Philanthropy is rarely practiced in a vacuum. It’s shaped by the world around us—by the policies being debated, the headlines we read, and the challenges we witness in our communities. Currently, many donors are feeling overwhelmed. Shifts in federal policy, economic instability, and growing needs across nearly every sector have created a sense of crisis for those who care deeply about giving back.

As a philanthropy coach, I see two practical approaches to help donors move forward in this moment, both grounded in the same goal: making an intentional impact in an unpredictable world.

Approach One: Lead with Urgency

In a time when nonprofit sectors are under pressure from all sides—political, financial, and cultural—many donors are witnessing the fragility of the causes they care most about. There is anxiety, not just for personal economic well-being but also for the survival of critical organizations serving vulnerable populations. Public education, LGBTQ+ rights, public media, environmental protection, and civil legal aid are all feeling the squeeze of funding cuts, legislative rollbacks, or public pressure campaigns.

This sense of urgency is real. And it serves as a powerful catalyst for engagement. By acknowledging the challenges we face and naming what’s at stake, we create space for people to engage. We recognize the uncertainty they may be feeling and offer a path forward: refocus your efforts where they can have the most significant impact. Let intention guide your response. You don’t have to solve everything, but you can commit to something.

Approach Two: Have a Strategy

Crises will come and go. Headlines will shift. But achieving long-term social impact doesn’t happen in reaction—it happens through intention. That’s why I encourage every donor to develop a philanthropic mission statement and use a clear decision-making framework. This is not about ignoring the urgency of the moment—it’s about responding to it from a place of clarity and understanding. When you’ve already articulated your values and your focus areas, you’re less likely to be pulled in a dozen directions or to give reactively out of guilt, panic, or pressure.

This is what I call building a Philanthropy Roadmap—a strategic framework that aligns your time, talent, and resources with your deepest beliefs. It serves as a guide for giving in both calm and chaotic times.

Your roadmap provides a purposeful and strategic framework for social impact, guiding charitable giving decisions and resulting in a lasting legacy. I can help individuals, families, and senior leaders to align their philanthropic investments and community work with their voice, vision, beliefs, and values to make a lasting social impact now and into the future. Having a roadmap doesn’t make you immune to the world’s chaos, but it helps you navigate it with confidence.

You Don’t Have to Choose Just One Approach

The truth is, these two approaches aren’t mutually exclusive. We need both. A clear-eyed acknowledgment of the crisis and a strategic commitment to long-term goals. Immediate action and thoughtful alignment. Passion and purpose.

In times of uncertainty, donors don’t need more panic—they need perspective. And that’s what intentional philanthropy offers.

Whether you’re a seasoned philanthropist or someone just beginning to think more deeply about your giving, now is the time to reflect. What do you care about most? What change do you want to be part of? And what tools do you need to give with confidence, even when the world feels uncertain?

If you’re ready to adopt a more purposeful approach to your giving, I’d be honored to help you get started. Contact me today!