teach, and learn.

The term "philanthropy" comes from the Greek words philos (loving) and anthropos (humankind). It was coined by the Greek playwright Aeschylus in the 5th century BCE.

Featured Nonprofit of the Month

United Way of Lehigh Valley

Featured in Giving Today and Tomorrow Magazine

Paul "Chip" Hurd
Chief Philanthropy Officer

When you live in the same community for 50 years, relationships go deep. For Chip, who was born and raised and raised his kids in the Lehigh Valley, Pennsylvania, many United Way donors are not just professional acquaintances, but personal friends.

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VISIONARY VOICES

Depicted growth with individuals holding hands around a green globe

6 Fundraising Questions to Ask Yourself for 2025

As 2025 begins, nonprofits must evaluate their fundraising strategies to stay resilient and adaptive in a changing landscape. This blog highlights six essential questions to guide your planning, covering key areas like accepting non-cash gifts, implementing legacy giving strategies, diversifying revenue streams, and retaining talented development staff. It also explores the transformative role of AI tools and the critical importance of an engaged Board of Directors. By addressing these questions, your organization can uncover opportunities, tackle challenges, and set the stage for sustainable growth in the year ahead.

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Single pawn stepping out of the rest depicting unfair with a sad face

The System Is Not Unfair

Fairness is subjective, often rooted in financial literacy gaps, not systemic bias. The system rewards those who understand its rules and take personal responsibility, while ignorance fuels the illusion of unfairness. Genuine inequalities exist but don’t define the entire system. This nation offers many free resources—take advantage of them. Blaming the system disempowers; mastering knowledge, strategy, and effort empowers. Success favors those who learn, adapt, and take control.

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Two men facing away - democrat and a republican

Next 4 Years: Thrive or Survive?

The next four years are yours to shape, no matter who sits in the Oval Office. In times of change, there are three types of people: the delusional, the passive, and the ones who take control and make it happen. Success isn’t about luck—it’s about mindset, action, and personal growth. While the world around you may be chaotic, you have the power to focus on what you can control: your mindset, your skills, and your network. Stop waiting for someone else to change things for you. Will you rise, or will you let life happen to you like the 98% who do nothing but hope and complain? The choice is yours.

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2025 Goal Setting

Ten Resolutions to Move Your Nonprofit Forward in 2025

You’ve had 365 days to keep your 2024 New Year’s resolutions—how well did you do? Statistics show that if you’re like most Americans, over 80% of those resolutions were toast by February. But, since you’re here reading Philanthropy.Org, I’m hopeful you’re among the 8% who wrote their resolutions down, and then actually kept it.

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Woman applauding at a gala dinner

The Art of Giving vs. Tuxedos and Hors d’Oeuvres

Philanthropy: Heart Over Glitz! When we think of philanthropy, it’s easy to picture glamorous galas, tuxedos, and polished speeches. But true giving isn’t about appearances; it’s about connection. It’s about seeing someone’s need, extending a hand, and recognizing our shared humanity. From small gestures, like a simple brownie shared in a dark time, to life-altering mentorships, the essence of philanthropy lies in the heart behind the act. This isn’t about wealth or prestige—it’s about kindness and the power it has to transform lives. Let’s explore how authentic generosity, no matter the scale, can create ripples of meaningful change.

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Woman looking out the window open to opportunities

Window of Opportunity for Nonprofits

You do not have much time. Over the next fifteen years, Baby Boomers will pass along a staggering $84 trillion to their heirs and to the causes they care about—an incredible $12 trillion of which could land in nonprofit coffers. Is your organization ready to claim its share of this once-in-a-generation opportunity? Setting up a planned giving program doesn’t just secure your mission’s future; it also boosts your nonprofit career. Keep reading to find out why planned giving is the key to unlocking lasting financial stability, deeper donor connections, and valuable leadership opportunities in the sector.

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