John has much experience working in the philanthropic world, and takes great interest in charitable goings on today.

From Lady Gaga to LEGO: Philanthropy’s Bold Push for Mental Health

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By JohnPosted In: Mental HealthTagged: , ,

Philanthropy is emerging as a crucial force in addressing global mental health challenges, stepping in where traditional funding falls short. With an estimated $200 billion gap in government and aid funding, private philanthropists are developing innovative approaches to mental health care while raising awareness and reducing stigma. Notable organizations like the Fondation d’Harcourt and The Carter Center are improving access to care in low and middle-income countries, while the Wellcome Trust has committed £200 million to transform youth mental health understanding and treatment.

High-profile initiatives, including Lady Gaga’s Born This Way Foundation and the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge’s Heads Together campaign, are working to destigmatize mental health issues and support youth programs. Organizations such as the Movember Foundation and the Brain & Behavior Research Foundation are targeting specific areas, from men’s mental health to crucial research funding. The Mariwala Health Initiative focuses on marginalized communities in India, demonstrating the global reach of philanthropic efforts.

The impact of mental health on the global economy is substantial. Anxiety and depression alone cost about $1 trillion annually in lost productivity according to the World Health Organization. To meet the need, philanthropic organizations are responding with remarkable agility, supporting innovative solutions that might not receive traditional funding. For example, Kate Spade New York and its Foundation have integrated mental health support into their women’s equality initiatives, demonstrating how mental health can be woven into existing philanthropic priorities.

Collaboration has emerged as a key strategy in philanthropic mental health efforts, with funders increasingly pooling resources and becoming fundraisers themselves. Public-private partnerships, exemplified by the LEGO Foundation’s collaboration with UNICEF and the Danish Ministry of Foreign Affairs on the Play and Heal initiative, are accelerating global mental health investment. While current philanthropic funding remains modest at $74 million – less than 1% of private development assistance for health – these pioneering efforts are creating a foundation for increased future investment and a more stable ecosystem that protects and enhances mental health for everyone, everywhere.

Major League Baseball is Making a Difference

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By JohnPosted In: Charity in SportsTagged: , , , , , , , , , , ,

Since 2010, the Allan H. Selig Award for Philanthropic Excellence has recognized the charitable initiatives of Major League Baseball (MLB) clubs. Named after former Commissioner Allan H. Selig, the award honors programs that demonstrate innovation, inclusion, and social responsibility.

For 2024, five MLB clubs have been named finalists, each representing a unique contribution to community betterment:

  • Chicago Cubs: Their Careers As Sports Executives (CASE) program provides free training and career opportunities for high school students interested in the sports industry.
  • Minnesota Twins: Partnering with Special Olympics Minnesota and Courage Kenny Rehabilitation Institute, the Twins’ adaptive youth sports programs foster inclusion and create opportunities for athletes of all abilities.
  • Washington Nationals: With a decade of community initiatives, the Nationals have focused on education, youth development, and social impact in the D.C. area.
  • Kansas City Royals: Their Shut Out the Stigma program, in collaboration with Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas City, raises awareness about mental health, particularly in youth sports, and provides resources for those in need.
  • Atlanta Braves: The Our Promise to Hank initiative promotes equity and access to baseball by increasing minority participation in under-resourced communities.

Fans played a role in the selection process through an online vote, which closed on October 18. The winner will be announced during the MLB Winter Meetings in December.

Win or lose, the 2024 finalists show that baseball is about more than just the game. Whether by creating career pathways, promoting inclusion, or investing in communities, these clubs exemplify how sports can inspire positive change and demonstrate how baseball’s impact extends beyond the field, touching communities across the nation.

Women Take The Lead in Philanthropic Giving

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By JohnPosted In: ChildFund International, WomenTagged: , ,

Women are increasingly taking the lead in financial decision-making, and new research suggests they are on the verge of controlling an unprecedented $30 trillion in US wealth over the next decade. This significant shift is transforming the landscape of philanthropy, as women are not only more likely to give than men but also tend to donate more across different income levels and generations. They are also more likely to focus their support on philanthropic efforts that benefit women and girls.

Historical Context

The evolution of women’s involvement in philanthropy mirrors their changing societal roles. Initially, women were confined to informal charitable acts and religious organizations. However, in the 19th and 20th centuries, pioneers like Clara Barton and Jane Addams were able to establish influential social service organizations. As women gained economic power, they began creating their own foundations and shaping philanthropic agendas. By the late 20th century, feminist philanthropy emerged, focusing on women’s rights and gender equity.

Contemporary Landscape

Today, women are recognized as major philanthropic leaders, with figures like Melinda French Gates and MacKenzie Scott making substantial contributions. Since 2020, Scott has donated $17 billion to over 2,300 nonprofits globally, with an emphasis on unrestricted donations to frontline leaders. French Gates has now pledged $1 billion to women’s rights groups, addressing the fact that only 2% of charitable giving typically goes to women’s causes.

Women’s philanthropy now often emphasizes collaboration, community involvement, and empathy-driven giving across various causes. This transformation reflects broader societal shifts, including increased female workforce participation and financial independence, enabling women to directly influence philanthropic landscapes more than ever before.

Women are also leading a collective giving movement through “giving circles.” These groups pool donations and democratically decide on recipients. New research shows that between 2017 and 2023, 4,000 giving circles in the U.S. contributed over $3.1 billion to social causes. Women dominate giving circle membership, with 84% of groups reporting over half female participation and 60% being entirely women-led. These circles unite diverse women around shared visions for social change, with members often more likely to volunteer, become civically engaged, and gain a deeper sense of purpose and belonging within their communities.

Impact and Future Outlook

As women’s wealth and influence grow, their collaborative, trust-based approach to philanthropy is set to transform charitable giving, creating a more inclusive and impactful future. A growing list of inspiring, women-led philanthropic initiatives now supports causes ranging from education and healthcare to social justice, environmental protection, and more. Organizations like The Global Fund for Women have wide-reaching impact, while specific causes such as Furnishing Futures — which helps women and children leaving abusive situations — or Arnold Ventures LLC — which focuses on criminal justice reform, education, and healthcare through advocacy and impact investing — offer targeted opportunities for support.

Whether through large-scale organizations or by supporting local charities and volunteering time and skills, individuals can contribute to this evolving landscape. By actively participating in and promoting women-led philanthropy, we can collectively address critical social, environmental, and health issues, while empowering women leaders in the nonprofit sector.

We honor the legacy of trailblazers like Emily Williamson and Morella Kayman by supporting the next generation of women changemakers who are shaping a more equitable and compassionate world.

Global Citizen Festival 2024: Music, Activism, and Action for a Better World

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By JohnPosted In: PovertyTagged: , , , , , , ,

The 12th annual Global Citizen Festival returned to New York City’s Central Park on Saturday, September 28, 2024, drawing a crowd of 60,000 attendees despite rainy weather. This event, held in conjunction with the UN General Assembly, aims to unite world leaders, artists, and activists in the fight against extreme poverty.

This year’s musical lineup was star-studded, featuring performances by Post Malone, Doja Cat, LISA, Jelly Roll, Rauw Alejandro, Benson Boone, and RAYE. Attendees were also treated to a surprise acoustic set by Ed Sheeran and Coldplay’s Chris Martin, who performed four of their hits together. The event was hosted by Global Citizen Ambassador Hugh Jackman, with special appearances from figures such as Bill Nye “The Science Guy” and UN Messenger of Peace Dr. Jane Goodall.

The festival focused on three key pillars: Defeating Poverty, Defending the Planet, and Demanding Equity. Leading up to the event, over 3.4 million actions were taken by Global Citizens, resulting in $1 billion commitments from organizations, world leaders, and corporations dedicated to addressing these critical issues. The festival also made significant strides in sustainability, with the stage powered entirely by a SmartGrid battery system, a notable step toward reducing the event’s carbon footprint.

Aiming to mobilize the next generation, organizers offered free entry via their mobile app in exchange for volunteer work or signing petitions, making participation more accessible to young people. A standout moment of the night was Doja Cat’s passionate speech on global injustices, urging attendees to continue using their voices for change. She stressed that everyone has the ability to bring “change, love, light, and hope to those who need it most.”

The Global Citizen Festival continues to be a powerful platform for raising awareness and driving action on critical global issues, blending the universal appeal of music with the urgency of social and environmental change.

Atlanta Dragon Con Raises $210K for Charity

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By JohnPosted In: ChildFund International

Dragon Con, Atlanta’s renowned pop culture and sci-fi convention, just concluded with 72,000 attendees gathering from across the U.S. and around the world. While the event is known for its celebration of fantasy, gaming, and pop culture, it also continuously makes a significant impact through charitable giving.

This year, Dragon Con raised over $210,000 for the Georgia chapter of the Arthritis Foundation, its official charity for 2024. The Foundation, which is marking 75 years of fighting arthritis, works to support the nearly 60 million adults and 300,000 children affected by this leading cause of disability in the U.S. Over the past decade, Dragon Con has raised more than $1.3 million for various charities through its annual fundraising efforts.

In addition to monetary donations, nearly 4,000 attendees participated in the convention’s Robert A. Heinlein “Pay It Forward” blood drive. These donations will benefit over 25 hospitals in Atlanta and 100 across the Southeast, helping to save countless lives.

As one of the city’s largest annual events, Dragon Con also boosts the local economy, contributing an estimated $80 million. Organizers have already announced next year’s dates, with the convention set to return from August 28 to September 1, 2025.

Annual Charity Motorcycle Ride Raises $25,000 to Support Michigan Veterans and First Responders

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By JohnPosted In: ChildFund International

The 8th annual Wounded America Charity Motorcycle Ride brought together 125 motorcycles and 150 participants, raising $25,000 to support Michigan veterans and first responders. The event, sponsored by Motown Harley-Davidson in Taylor and its Motown Hog Chapter #4375, along with Rotary Clubs from Dearborn Heights, Grosse Ile, Romulus, Southgate, Taylor, Trenton, and Woodhaven/Brownstown, highlighted the strength of community collaboration.

Lawrence Wright, a member of the Rotary Club of Taylor and the Hog Chapter, emphasized the importance of local support, stating, “We couldn’t do it without them… The primary money comes from rotaries, small businesses, many individuals, and riders.”

The ride began at Motown Harley-Davidson at 10 a.m. The route passed through rotary communities, where patriotic displays, including large American flags held by Romulus and Inkster fire departments and a garrison-style flag from J & M Towing in Romulus, underscored the event’s theme.

After the ride, participants gathered for a TasteFest at Motown Harley-Davidson, featuring food from local restaurants, music, and a special “Salute to Our Veterans and First Responders.”

The $25,000 raised will benefit two organizations: Downriver for Veterans, which provides emergency financial assistance to local veterans, and Foundation 14, which supports combat veterans through motorcycle-based therapy.

Teen Starts Basketball Tournament to Raise Funds for Suicide Prevention

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By JohnPosted In: ChildFund International

A 14-year-old from Long Island, New York, is making a significant impact through his nonprofit, Harold’s Hoops for Hope, which uses basketball tournaments to promote suicide prevention.

Harold Teller, an incoming sophomore at Commack High School, was inspired to create the organization after witnessing the mental health struggles of his peers during the COVID-19 pandemic.

During COVID lockdowns, Teller connected with friends through virtual basketball games like “HORSE,” which helped to bring cheer during an isolating time. His passion for basketball and his desire to help others led him to organize his first 3-on-3 tournament in March 2023, which raised funds for the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP). Approximately 150 kids participated, and Teller was thrilled to contribute to his community.

In 2024, the second annual tournament raised an impressive $13,000 for AFSP. Teller said, “It’s felt great to know that I’m making a difference and helping other people with whatever they’re struggling with.”

The third annual tournament is scheduled for March 22, 2025, with plans for an auction, food trucks, and athlete appearances. AFSP has been actively involved in Teller’s efforts, highlighting the importance of raising awareness and combating mental health stigma. Teller remains committed to expanding his initiative and continuing to support those in need.

Pennsylvania Cafe Transforms Lives by Employing People with Disabilities

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By JohnPosted In: ChildFund International

Maureen Stanko of Cedars, Pennsylvania, has created a beacon of hope for families with special-needs children. Stanko’s son, Nick, a 20-year-old on the autism spectrum, inspired the creation of the So Much To Give Inclusive Cafe, which opened its doors in January 2023. This unique cafe employs 63 people, 80% of whom have disabilities, serving in roles ranging from greeters to sous chefs.

Maureen was feeling concerned about what Nick would do once he finished school. Nick’s therapist shared with her that he dreamt of opening a restaurant that would employ people with disabilities. With the help of philanthropist Kathy Opperman, this dream quickly became a reality.

The cafe has become more than a workplace—it’s a community hub where people with disabilities can dine without stress. It’s a place where Nick learned to comfortably sit at a restaurant, and where others, like Lauren Oppelts, who is hearing impaired, thrive in roles they never imagined possible. Oppelts, who works as a hostess and teaches sign language, shared her newfound confidence, saying, “I mean, if you would ask me over a year ago, two years ago that I would be a hostess, a server, I wouldn’t believe you. Because I have grown so much self-confidence… A lot of these employees I’ve known since the very, very beginning and the growth I see in them, it’s just mind-blowing.”

Adjacent to the cafe, Stanko established the Inspiration Studio. Here, individuals with disabilities engage in music, life skills, and crafts, further enriching their lives.

Through her initiative, Stanko has not only provided meaningful employment and a supportive community but also demonstrated that everyone truly has “so much to give.” This inspiring venture reflects the power of community, dedication, and the belief that everyone has valuable contributions to make.

Morgan’s Wonderland – the World’s First Accessible Theme Park

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By JohnPosted In: ChildFund International

Morgan’s Wonderland in Texas is the world’s first ultra-accessible theme park. Unlike typical theme parks, Morgan’s Wonderland features a tranquil environment free from long lines and loud noises, and admission is free for individuals with disabilities.

Free Carnival Amusement vector and picture

The park is equipped with wheelchair-accessible rides, including a new zip line that offers stunning views over a fishing lake and the surrounding gardens. Since its inception in 2010, nearly 4 million guests from across the globe have visited Morgan’s Wonderland. The park recently underwent a $6 million renovation, adding a community center, a sports field, and Morgan’s Salon, an adaptive hair salon which provides hair and nail services in a wheelchair-friendly environment. Miranda Raab, who has cerebral palsy, shared her relief at being able to enjoy a stress-free haircut at the salon. “I’m able to just roll my chair up to this space right here that is open. And I was just able to get my haircut like everyone else… It’s way more relaxing than trying to go to a regular salon.”

Morgan’s Wonderland was founded by Gordon Hartman, of the Gordon Hartman Family Foundation. The park was inspired by Gordon’s daughter, Morgan, who was born with physical and cognitive challenges. Designed to promote inclusivity, the park not only offers a space where children like Morgan can engage freely, it also spearheads initiatives to enhance accessibility in businesses nationwide. Hartman’s vision for an ultra-accessible hotel underscores his commitment to creating environments that cater comprehensively to those with special needs.

Generosity at Providence College

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By JohnPosted In: ChildFund International

A generous group of Providence College students from Raymond Hall’s fourth floor came together to give James Mogaji, a beloved security officer, the gift of a lifetime. Several months ago, the students learned that Mogaji hadn’t visited his family in Nigeria in over a decade. They decided to start an online fundraiser to reunite him with his loved ones.

Their initial goal was modest. The students hoped to raise $3,500. However, the overwhelming support from nearly 800 donations soon exceeded their expectations, highlighting the community’s admiration for Mogaji’s kindness and compassion.

In a touching ceremony on March 6, the students presented Mogaji with the money, ensuring his journey back home could become a reality. Mogaji was overwhelmed by the gesture, expressing his shock and gratitude at the unexpected kindness.

The gesture not only underscores the strong sense of community at Providence College but also reflects the institution’s ethos of care and concern. President Father Kenneth R. Sicard, O.P. commended the students for embodying the spirit of the Friars, showcasing an exceptional example of selflessness and unity.

Mogaji plans to travel to Nigeria this summer. This story is a beautiful reminder of how small acts of generosity can make significant differences in people’s lives, strengthening community bonds and fostering an environment of mutual support and love.