FAQ + About Living Philanthropic

About Me:  I grew up on the south side of Chicago. I don’t come from money. I don’t have a lot of money. Growing up, my family would scrape by, yet somehow us kids were always fed and clothed with a roof over our heads. So, I dedicate this journey to my mom for showing me that you can do so much even when you have very little.

This page is to answer some of the questions, I’ve received. If you have any questions or comments, Feel free email me a question at: livingphilanthropic[at]gmail.com

Why are you doing this?

There are quite a few reasons why I’ve chosen to begin this project. While I have been generous in the past, sometimes I get so caught up in the day to day that I neglect the important things in life. I was walking down the street a few weeks back, thinking to myself: how easy would it be to donate to charity everyday? Apart from not having a ton of money to give, it is something that can be easily done with a little research and commitment. I thought to myself, it’s not important how much you give, as long as you give on a regular basis. So, I decided I am going to dedicate myself to giving every day for a year and documenting my journey, so that others may be able to follow and if they feel inspired, take on their own mission of giving. I also believe that we as youth generations need to become the leaders of a new movement of philanthropy. It is our responsibility to set the standards of giving for future generations. Lead by example and become the change you wish to see in the world.

Where does the money come from?

Well, this is an interesting question. I’ve actually had to take a look at my spending to find a way to move funds away from unnecessary expenses and applying that budgeted money to charity. Simply put, I have eliminated my daily coffee purchase and cut back on indulgent spending. Do I really need buy another plaid shirt that looks exactly like the one I already have? It’s small sacrifices that have allowed me to take on this journey, but also being responsible by taking care of food/rent/bills first, then analyzing what I can donate to charity. The goal is not to go broke, but to give everyday.

Isn’t better to invest in one charity?

Another great question, yes, in theory it would make more logical sense to invest everyday into one charity and I encourage you to find a charity that you love and make it your mission to give to them every day. This question leads me to another reason why I started this project, I wanted to highlight and support as many charities as possible, which is why I chose my mission as I did. In all fairness, there are so many wonderful organizations that help so many people and if I could invest in every one of them every day of the year I would. But, I am only capable of so much, so I hope that by highlighting a new charity each day it will inspire someone else to support the one that speaks to them and continue the chain of giving.

What happens after day 365?

I will be continuing my journey of giving. I am modifying year 2 and picking 12 charities, one a month and donate my daily gives in one lump sum to increase my impact.  For more information check out this post.

Do you have any tips to start my own year of giving back?

Yes, check out some tips on how to be an Every Day (Micro)-Philanthropist here. 

I made a donation. How do I add my donation to the inspired by total? 

You are a rockstar! That’s awesome, please fill out this form to add your donation to the inspired by tally!

Thank you for the questions! Keep them coming.