General Motivations For Charitable Giving

In The Seven Faces of Philanthropy, Russ A. Prince and Karen M. File present a framework of seven general philanthropic approaches or outlooks in our society. ¹

Communitarians
Communitarians are individuals who give because of their sense of belonging to a social community. They give, not out of a sense of obligation, but because they consider nonprofit organizations more effective at delivering social services and more attuned with community needs. These people often have a history in, and ties to, their local community. They support cultural, human service, religious and educational organizations.

The Devout
The Devout do good because it is God’s will. They believe that giving is a moral obligation. Everyone needs to take responsibility for creating a better world and should not expect personal recognition for volunteering of time, talent or money.

Investors
Investors see philanthropy as “good business.” They are motivated by the personal tax and estate benefits philanthropy represents. They also give in the same way they invest their personal wealth—looking for nonprofit causes and organizations which are business-like and effectively respond to civic needs.

Socialites
Socialites focus on doing good work or charitable giving of money because it can be fun. They are often members of a social class or group for which fundraising includes some form of socializing and entertainment. The authors acknowledge that Socialites are often charitable “at heart.”

Altruists
Altruists tend to focus on social causes and giving that provide a sense of purpose and personal fulfillment. They believe giving promotes spiritual growth (in this case, not religious-based). Giving is a moral imperative and everyone’s responsibility. They see themselves as the true philanthropists, unfettered and untainted by business considerations or personal gain.

Repayers
Repayers do good in return for what they have received in life. This can involve gratitude for medical or educational benefits they’ve received. They think wealthy people have a special responsibility to be philanthropic in their actions and social outlook. Repayers insist on cost-effectiveness and want nonprofit organizations to focus on client needs.

Dynasts
Dynasts see philanthropy as a family tradition. Their giving results from childhood socialization by parents or other relatives as to the importance of philanthropy. Philanthropy is part of their self-concept and their rewards from giving include a positive self-identity and strengthened family values. They believe philanthropy is everyone’s responsibility.

The diversity of charitable giving in our society is amazing and inspiring. May this brief overview of “who we are” and “why we give” aid you and your family in understanding and enhancing your own charitable efforts.

NOTES

1. Prince, Russ A. and Karen M. File. The Seven Faces of Philanthropy, San Francisco: Jossey-Bass, 1994.