Do you ever feel torn between helping others who really need it and tending to your own responsibilities and financial commitments?
You’re not alone.
Ancient Greece defined this urge as philanthropy, which literally means “what it is to be human.” UC San Diego economist James Andreoni has theorized that those who give often tend to experience a “warm glow”—sometimes described as an internal satisfaction. Some have called this physiological effect the “helper’s high.”
While researchers continue to study the origins and motive for generosity, many of us still feel that common inclination to help humanity.
Satisfying the Urge
If you are passionate about our mission, we hope these three steps will help you satisfy your urge to help others.
Step 1: Make a list to determine what you love about Gonzaga University.
- Have we changed a life you care about?
- How are we helping a cause you believe in?
Step 2: Now ask yourself: Why do you want to contribute to our mission?
We’ve found that donors are often motivated by three desires. They wish to:
- Ensure our future.
- Leave their mark on the world by being part of our efforts.
- Show gratitude.
Step 3: Contact us to discover the most realistic way you can help.
Now that you know why you love our mission and why you want to donate, you just need to find out how. If you’re worried about giving up assets today, a planned gift made from your estate plans may be the answer. Depending on the gift type, a planned gift may allow you to give without affecting your income, provide you with fixed payments for life or offer significant tax benefits. Contact us at 800-388-0881 or plannedgiving@gonzaga.edu for help matching a gift to your goals.