With all the coverage we’ve been seeing lately about how the Giving Pledge has been picking up momentum in the global “billionaire” community, it got me thinking about philanthropy and giving back in general, and what it could mean depending on who you are.  While I had originally blogged on the topic of the Giving Pledge when it first came out in the news, I have a few additional thoughts on this I’d like to share. 

1. About the billionaire community going public with their pledges…I think it’s wonderful the momentum that is being created through “going public”, peer pressure and “branding” this as the Giving Pledge.  I hope it continues to pick up momentum around the world.  At the same time, I think we all need to be aware of the fact that this isn’t always net new giving, but just “going public” in order to help generate momentum and awareness.  For some, like Larry Ellison of Oracle, this philanthropy has already been in place but it’s been a very private matter.  It’s wonderful to see people like him willing to “go public” for the good of the cause of giving back.  It’s great to know that those who’ve done so well in business see that they have a responsibility of sorts to give back, and to influence others to give back.  I hope the charitable sector sees significant gain as a result of this.  

2. About the extendibility of the Giving Pledge…I wonder if we’ll see this “movement” extend to the world of Sports and Entertainment, where incomes – through salaries and sponsorships – are exorbitantly high.  I know that many already give back, but it would be great to see someone like George Clooney in the world of entertainment, or Steve Nash in the world of sports (at least for North America) make a bold statement and get some sort of Giving Pledge going in their worlds.  

3. About the average person…I wonder how much we’ll see the average person thinking about how they can do their part – in their own way – to give back a bit more.  While philanthropy is a very personal and relative thing, the possibilities are limitless.  It could be as small as a child emptying out his or her piggy bank every year and donating it to a cause, or asking for a donation or a gift for a charity for his/her birthday.  It could be becoming a regular monthly donor for a cause, or a regular sponsor – even if a small amount – of participants in various fundraising events.  It could something not financial at all, but simply being a volunteer or perhaps fundraising event participant who is raising awareness and funds for the cause, without being a donor.  And the list goes on. 

I know the charitable sector has been hit hard the last few years, so I hope that we do see a turn around, driven by everyone contributing in their own ways.  People should know that every little bit matters – it’s all relative, but it’s important.