Celebrating Quaker Philanthropy

Workshop # 51
Michael Wajda, Susan Hopkins and Alison Levie

We'll consider philanthropy based upon Quaker testimonies and practice. Content will include history of Quaker philanthropy, financial matters related to giving, and discussion with a thoughtful panel of Friends who give. Philanthropy as a spiritual practice will be explored through journaling and experiential activities. Friends of all incomes warmly welcomed.

Percentage of time:
Worship/worship-sharing 25; Lecture 20; Discussion 30; Experiential 25

Adults only

Our workshop will explore some of the history and current practices of Quaker philanthropy.  

We want Friends to be able to:

• Look at the broad meaning of philanthropy, i.e., the effort/inclination to increase the well-being of humankind.

• Explore how leadings and Quaker testimonies affect one’s giving.

• Feel relaxed when talking about money.  We will seek to provide a safe and trusting environment in which to discuss financial matters for Friends at all levels of income.

• Look at the roles of vision and discernment in making philanthropic decisions.

• Be able to go that Deeper Place when considering financial matters.

• Explore holistic stewardship—right uses of one’s time, talent, relationships, health, and money.

Some of the specific activities that we are planning include:

• Providing short biographical sketches of several historic Quaker philanthropists.  What were the grounding and fruits of their philanthropic labor?  

• Drawing and sharing our “stewardship journeys.”

• Interacting with a group of current Quaker philanthropists who have different levels of income and giving.  We plan to have a diverse panel of 3-5 active Quaker philanthropists with us for one full morning.

• Worship and worship-sharing around various issues related to money, inheritance, personal income, stewardship, discernment, and the spirituality of philanthropy.