The Importance of Philanthropy: Why Michael Coleman Gives Back

Philanthropy is one of the most overlooked acts in today's society. With approximately one in twenty Americans being a millionaire, it is surprising that there is a shortage of people who give to charity. In order to demonstrate how important it is to remain involved, consider the following scenario.

John Doe is a New York resident currently living in Jamaica. He is a successful businessman that earns a considerable compensation which places him in the top one percent of all earners. Besides his busy schedule, however, he frequently gives back to his community and neighborhood in Queens. To better understand the consequences of John's actions, below is an analysis of the impact that he is making form three different perspectives.

From a Business Perspective

Although giving back to society aims to promote the betterment of others, it also helps one's professional ventures. Meaning, it helps them generate positive publicity. If John Doe has an accounting firm in Jamaica, New York, his involvement with the community will improve his public image. Consequently, more people will seek his services and demand will grow. Ultimately, this may even cause a spike in his revenues.

Of course, it is important to point out how philanthropy is not to be used for polishing one's public image. Instead, the fact that someone's publicity will be positively affected is nothing more than a byproduct. Nevertheless, it is relevant as it will allow Mr. Doe to reap another set of benefits by giving back to people. In the words of successful Canadian actor Michael Coleman, any benefit to oneself during charitable involvement is nothing more than a mere side effect.

From a Personal Perspective

Next, when John Doe participates in local events that help the community in Jamaica, he is facilitating personal growth. This is because it teaches one about diversity, commitment, and patience. First, by interacting with many different people who are in need of help, one is introduced to a high level of diversity. Consequently, they must learn how to address people with various backgrounds. Then, helping contribute to a long-term change takes time. This means that Mr. Doe will have to be very committed in order to make a difference.

Luckily, dedication and commitment are transferable skills. Meaning, Mr. Doe will be able to use his new abilities in other ventures as well. Lastly, philanthropy teaches many lessons about patience. This is because it revolves around interacting with strangers. Thus, staying patient throughout the adversity is necessary in order to be effective.

From the Community's Perspective

Going back to Michael Coleman and his statement, the most important goal of charitable contributions is helping the community. Thus, looking at the involvement from the community's perspective is what matters the most. To that end, below are some of the relevant ways in which people can help their neighborhoods.

Resources

One of the easiest ways to offer help to others is through contributing resources. This can involve anything from one's connection to tangible goods like clothing. So, in John Doe's case, it could mean providing meals to people in need in Jamaica. Then again, it could also mean finding job openings for people that may need employment.

Services

In case one has no resources to offer, they could always provide manual labor. This type of philanthropy revolves around some type of physical work. For example, John Doe may offer to do taxes for those who are below the poverty line. He could also offer to work in the kitchen for the homeless. In reality, the opportunities are basically endless so long as one is willing to do their best.

Financial Involvement

In the end, the easiest way to give back is to donate money. It involves very little to no actual work as one simply transfers the funds to the appropriate party. This tends to be the best alternative for those who may be unable to fit any extracurricular service into their busy schedule.