Giving Compass' Take:

• At the Lilly School of Philanthropy, staff and students participated in a civic reflection workshop where they expanded their definition of philanthropy. 

• Would it be beneficial for you to develop this definition to advance your charitable goals?

• Check out the changemaker model of philanthropy.

In July, Lilly Family School of Philanthropy staff members and student workers participated in a civic reflection workshop led by Dr. Elizabeth Lynn, founding director of the Center for Civic Reflection and special projects consultant for Lake Institute on Faith & Giving.

What is civic reflection? Ph.D. student Christina Eggenberger explains it as “a way for people to discuss big ideas around a brief, shared reading or image. It really allows people to bring their own experiences to a conversation through the shared context of that brief reading or image.”

Dr. Lynn asked participants to read a short story by Chilean poet and diplomat Pablo Neruda about a gift he received as a child, and one he gave in return.

Reflecting on our experiences participating in the discussion, we identified three lessons that not only apply to our work in philanthropy, but to anyone studying and working in this field.

  1. Expanding the parameters of philanthropy
  2. Philanthropy (and generosity) is everywhere
  3. It’s important to focus on thought and reflection, and not just action, in one’s work

Read the full article about expanding philanthropy through civic reflection by Rafia Khader and Abby Rolland at Lilly Family School of Philanthropy.