The definition of philanthropy has changed in the 21st Century. In the past it implied charitable donation. Now it seems to mean energetic (as well as financial) support of concepts and structures that endorse growth in a community. The new philanthropist discovers ways to provide what is needed rather than simply tossing money at a problem.

We are firmly committed to the New Philanthropy. We hope that we can help pioneer some innovative ways to unite our human family in collaborative endeavors that result in benefit for all. As we find genuine need and opportunities where we can make a positive difference in people’s lives, we will use our resources philanthropically to perpetuate generosity in every part of our beloved planet.

Here’s one of our favorite true stories.

Once a “famous” corn farmer in Ohio won the state fair blue ribbon for seven consecutive years for having the tastiest, healthiest crop in the Corn Belt.

Every year after the fair, he packaged up sacks of corn seeds from his award-winning crop and delivered them to his neighbors.

One of the judges heard about his habit and asked him, “Aren’t you afraid one of your neighbors will take the blue ribbon next year? Why would you give away your carefully developed seeds?”

The farmer replied, “The birds and the bees don’t know about fences. They cross-pollinate from other fields into mine, and vice versa. The healthier my neighbor’s crop, the healthier mine. In my corner of the world, an unhealthy corn crop breeds an unhealthy community.”

This story extends and applies to everyone’s corner of the world, doesn’t it? Those of us who are more fortunate simply must extend our blessings to our neighbors, not only because it’s the right thing to do, but because it perpetuates a healthy and prosperous life for us all.

Why feed the poor? Because hunger breeds poverty, disease and crime in our corner of the world.

Why rebuild New Orleans? Because disaster, displacement, and disenfranchisement breed bitterness and hatred in our corner of the world.

Why run our businesses ethically? Because imbalance of opportunity and money breeds deep dissatisfaction and depression in our corner of the world.

This concept doesn’t stop with humanity. We must also show generosity to our Earth. We receive without limitation from the resources of nature, until we use those resources up. At that point, nature shrivels, weather changes, atmospheric adjustments occur, and species die.

Generosity breeds plenty. Greed breeds need. Our responsibility to humanity, nature and the cosmos is simple: We must live as though we are all one family, mutually dependent and mutually supportive, because we are.

Generosity Incorporated will scan the globe for companies that operate ethically, participate in fair trade, and feed the souls of their customers. We hope to partner with those companies to create a global network of ethical behavior in business. We will soon be asking you, our clients and customers, to participate in this search. Keep us in mind as you hear about global good news.

To learn more about our spiritual work visit www.turtledreamers.com.

Connie Kaplan
CEO