Philanthropy, charity, giving voluntarily and freely... call it what you like, but it is truly a jewel of an American tradition.
Interpretation
Philanthropy is a cherished American tradition where people freely give to help others.
In this quote, John F. Kennedy emphasizes the importance of philanthropy in American culture, highlighting how acts of charity and voluntary giving are not just commendable actions but integral to the nation's identity. He portrays these acts as valuable treasures that embody the spirit of community and generosity, encouraging individuals to engage in selfless contributions to enhance the well-being of society.
In practice
This quote can be shared during a fundraising event to inspire people to donate.
The great battleground for the defense and expansion of freedom today is the whole southern half of the globe... the lands of the rising peoples. Their revolution is the greatest in human history. They seek an end to injustice, tyranny and exploitation. More than an end, they seek a beginning.
I had always enjoyed the title of Commander-in-Chief until I was informed ... that the only forces that cannot be transferred from Washington without my express permission are the members of the Marine Corps Band. Those are the only forces I have. I want it announced that we propose to hold the White House against all odds at least for some time to come.
I am talking about genuine peace, the kind of peace that makes life on earth worth living, the kind that enables men and nations to grow and to hope and to build a better life for their children - not merely peace for Americans but peace for all men and women - not merely peace in our time but peace for all time.
I just received the following wire from my generous Daddy; Dear Jack, Don't buy a single vote more than is necessary. I'll be damned if I'm going to pay for a landslide.
Tolerance implies no lack of commitment to one's own beliefs. Rather it condemns the oppression or persecution of others.
Mankind must put an end to war before war puts an end to mankind.
Although I don't have a prescription for what others should do, I know I have been very fortunate and feel a responsibility to give back to society in a very significant way.
The most helpful piece of advice that I could give to anybody is to select a charity, or create a charity, that you really feel passionate about and if you do, don't give up.
I'm going to give away a lot more than half my money. I'd be happy to give that to the government if the government put together programs that were like I'm giving away to charity, in which I believe the money is effectively used to help people.
Philanthropy is not about the money. It's about using whatever resources you have at your fingertips and applying them to improving the world.
My mom was on the United Way group that decides how to allocate the money and looks at all the different charities and makes the very hard decisions about where that pool of funds is going to go.
Effective philanthropy requires a lot of time and creativity - the same kind of focus and skills that building a business requires.
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