Philanthropy - In Order To Show We're Grateful, We Too Must Give

When it comes to life, it's all about philanthropy. There is literally nothing more important in our lives than giving. We are all so blessed with so many good things in life. How do we show our gratefulness for what we have been given? The answer is simple... Give back and help others wherever we can.

I have not always had this clear understanding. There have been many times where I have been 100% selfish. It's interesting that during those times, I was the least happy. We are most happy when we are serving and helping others. Since retiring, I have spent almost every day thinking about charity and how I can best help others in the community. I have noticed a big difference in my life and the lives of my family.

One great opportunity to be around like minded people is by attending the DRAW Inc Art Gallery exhibit next Friday, January 19th. This exhibit shows off all the features of Draw Inc. including their timeline, goals, volunteers, teachers and even the students that the organization has impacted through their community outreach programming. Learn what their "Why" is and how this group has been impacting the community.

DRAW Inc: Behind The Scenes Exhibit - Opening Event
Time: Friday, January 19, 2018, 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM MST
Address: DRAW Inc Art Gallery, 752 6th Avenue, SLC, UT 84103

DRAW Inc. serves some of the most disadvantaged and underserved areas in the state through arts education. The different groups range from low-income retirees, sufferers of dimentia, title one schools, homeless youth, people coping with tragic life events including victims of rape, loss of parents and children, etc.

Another great opportunity to serve here in the community is through Stepping Stones International. Stepping Stones is a non-profit group that is passionate about their mission: the group protects and empowers vulnerable youth and combating injustice such as child abuse and other violence. The group really prides itself on going the distance to create impact wherever possible. The approach used by Stepping Stones includes all levels of society: youth, families, communities, service providers, political leaders and governments for their advocacy. The group uses the evidence-based approach, while always trying to find creative ways to accomplish their goals. This group is a reliable organization and delivers what is promised and does it on time! All these factors and many more make the non-profit a leader in its field. Since 2005, Stepping Stones has served over 7,000+ youth.

Philanthropic ideas and article written by Ryan Van Wagenen. He is from SLC and has taken a recent focus on philanthropy given his recent retirement in early 2017. Please contact Ryan if you have any questions or would like to further discuss ideas of how to strengthen the community. Ryan is all about philanthropy and enjoys considering ways to help spread charitiable ideas throughout our city.