Nelson Mandela’s Five Philanthropy Lessons

SEATTLE - Dec. 7, 2013 - PRLog -- Philanthropy Advisor Richard Bray shares five Nelson Mandela quotes that provide some important lessons for effective charitable giving...

“A good head and a good heart are always a formidable combination.”

Nelson Mandela clearly used his heart and head to deeply care for and persevere in bringing hope to South Africa. It took both to overcome the hatred and imprisonment he suffered. Likewise, you can use your heart to discern and to care for the cause that you are called to champion. Your head can evaluate charities and programs that actually achieve results.  You want success with your charitable giving—use heart and head!

“Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.”

Education is the way to leverage the change needed to improve oppressive circumstances. Mandela understood this. Consequently, focus your philanthropy on outreach that provides education to improve people’s lives, fosters advocacy and shares best practices. Achieve impact in your giving.

“It always seems impossible until it’s done.”

Mandela knew that sustained commitment to a seemingly overwhelming cause is the secret to success. He was also aware of the how powerful an individual can be in standing up for human dignity.

Don’t be afraid to choose what seems impossible and make a long-term commitment to fight for it. Real transformation can happen: in your heart and soul and in the conditions you are trying to help improve.

“I detest racialism, because I regard it as a barbaric thing, whether it comes from a black man or a white man.”

To Mandela no race was better than another. He believed each person had worth regardless of the color of their skin. We are all part of the human family. Our charitable giving should also reject discrimination and see all as our brothers and sisters.

“If there are dreams about a beautiful South Africa, there are also roads that lead to their goal. Two of these roads could be named Goodness and Forgiveness.”

Mandela knew that to achieve lasting change of conditions in South Africa there needed to be real change in people’s hearts. He wanted to get to the root. What are your dreams for healing in our world and what is the pathway? Unless we operate in goodness, and are prepared to readily forgive people for real injustice or perceived slights, it is impossible to build the partnerships and trust needed for the collaboration necessary to overcome poverty and human rights abuse.

“Reflect on this great man’s lessons. Pray for the strength to imitate them in the small or big causes you are called to be involved in,” says Bray.

About Richard Bray

Richard Bray helps individuals, businesses and charities with strategic charitable giving and philanthropy that reflects their values and impacts our world.

He is a member of the Seattle Philanthropic Advisors Network. “My vision is that every person in our world is equipped to be a strategic giver.” Richard can be reached at www.StrategicGivingAdvisor.com.