Giving Compass' Take:

• Long-time donor Joe Hamilton explains the importance of strategically seeking out organizations that are successful and effective in their work.

• What other advice should be given to next generation donors?

• Read about the next generation philanthropists' role in creating social change.

Changing the financial system is hard work. At Accion, we’re fortunate to not only have a team that’s dedicated to building a more inclusive future but to have donors who share our drive and help make our work possible.

Joe Hamilton is one of these generous donors. He’s now retired from his position but he’s still making his mark on the world. I recently caught up with Joe to talk about why he supports Accion.

Q: Why do you support Accion?

A: Accion’s central mission is to find creative ways to help people help themselves — in particular, to help people improve their standard of living, to also do it in a way that gives them and treats them with dignity, and enables them to take more control over their own lives and find ways they can support themselves.

Q: What has inspired your desire to give back philanthropically and be involved in that arena?

A: Well I think it’s an obligation that we all have, so maybe it’s a sense that you have benefited from society you have a responsibility to give back.

Q: Would you have any advice to the upcoming millennials who are about to be a significant economic force about engaging in the philanthropic space?

A: The earlier you can start giving, the better, and you don’t need to think that you are going to change the world alone. I think you can do more good by supporting organizations that do good.

Read the full article about why giving back in important by Jessica Lynn Wickman at Medium