But if we look at its etymology, we see that philanthropy means "the love of humanity". (Thanks, Wikipedia!)
Which means that philanthropy isn't an activity exclusive to the rich and famous, but something that you and I might already be doing in our day-to-day lives. It's the care we show our loved ones when we pick up a meal for them when they're sick, or the times we sit and comfort a friend. It happens every time we volunteer our time and energy to a group or a cause we believe in, and when we gift a smile to a stranger having a blue day. It's why initiatives like The Sketchbook Project and Papergirl Vancouver exist.
In 2012, the Vancouver Foundation published its results on the difficulties Vancouverites face and discovered that a quarter of our population suffers from isolation and loneliness. A majority of respondents complain to some degree about a lack of community and the challenges in meeting new people.
We at Papergirl Vancouver believe that our project -- along with many others -- is a vehicle for us to make connections with one another across the Lower Mainland and even with those around the world. In response to the Vancouver Foundation's findings, we have more art workshops and events planned for the summer than ever before. If you haven't already done so, sign up for our newsletter to stay up-to-date with our plans. Let us know what other kinds of community initiatives you know of and enjoy that help you stay connected with our communities.
As one of the greatest philanthropists, Mother Teresa, said, "It's not how much we give but how much love we put into giving." We can all be philanthropists in the little ways we give -- and if we ever do earn heaps of money, we can do our own great, newsworthy thing. Like giving away a flock of bikes, Papergirl-style.
- Lillienne Zen