Philanthropy is everyone’s responsibility

THE catchword ‘philanthropy’ is more often than not associated with affluent, prominent members of society and driven largely by the business fraternity.

The problem with such a perception is that it suggests that only a certain sector of the community is able to meaningfully engage with society and utilise their resources for the betterment of impoverished communities.

This notion goes against the true meaning of charity. The message behind Nelson Mandela Day on Saturday, 18 July is simple – each individual has the ability and responsibility to change their community for the better.

So the power to help one another does not depend on one’s financial status. While hectic lifestyles of the working class do not allow many people the time to spearhead significant philanthropic efforts, there is no stipulation that the charitable deed must be one of magnitude.

If each one of us heeded the call to simply do good every day with a little act of kindness, we would be living Nelson Mandela’s legacy and helping to build a country of our dreams.

So, if you have not invested in your community recently, start with a small deed. Take 67 minutes of your time to head to the Zululand Observer charity line in Empangeni and Richards Bay on Saturday, 18 July.

As Madiba aptly pointed out, ‘What counts in life is not the mere fact that we have lived. It is what difference we have made to the lives of others that will determine the significance of the life we lead.’