Philanthropy is the act of connecting these sectors of society for the betterment of all. The ancient Greeks used the term “Philanthropia”, which means ‘love of humanity’. Webster’s Dictionary refers to philanthropy as an act of goodwill to promote human welfare. Philanthropy Australia, the national peak body for philanthropy, holds an annual conference in August in Adelaide this year.
This event has the primary aim of connecting the philanthropic and not-for-profit sectors, by providing advocacy, networking and resources, as well as information and research for the Australian community.
Our executive officer, Amanda McCulloch, and I had the privilege to attend this event, with the Greater Shepparton community at the very front of our minds while we piece together how our organisation can best meet the needs of our community.
It is estimated that $2.6 trillion will pass between generations in Australia over the next two decades. Philanthropy Australia has a very real blueprint for double-structured giving over the next 10 years by tapping into some of this generational wealth transfer.
Equally, the Federal Government has set an ambitious goal to double charitable giving in the same time-frame. And, given a recent legislation reform in the sector, it has meant the public and private family funds holding these assets have an easier time getting that money out into the community, where it is intended to be. Greater Shepparton Foundation is beautifully placed to take full advantage of this momentous shift in wealth for the betterment of our local community.
The conference highlighted the importance of ensuring everyone feels empowered to be a part of the social change-making that is occurring. Philanthropy is perceived to involve only the wealthy, when in fact this is only a part of a very intricate and dedicated system of stakeholders.
The volunteers, the small-scale donors, the community-led initiatives, the workplace givers, the weekend helpers and the business community advocates are all vital players in the important world of philanthropic giving.
GSF has long been a conduit in our community, a connector of these people and groups, and we are working hard to ensure we remain a vital piece of sustainable community giving infrastructure long into the future.
We invite you to be part of our vision for Greater Shepparton. We are working towards inclusive, interconnected communities where everybody has an equal opportunity to participate.
Your support will assist us in achieving our goal of amplifying, assisting and elevating community-driven change in our priority areas of focus.
With your generosity, we can collaborate to strengthen our community by building social and economic resilience.
If you would like to find out more about how a tax-deductible donation to GSF benefits the Greater Shepparton community, please visit our website at www.greatershepparton.foundation or to donate, please visit the ‘donate’ page on the website.
Julia Thomas
Greater Shepparton Foundation vice-chair
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