How to Find Your Voice as a Next-Gen Philanthropist

Philanthropy is no longer limited to older, established donors making large donations. Today’s younger generations—Millennials and Gen Z—are taking an active role in philanthropy, bringing fresh ideas, entrepreneurial mindsets, and a strong desire to make an impact. As a next-gen philanthropist, you have the potential to reshape how giving is perceived and practiced, creating a meaningful legacy that aligns with your values.

However, this journey isn’t always straightforward. Finding your voice as a next-gen philanthropist involves a blend of introspection, courage, and adaptability. Here are some key steps to help you navigate this rewarding but often complex path.

Reflect on Your Relationship with Wealth

Wealth can mean different things to different people, and as a young philanthropist, your feelings about it may be multifaceted. For some, wealth might represent opportunities to create a new tradition of giving, especially if you’re the first in your family to accumulate significant resources. For others, wealth might be inherited, potentially carrying expectations or traditions that you may not entirely connect with.

Instead of seeing these differences as limitations, use them as an opportunity to define what wealth means to you personally. Ask yourself: 

How do I feel about the responsibility that wealth brings? 

Do I want to follow my family’s approach, or do I envision a different path? 

Understanding your relationship with wealth is a powerful step toward creating your philanthropic voice.

Identify and Articulate Your Core Values

To establish a meaningful giving approach, it’s essential to explore and document your values. These values serve as a guide, helping you make consistent decisions that reflect your beliefs. Start by listing out what matters most to you. It could be values like community, innovation, environmental sustainability, or social justice. Reflect on past experiences and consider how they’ve shaped these values.

A written record of your values can serve as a foundation for your philanthropic mission. This document can evolve over time, guiding your decisions and even inspiring family members who may want to support your goals.

Engage in Experiential Learning

Learning by doing is a powerful way to solidify your beliefs and understand the impact you want to make. Dive into causes and issues that resonate with you, seeking firsthand insights. You might start by listening to podcasts, reading reports, or attending events hosted by organizations you admire. Explore grassroots initiatives, as they often operate directly within communities and can offer unique perspectives on pressing issues.

Building connections with other next-gen philanthropists can be invaluable. Conversations with peers who share your passion for impact can provide fresh ideas, encouragement, and potentially, collaboration opportunities that deepen your experience and amplify your impact.

Consider Alternative Approaches to Giving

Traditional philanthropy often centers on large, established organizations. But as a next-gen philanthropist, you’re in a position to innovate. Trust-based philanthropy, for example, focuses on empowering grantees by minimizing restrictive requirements. By adopting new approaches, you can foster more collaborative and transparent relationships, which can be more effective for driving meaningful change.

Advocacy can also be a powerful supplement to financial contributions. As a philanthropist, using your voice to influence policies and public opinion can sometimes yield broader and longer-lasting results than donations alone. Consider whether there are causes where you could take on an advocacy role to effect change at a systemic level.

Promote Open Communication and Mentorship

As you define your voice, encourage open communication between generations within your family or philanthropic network. By creating spaces where younger and older family members can discuss their perspectives on giving, you can build a philanthropic culture that respects tradition while embracing new ideas.

Mentorship can also play a critical role in your journey. Seek guidance from experienced philanthropists who can provide insights and support. In turn, consider mentoring others as your journey progresses, allowing you to foster a community of next-gen philanthropists committed to impactful giving.

Embrace Patience and Transparency

Philanthropy is a long-term commitment, and it’s essential to remain patient. The impact of your work may take years to materialize, especially when addressing complex social challenges. Embrace transparency in your giving journey by sharing your successes, as well as the lessons learned from setbacks. Not only does this build trust, but it also contributes to a culture of openness that others in the philanthropic space can learn from.

Conclusion: Your Role as a Changemaker

Being a next-gen philanthropist means more than writing checks—it’s about creating an authentic and purpose-driven legacy. You have the opportunity to redefine philanthropy for future generations by engaging in giving that reflects your values and inspires others. Through self-reflection, ongoing learning, innovative approaches, and meaningful connections, you can find your unique voice and make a lasting impact in the world.