Philanthropy, by definition, is an inherent good deed concerned with the welfare of others, particularly through generous donations.

However, the reputation of philanthropic giving is often tarnished by people’s negative perception of well-meaning benefactors raining-down funds on a distant cause. It is this disconnected concept of charity and the risk that I too might be falling into it, that prompted me to reassess my own approach to giving about ten years ago.

Throughout my life, I’ve given to those who didn’t have much. As a child growing up in Sri Lanka, I remember passing beggars on the street. My father would put his hand in his pocket, pull out all the coins he had and give them to me, to give to the beggar. Perhaps that started my attitude to giving. As a single mother in my twenties, working and studying, I had little to give. But, whether it was $5 in cash or making or buying a meal for someone, I gave all that I could.

Today, I am very proud of my successful career in enterprise asset management. My company helps governments and some of Australia’s largest firms to manage infrastructure assets such as tunnels, roads, theme parks and airports. I love what I do and it is this success that has enabled me to give and do more for others.
However, about 10 years ago I began to reflect on the notion of giving. I realised I was doing what most people do. I’d write a cheque and hope someone spent it wisely. I could see that I needed to do more, so I took responsibility to give with purpose. I reviewed our giving program so that it aligned with my own values.

Taking responsibility meant knowing what I was supporting and having a personal connection with the outcomes. Literally, this meant, at times, going to places and projects in different parts of the world to see what I was supporting first-hand.

Now I have been lucky to meet hundreds of people who love working with those in need. They toil daily under uncertain and challenging conditions to help the vulnerable, poor and disadvantaged. Their work is a gift and a blessing and I see it as my responsibility to help and enable them to do what they do.

Supporting charities in this way allows me to decide where I want my money spent and I can request to see results. Giving with purpose also led me to set up the ANT Foundation which supports numerous great causes in Australia and around the world.

Recently, my company Tolerro, was nominated by Queensland University of Technology for the 2017 Queensland Community Foundation Philanthropist of the Year Awards. To be a nominee was a great honour and, although we didn’t win, the recognition was incredibly humbling.
These awards were another example of how purposeful giving is not about ourselves but rather about those who we help. I believe in celebrating together the good that we do in the world and I salute all those who give with a purpose in mind.

Anomi

p.s Philanthropy and one’s legacy in giving can last beyond our time on earth. A contribution from our estate via our will can help immensely. A small percentage in a will can be the difference maker in many people’s lives. I encourage everyone to consider leaving a donation in your will.