Giving Compass' Take:

• Kris Putnam-Walkerly reveals the importance of changing your giving mindset to shed restrictive barriers and address current global crises.

• How can changing your giving mindset open you up to more effective opportunities to correct systemic racism and help those affected by coronavirus? What are you doing to change your giving mindset and encourage others to do the same?

• Learn more about why changing your giving mindset is essential in responding to the pandemic disaster.

During COVID-19, we’ve seen how systemic racism and injustice magnifies personal hardship and undermines recovery. We’re also witnessing what happens when too many nonprofit organizations balance on a financial knife’s edge. So, just when we need robust social safety nets, civil society is at its weakest. Hard on the heels of that massive need, we’re experiencing an even more deafening call to action to condemn business as usual and dismantle racism in this country.

It’s a lot. And it amplifies a question that philanthropists have been grappling with for decades. How do you sensitively and effectively use your power, privilege, and means most effectively—especially in the face of so much need? The answer to that question is complex and multi-faceted. But one thing is for sure: as a funder, you won’t achieve the dramatic changes you seek if you continue clinging to beliefs and practices that are misguided and “delusional.” That’s why I wrote a book about it. It’s called Delusional Altruism.

Now, by “delusional” I don’t mean we’re stupid or crazy! I mean we’re hindering our impact unnecessarily, because of a handful of deceptive and illogical thoughts we choose to hold onto.

The path to truly transformational change can be found by clarifying your purpose and transforming the way you work.

COVID-19 and the outpouring of response to police violence, ongoing racism, and divisive leadership have all combined to daylight just how tied together we all are, and just how urgently change is needed. Instead of feeling overwhelmed, it’s an opportunity for philanthropists to up your game. By asking the right questions and building trusting relationships, you’ll be doing the important internal work required for collective transformation.

Read the full article about changing your giving mindset by Kris Putnam-Walkerly at Glasspockets.