Kind Contributions

Defining the Style

Kind Contributions is the shared passion for philanthropy and positive change. It involves individuals driven by a common goal to do good in the world, engaging in acts that benefit others and contribute to societal improvement. Engaging in philanthropic activities offers a resounding sense of purpose and fulfillment. Sharing a commitment to positive change can strengthen bonds between individuals as they work towards a common goal. Contributing to the welfare of others can enhance one’s emotional and mental well-being. Participating in community service projects or volunteering for charitable organizations, organizing or contributing to fundraising events for causes or non-profit organizations, and engaging in advocacy work for social, environmental, or humanitarian causes are all examples of Kind Contributions.

Places to Pick

Community service centers, charity events, social advocacy groups, animal shelters, senior centers, environmental clean-ups, food banks, non-profit organization events, community gardens, local libraries for literacy programs, habitat restoration projects, soup kitchens, youth mentoring programs, community art projects, hospital volunteer programs, clothing donation centers, homeless shelters, neighborhood watch groups, disaster relief organizations, community health fairs.

Literary Echoes

Mike Schaefer and Ric Weiland: “Philanthropy was more than just a shared interest for Mike Schaefer and Ric Weiland, it was ’a core value that brought us together’... ‘Why wait until you’re old and senile—or dead—to give to the causes you believe in?’” Mike Schaefer and Ric Weiland were partners, with Ric being an early Microsoft employee and philanthropist.

Herb and Marion Sadler: “We are among the converted having committed to give all our net worth to philanthropy... Passing down fortunes from generation to generation can do irreparable harm... When you think about it, no other approach seems to make sense.” Herb and Marion Sadler are philanthropists known for their commitment to donating their entire net worth to charitable causes.

Bill & Melinda Gates: “Both of us were fortunate to grow up with parents who taught us some tremendously important values... We feel very lucky to have the chance to work together in giving back the resources we are stewards of.” Bill & Melinda Gates are co-founders of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, one of the world’s largest private charitable foundations.

“The more we love, the more love we have to offer.” Mary C. Neal, an American orthopedic spine surgeon and author known for her books on near-death experiences.

“Love is the doorway through which the human soul passes from selfishness to service.” Jack Hyles, leading figure in the Independent Baptist movement.

“Many hands make light work.” John Heywood,16th-century English playwright known for his epigrams and plays.

“When we strive to become better than we are, everything around us becomes better, too.” Paulo Coelho, Brazilian lyricist and novelist, best known for his book “The Alchemist.”

“Kindness in giving creates love.” Lao Tzu, ancient Chinese philosopher and writer, known as the reputed author of the Tao Te Ching.

“Remember that the happiest people are not those getting more, but those giving more.” H. Jackson Brown Jr., American author best known for his inspirational book, “Life’s Little Instruction Book.”

“Charity begins at home, but should not end there.” Thomas Fuller, English churchman and historian.

“People working together in a strong community with a shared goal and a common purpose can make the impossible possible.” Tom Vilsack, American politician who served as the United States Secretary of Agriculture.

“I don’t want to live in the kind of world where we don’t look out for each other...” Charles de Lint, Canadian fantasy author.

“Coming together is a beginning, staying together is progress, and working together is success.” Henry Ford, American industrialist and the founder of the Ford Motor Company.

“Alone, we can do so little; together, we can do so much.” Helen Keller, American author, political activist, and lecturer, and the first deaf-blind person to earn a Bachelor of Arts degree.

“None of us, including me, ever do great things. But we can all do small things, with great love, and together we can do something wonderful.” Mother Teresa, Albanian-Indian Roman Catholic nun and missionary.

Reflect and Discuss

Kind Contributions and New Perspectives:
1. Discuss a moment when engaging in humanitarian/volunteering work together brought a new understanding or perspective to your relationship.

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2. Can you recall a particularly impactful or emotional moment 
experienced during a humanitarian mission with your partner or friend?

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3. Research in evolutionary biology suggests that Altruism has survival benefits. Discuss how engaging in charitable activities together has strengthened your relationship and sense of partnership.

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Navigating Differences and Challenges:
4. Share an experience where you and your partner or friend 
had to navigate differences in opinion on a charitable cause. 
How did you reach common ground?

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5. What challenges have you faced when engaging in philanthropic activities together, and how have you overcome them?

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6. Share insights from any cultural or societal differences encountered while working on philanthropic projects together.

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Balancing Personal and Mutual Goals:
7. How do you balance personal goals and desires with the mutual goal of contributing positively to the world?

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8. Discuss the role of volunteer work in your relationship. How has volunteering together affected your bond?
 

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