Philanthropy is Ageless

Anyone can be a philanthropist no matter the age, income or location by simply being generous. "I was generous today," is an encouraging statement that does not take a $100 donation or 1,000 volunteer hours to say. Simply telling someone "Thank You," dropping off your aluminum cans at donation sites, or holding the door open for a stranger are all forms of everyday generosity. Philanthropists are generous individuals who find ways, big or small, to contribute towards humanity through passionate charitable efforts. Generosity is the willingness to invest your time, skills, voice, energy, and resources to benefit those in need. If you share with other community members about your giving experience, it can inspire them to do the same causing an even larger impact!

People can struggle with questions such as “Will my contribution be good enough?” “How do I know what I am passion about?” “Are my passions really being addressed by this organization?” and “What results can I expect from my contribution?” Sadly, some of these questions prevent generosity but it is important to know non-profits are willing to speak with you to answer such questions. Three big reasons why philanthropy is so important are the demand for services is growing, government funding is decreasing and even disappearing for some organizations, but more importantly, the cost of everything is trending upwards. At the Club, we want all of our donors to know all donations are. Every donation helps keeps the Club running and open for our youth. The act of giving connects all donors as well as the desire to further the mission and vision of the Club.

Mission:

To inspire and enable all young people, especially those who need us most, to reach their full potential as productive, caring, responsible citizens.

Vision:

The Boys & Girls Club of the Northern Plains will be a dynamic diverse organization that is recognized as champions for youth as well as, a leader for positive change in the world.

The Boys & Girls Club of the Northern Plains believes in fostering a culture of philanthropy. So much so, philanthropy is a main component in staff orientation. Staff and board members must understand the word, what it means and what a culture would look like.  Among many of the “signs of a philanthropic culture” we look for in our organization, some you will hopefully see in being connection with the Club are: Donors are important at every level highly important whether it is financial, in-kind, or volunteering. Donors and volunteers deserve thanks and results of what his or her contribution has done for the Club! Stewarding is a primary goal of the Club and projects done each year involving the kids. Coloring or constructing crafts are the kids’ favorite ways to thank donors because it also involves our youth in learning and practicing gratitude. Resource Development is explained as not just fundraising but the establishment of philanthropic culture.

We believe South Dakotans, especially those in the communities we serve, are great examples of generosity we applaud them for that! From following Club Facebook pages to volunteering at events, we see their support every day. We would like to thank everyone who supports BGCNP in whichever capacity they choose! Their investments in our youth make it possible for Great Futures to Start HERE.

Learn even more ways on how to be generous at https://www.southdakotagives.org/why-participate to celebrate National Giving Tuesday and South Dakota Day of Giving on Tuesday, December 3, 2019 and the United Way Helpline Center to find volunteer opportunities in your area at http://www.helplinecenter.org/volunteer-connections/ !