The darkness of winter is fading, the days are getting longer, the earth is starting to turn green with the promise of brightly colored flowers to follow. With that promise comes hope for what is possible in the future.
That is how I think of philanthropy throughout the year. Philanthropy—the love of humanity—is fundamentally hopeful. It is the belief, followed by action, that one person can help empower others with the contribution of their time, talent or treasure. It is the belief, that by investing ourselves, we can help positively affect the futures of our neighbors and our community.
The WCA’s volunteers and donors give hope to our clients in a myriad of ways, large and small. One of my happiest memories from the holiday season was a mom who thanked and hugged the volunteer who helped her put her family’s holiday gifts in her vehicle. That simple act of philanthropic kindness from a stranger gave that mom and her children hope and will be something she remembers for the rest of her life.
Every $120 we receive represents a day of safe shelter, counseling, case management, and court advocacy for a mom living in our shelter. Think about what the means for her and her children! The wrap around services she receives help her develop the skills she needs to live a life free from domestic abuse. The philanthropic acts of strangers give her hope for her family’s future in our community.
