Local Philanthropists Gather in October

What does it take to be a philanthropist? Generosity and charity are admirable human traits. Many people are generous. You may think philanthropy is out of your reach, a term only for the very wealthy. But the definition includes all of us. A philanthropist is a person who seeks to promote the welfare of others, especially by the generous donation of money to worthy causes. We can look to the uber wealthy for inspiration, and we should.

Warren Buffett tops the list as the biggest giver estimating $56.7 billion in lifetime giving.

Melinda French Gates is one of world’s top female philanthropists, uplifting underserved communities through donations made via The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. The Streisand Foundation, founded by Barbara Streisand, has donated over $25 million to some 800 organizations in support of women’s issues, environmental preservation, and more. Dolly Parton donated $1 million to fund Coronavirus research in the early days of the pandemic.

Of course we have to mention the  Oprah Winfrey Foundation, which has donated over $40 million to various causes around the world.

Look around Faribault and you will see evidence of tremendous local philanthropy. Prominent family names grace the doors of Buckham West, Ice arenas, conference rooms, the library, schools and more. Local donors have stepped up to participate in the Foundation Hand Up campaign. Our community nonprofits enjoy the support of many local donors.

What does that have to do with you? You can be a philanthropist too. By combining gifts, great and small, the Faribault Foundation gives everyone the opportunity to be a philanthropist.

We are hosting two events in October that welcome all generous philanthropists! For a donation of $100.00 you can be part of raising a fast $10,000.00 to support a local cause and the community foundation.

Both events are run the same way. Each person contributes $100.00 to bring the total raised to $10,000.00 for each event. Each person who attends enters a favorite local cause in a drawing. Three are chosen at random to be finalists. Then those in attendance vote for one of the three. The organization with the most votes gets $5000.00!

100 Women Who Care is in its 4th year. This year the event is on October 6 at the Apple Creek Orchard from 4-6 pm. Their new pavilion will be a perfect fall gathering place for the 100 Women Event.

The 100 Men on a Mission event is on October 24, with a game day theme to watch the Vikings. The event starts at 6 pm and you will be home by halftime.

Of course there are impressive conversations, outstanding food, and the best feeling ever, of helping a local organization with a significant gift.

CLICK HERE for all the details or give us a call at 507-805-8800.

OK – maybe we are not at the level of Gates and Buffet, but we are philanthropists. And so are you! Generosity brings joy to the giver AND the receiver. We would love to have you join us!