Nancy Brinker United States Ambassador
America’s Enduring Generosity A
s we enter another holiday season, Americans across the country are preparing to celebrate one
of our nation’s greatest traditions: the spirit of giving. Long before the term “philanthropy” became part of our national vocabulary, generosity was already woven into the American story. From the earliest settlers who
came together to care for one another, to modern citizens supporting local charities and national causes, giving has always reflected our shared belief in community, compassion, and opportunity. Having spent my life in the
nonprofit world, from founding Susan G. Komen, the world’s largest grassroots network of breast cancer survivors and activists, to leading The Promise Fund, which works to expand access to lifesaving healthcare for women, I have witnessed firsthand the remarkable ways that Americans give of themselves. Our country’s philanthropic spirit
is not only alive and well; it remains one of the most powerful forces for good in the world. Philanthropy is as old as America itself. The founders of our nation understood that a free society depends not only on individual liberty, but on civic responsibility. Early Americans built schools,
hospitals, and churches through voluntary giving, not government decree. In the 19th and early 20th centuries, titans of industry like Andrew Carnegie and John D. Rockefeller formalized this tradition, creating foundations that continue to touch millions of lives today. But what has always made
American giving unique is that it doesn’t belong solely to the wealthy or
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the powerful. It belongs to everyone. From local church collections and community drives to online fundraisers and volunteer initiatives, philanthropy is a democratic act, one that unites us in common purpose. Even amid today’s challenges,
the American instinct to help others remains strong. Whether responding to natural disasters, funding medical research, or supporting veterans and first responders, Americans consistently give more per capita than any other people on Earth. That’s not just a statistic — it’s
a testament to our values. The challenges facing our country can feel overwhelming. But they also represent opportunities to act. Every generation has its challenges, and every generation has found ways to meet them through generosity, innovation, and compassion. This time of year
Offer Your Time: Money isn’t the
only resource that matters. Volunteers are the lifeblood of every successful mission. Your skills and experience can make an immediate difference. Use Technology Wisely: Online platforms have made it easier than ever to give, raise awareness, and connect with causes that matter. A simple post can inspire others to join you. Think Long Term: Sustained giving
— monthly donations, recurring volunteer service, or legacy gifts — ensures that worthy causes can plan for the future and grow their impact. Having spent decades working
naturally brings reflection and gratitude. But the season of giving should not be confined to the holidays. True philanthropy is a way of life, an enduring commitment to make a difference year-round. It’s about seeing needs not as burdens, but as invitations to serve. Here are a few ways to make your generosity count: Give With Intention: Support organizations that align with your values and have a proven record of results. Do your homework. Transparent and accountable nonprofits turn your contributions into measurable impact. Join Forces: Collaborate with others who share your passion. Whether through family giving, faith- based groups, or community drives, collective efforts amplify results.
This time of year naturally brings reflection and gratitude.
in philanthropy, I can say with certainty that America’s greatest strength is not just our innovation or independence — it’s our compassion. We are a nation of givers. We see need, and we act. That impulse has built hospitals, funded research, educated generations, and
strengthened communities across our great country. As you gather with loved ones this December, I encourage you to think about how you can continue that legacy. Find a cause that stirs your heart. Make a plan to give back in the year ahead.
Philanthropy is about carrying
forward the timeless American ideal that we are all responsible for one another. May this season of giving remind
us of that truth, and inspire each of us to leave our country and our communities stronger than we found them.
Nancy Brinker, founder of The Promise Fund of Florida and Susan G. Komen, served as U.S. ambassador to Hungary.
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