Giving Back Through Gifting

Time. Treasure. Talent.

These are the three “Ts” of philanthropy, commonly given by you or me to a deserving cause or organization.

Growing up in a small town, with a family very active in our church, school, and community, I learned at a young age that giving back was beneficial not only to the recipient but also to the giver. This was reinforced as I worked professionally in the nonprofit world. For more than twenty years, I experienced firsthand the well-being bestowed upon my organizations,  our patrons, as well as the well-being received by the giver.

Well-Being

That feeling of “well” (the goodness and compassion), along with the feeling of “being” (contributing to a part of something bigger) is programmed into my DNA. It continues to guide my time, treasure, and talent decisions not only personally but also at Favorable.

It was no surprise that, after opening a gifting business, people soon started asking for charitable gifts. Honestly, to date, the requests have been nominal and manageable. As I consider what the next few years look like, certain parameters will need to be set in place for donations from Favorable. For now, though, I consider requests individually as they come in and evaluate their impact on the giver, their chosen recipient, and the amount of benefit to the community.

But What?

For example, I have a connection to heart disease. Eric’s family has a history of it so it is important to me to do what I can to help. So, when my friend asked me to do a purse for the Go Red for Women luncheon, I went all out. I found a gorgeous, woven Italian leather, tote purse at TJ Maxx. Being who I am, I could leave it at that. I filled the tote with Italian pasta, Italian crystal wine glasses, marinara sauce, and a gift card to a local wine store. It was an Italian getaway in a bag!

Another fun ask was when a friend raised money through her family and friends for a school auction. She said she wasn’t “good at this stuff” so asked me if I’d help find themed items within her budget. She gave me a few ideas and I ran with them. One of those ideas included a one-week stay in a condo on a Florida beach. So OF COURSE I did a beach-themed bag filled with all kinds of beachy items.

Now You

Think about what you care about and give! Whether it’s time, talent, or treasure, do it. It is one of the most fulfilling things I do and could be for you, too.