Message From the President
High impact philanthropy requires a team consisting of a donor’s financial, tax and legal advisors as well as experts in the field of philanthropy. Each plays a role in helping a donor to articulate his or her objectives and structure. Churchill could have been referring to philanthropy when he said; “However beautiful the strategy, you should occasionally look at the results.”
No Super Bowl-bound player has energized a city like quarterback Drew Brees has energized New Orleans. Much ado has been made about Drew’s on-field success and his charity work. However, few articles have detailed the extent of his philanthropic endeavors. It is more than just a donation or an athletic field. It is an investment in a whole city’s children.
During a time of natural disaster, we are often asked, “How can I do the most good?” Everyone wants to give to those who have been affected, but so often stories appear revealing instance after instance of well intended but rushed and ineffective generosity. As managed giving consultants for individuals, families and companies, we offer the following insight to give smarter in times of disaster and great need – whether you are giving $20 to aid immediately or want to join forces to make a lasting, sustainable change.
What does “managed giving” look like? How can Operation Kids help you? Nothing explains the concept like a real story.
An Operation Kids client wished to make a donation to a major children’s hospital. This donor has a son who suffers a condition that requires research, and they wished to facilitate that effort at the local children’s hospital.
There continues to be a lot of talk about the economy and the challenges ahead. We note with special interest, the impact it is having on charities across the country. There is no doubt that donations are reducing and charities are being forced to reassess themselves. Unfortunately, some may not survive, all at a time when need is rising.
I’ve sat through more than a few black-tie fundraisers in my lifetime and in many cases, wondered what impact the money raised would have. It is one of the things I’m conscious of each year as we plan the annual Operation Kids Lifetime Achievement Award Galas. Part of our pledge to donors is that we follow their money all the way through to the child in need.
As a friend and supporter of Operation Kids, I want you to know that you have made a difference this year in the lives of tens of thousands of children. Your reach has been broad, from supporting those lovable kids who are part of Best Buddies, to providing important financial assistance to children and families clinging to hope as part of the Children’s Organ Transplant Association.
