Shared Generosity: Our Executive Director, Tammy, Reflects on Inspiring Generosity in Personal, Professional & Workplace Interactions
Hello, GiveWise community,
As the Executive Director of GiveWise Foundation Canada, I've had the opportunity to meet so many incredible people and witness tremendous acts of generosity. Among all the tools we offer, the "Share Funds With Others" feature is my personal favourite. It epitomizes the essence of what we do—facilitating meaningful connections and collaborative giving.
Generosity as a Family Tradition
Every Christmas since our kids were young, we've incorporated a special tradition. Instead of the usual holiday presents, we've shared funds with them from our Giving Fund, encouraging them to support causes close to their hearts. Now, as they stand on the cusp of adulthood at 19 and 21, it's incredible to see how this tradition of generosity has influenced their lives and shaped their paths.
My daughter, with her fierce sense of justice, has always gravitated towards causes that fight inequality and champion human rights. Her choices reflect her deep commitment to making the world a fairer place. On the other hand, my son, who has recently developed a passion for all things automotive. He has been dedicating his time and energy to a remarkable program that brings high school students and young adults together, teaching them about car mechanics and engineering in a community setting. His involvement not only fuels his own interests but also contributes to the education and empowerment of others.
Connecting Through Generosity
Another way I've embraced shared giving is through our interactions with partners and professionals. On the back of my business card, there's a QR code offering $100 for the bearer to donate to their favorite charity. This simple yet profound gesture has opened countless conversations about the power of giving and introduced many to the joy of philanthropy. The impact of these cards can go beyond the initial $100 donation, as it can act as a ripple effect, starting a wave of shared funds to be passed on to the next person, and sparking their passion for giving as well.
When meeting with financial professionals, we extend this culture of sharing by offering them a "Share Funds" experience. This isn’t just an introduction to GiveWise; it's an invitation to join a movement that transcends the traditional boundaries of philanthropy. By sharing funds with these professionals, we're not only showcasing the simplicity and impact of our platform but also igniting a spark of generosity that we hope will inspire their work with clients. It's a way of demonstrating, in the most direct manner possible, how GiveWise can be a tool for change, both personally and professionally.
Empowering Our Team Through Shared Giving
As I write this, a realization dawns on me: we've been advocating the power of shared generosity, yet we haven't fully embraced this practice within our own team at GiveWise. This moment of reflection has sparked a commitment to change—to truly practice what we preach by integrating the "Share Funds With Others" feature into our team culture.
To kickstart this initiative, we've decided to celebrate each employee's dedication and hard work in a meaningful way. Starting now, on every employee's annual anniversary, we will donate a designated amount of funds to their personal Giving Fund. By embarking on this journey, we not only strengthen our team's bond but also multiply our impact on the community and the world at large.
A Call to Share Your Story
I encourage you, as part of the GiveWise community, to explore the "Share Funds With Others" feature and create your own stories of shared generosity. Whether it's involving your family in the spirit of giving, engaging your colleagues in philanthropy, or simply spreading kindness within your community, the possibilities are endless.