Learning by Giving at Binghamton University: 2020 Edition

In this course, Philanthropy and Civil Society, we are asked to think about how we can spend $10,000 in order to make a difference in the Binghamton community.  In order to use this money effectively, we are asked to think like philanthropists who have to make informed decisions on how they want to spend their money.   We’re supposed to learn about the decision making process and investigate non-profit organizations so we can spend these philanthropic dollars in the best way, and supposedly, carry on these skills in the future.  But how can we continue to be philanthropists if most of us are probably going to be stuck in student debt after college and can barely afford to eat in Marketplace? The first image that comes into my mind when thinking of a philanthropist is a millionaire who throws money at a charity and adds this self-proclaimed title to their growing list of accomplishments.  Philanthropy does not feel like a selfless act of generosity, but an act ...

Gigi's Playhouse is an organization that is very unique as it changes lives through consistent delivery of free educational, therapeutic-based and career development programs for individuals with Down syndrome and their families and the community. The mission of this organization is to change the way the world views Down Syndrome and to send a global message of acceptance for all. In addition, the vision of the organization is to see a world where individuals with Down syndrome are accepted and embraced in their communities. Throughout high school, I would volunteer at an elementary school helping students who had difficulty learning in a classroom setting. I knew in college that I wanted to help better the lives of children with disabilities or children who are underprivileged. This stemmed from a core value that has been implemented in me since childhood, under the belief that it is our responsibility to help those who are more disadvantaged than us, whether it be through vo...

She’s the First is a nonprofit organization motivated by the belief that all women deserve an excellent education. Beginning in November of 2009, the organization has been run by “advocates and changemakers” who “put girls first,” envisioning a world where young women may choose their own futures. She’s the First firmly believes that when a young girl is “educated, respected and heard,” she will gain ambition and flourish in all aspects of her life. When educated, girls are enabled to earn higher salaries as adults, making them less susceptible to underage marriage and childbearing, and creating pathways for strong social change.  I admire She’s the First for accomplishing the impossible. They have invested in countries in Western Africa, Eastern Africa, Latin America, and South Asia, and have stood up against systems that do not prioritize women’s education or freedom of expression. It is extremely difficult to enter a foreign country and try to create change. Logistically, thi...

            When a disaster hits, relief efforts start pouring in. People are more willing to give their money, time, and anything that they can to help others in that specific time of need. But what about the recovery? Injuries can take months or even years to heal, yet disasters are treated as a one and done situation. Healing is a process. There are areas and people still affected today from disasters or events that happened years ago. For example, Haiti experienced a massive earthquake in 2010 that killed 220,000-300,000 individuals, displaced 2.3 million people, and left damages estimated at $7.8 billion ( Haiti 10 years later ). Ten years later, Haiti is still experiencing the effects of the earthquake that left the country in shambles. While an estimated $13 billion was donated to Haiti within the first two years after the quake, it was still not enough for the planned and needed reconstruction. It was later discovered that half a billion dolla...

Welcome to the Philanthropy and Civil Society course blog! I hope you will use this space to explore more deeply the issues that come up in class and to share information about the nonprofit organizations that inspire you. This semester, you will have $10,000 to give away, and possibly more. It's a decision that comes with big consequences for the Binghamton community and one for which you will be accountable. So, use this space to engage with your classmates, critically, respectfully and with a compassionate spirit. I hope this blog is a place that enriches your experience in the class.