Philanthropy and Charitable Giving
What is philanthropy and how can it help animals
Philanthropy is part of our US identity. We can be proud of the fact that as a country, we believe in giving back and take our philanthropic responsibility seriously. And luckily for many charities like us, charitable giving is part of the lives of many generations, from Millenials to Baby Boomers in 2021.
For many people, donating is a deeply personal issue, and many factors can come into play when someone is deciding which charities to support.
We understand those concerns and believe it’s important to ask yourself questions like: What are good charities to donate to in 2021? Will my money be spent in the right way? Is FOUR PAWS a good nonprofit to donate to?
In this article, we will discuss the following:
- What is philanthropy?
- How to decide which charities to donate to in a post-COVID world?
- Philanthropic responsibility for animals
- Our donor advised funds
What is Philanthropy?
In a nutshell: Philanthropy is the desire to promote the welfare of others, expressed especially by the generous donation of money to good causes.
However, philanthropy can be more than just donating money to a charity. Actions such as signing a petition and volunteering to help others are also examples of philanthropy.
Another example specific to FOUR PAWS is donating your old fragrances to one of our big cat sanctuaries. (Did you know that they love new smells?)
Isn’t it wonderful to know there are multiply ways to support a cause you believe in?
Am I a philanthropist?
A philanthropist is a person who donates time, money, experience, skills or talent to help create a better world. Anyone can be a philanthropist, regardless of age or occupation.
We think you are!
You may also be wondering: is there a difference between philanthropy and charitable giving?
There is indeed a small difference.
Philanthropy is more long-term and strategic and often involves making multiple gifts to help people over a number of years. While charity is focused on providing immediate relief to people and animals, philanthropy is more focused on problem solving in order to help people and animals over the long-term.
Why consider FOUR PAWS?
We believe FOUR PAWS is an important cause that offers opportunities for both philanthropists and charitable givers. We work on both strategic and long-term approaches, as well as provide immediate relief to animals in need.
Around the world, our different departments step in whenever and wherever the need is highest. We rescue animals after emergencies or when they are in desperate need of our help, but we also work hard to make sustainable changes on a larger scale.
We believe in transparency with our stakeholders and are committed to making this world a better place for animals, worldwide. Read more about what we, as an international animal welfare organization, do for animals.
How do you decide which charities to donate to in 2021?
Here are three ways that can help with deciding which cause is right for you. OR – Here are three things to think about when deciding which cause is right for you.
First, identify the topics you care about. Then think about issues and causes related to that topic that are important to you.
An example: would you like to donate to stray animals in need or to protect the environment? The number of options and funding needs are countless, so we advise you to first decide which field you wish to donate to.
Found a promising cause? Like say, animal welfare? 😉 From there you can become more specific, such as helping stray dogs in Cambodia or supporting rescued bears at a sanctuary
Second, map out which charity is working most effectively to support this specific cause that you have in mind. Is this cause reliable, transparent, is there room for funding, and what is their track record?
Third, decide how you want to donate. If you’re donating money, see if your donation can be matched by your employer. Or, instead of receiving gifts for your birthday, start a Facebook fundraiser and ask people to donate on your behalf to your selected charity instead. It’s also good to see what kinds of funds a charity offers, in case you‘d like to give to them monthly or donate to a specific project of theirs.
If you shop online through Amazon, shop via Amazon Smile, which allows you to pick a charity that then receives proceeds from all the purchases you make! And, if the charity also runs a sanctuary, they may have an Amazon list available online with specific items needed for the sanctuary.
Depending on the cause your supporting, you may also be able to donate specific items, like food to your local food pantry, or volunteer your time at an event the charity is having. Here you can find different ways to give at four paws.
Feel FOUR PAWS may be the right match for you? Find out more about our organization, our mission and vision here.
Philanthropic responsibility for animals
As a non-profit and independent animal welfare organization, FOUR PAWS is financed exclusively by donations. Therefore, every single dollar counts!
As an international animal welfare organization, we are confronted with the worldwide suffering of animals on a daily basis. This is why we do whatever it takes — for as long as it takes — to rescue and protect animals no matter where they are in the world.
From our emergency rescue missions in conflict zones like Gaza, to our sanctuaries and clinics that operate in dozens of countries, to shutting down dog and cat meat slaughterhouses in Southeast Asia, we are creating a world where animals are treated with respect, empathy, and understanding. We are committed to creating sustainable, long-term change for animals.
But we cannot make this happen without you.
Our donor advised funds
Within FOUR PAWS USA, we have several donor advised funds each with its own purpose. All together they serve our goal, which is to reveal, rescue and protect.
So, now you know!
We’re hope you’re convinced to be part of our philanthropic community and join our FOUR PAWS Family. Together, we can rescue more animals in need and make the world a kinder place for animals everywhere.
And, last but not least: Enjoy donating! Research has shown that the act of giving versus receiving results in longer lasting happiness for the giver. So, In the pursuit of happiness, the kindness you bestow on others is twofold, and who wouldn’t want that?
