There is only one man in the world
and his name is All Men.
There is only one woman in the world
and her name is All Women.
There is only one child in the world
and the child's name is All Children.
-- carl sandburg, 1955

INTERNATIONAL

International charities truly express the classical definition of philanthropy as the “love of humankind”—that we are all related, as in Carl Sandburg’s phrase, the “family of man.” What constitutes a “balanced” or “diversified” portfolio in philanthropy? There is no simple rule, but we can offer guidelines. In general, philanthropy is more interesting and fun when, and to the degree that, a donor’s portfolio reflects the fullness of the donor’s personality—including knowledge, interests and values. Diversifying factors are fields, sizes and kinds of organizations, as well perhaps as of kinds of contributions—e.g., project and general operating support, capital gifts and pledges, gift amounts, and variety of giving instruments. Large numbers of small gifts is usually not very satisfying for donors. The point is that philanthropy is intensely personal expression, as well as an opportunity to stretch, to grow, to exercise one’s values and curiosity. Not to take advantage of that is one more sign of who one is.

The Catalogue has created a special section on “International” philanthropy because we believe it merits special promotion. Only 2.2% of donors’ dollars are estimated to be invested in international charities, but we are certain that this does not reflect today’s donors’ interests in international and global affairs. Everyone these days can have a foreign policy, expressed philanthropically. The world will be a better place, and Americans and America will be stronger for it.