One of the more important, but often overlooked days on the American calendar is National Philanthropy Day, November 15th. As then President Ronald Reagan wrote when he first proclaimed it:
“The literal meaning of “philanthropy” is ‘affection for mankind.’ Throughout our history, we Americans have displayed this trait through our generous charitable giving and our spirit of neighbor helping neighbor. We help each other, and we reach out to help people all over the world…It is one of our greatest strengths as a people…We can be grateful…for our American spirit of giving from the heart. And one of the best ways to express our gratitude, of course, is to follow the good and great example of those who see needs and meet them with ‘affection for mankind.’ …I call on the American people and organizations of every kind to observe this day…”
Throughout our nation’s history, U.S. presidents like Ronald Reagan have understood the importance and impact of giving upon our society and the greater global citizenry. Abraham Lincoln understood this and while there are many instances of his charitable acts, such as joining Mary to nurse the injured and ill soldiers in and around Washington, D.C. at the height of the Civil War, there is also evidence that earlier in his life, during Ireland’s great potato famine in the mid-1800s, he contributed 5 pounds, (about $300-$500 in today’s currency), to assist in alleviating the suffering of the Irish. It seems that in addition to being a husband, father, President, shopkeeper, soldier, lawyer, flatboat captain and legislator among other things, Lincoln was also a philanthropist.
As the President told a crowd assembled in Cincinnati, Ohio on his birthday in 1861: “I hold that while man exists, it is his duty to improve not only his own condition, but to assist in ameliorating mankind; and therefore…I am for those means which will give the greatest good to the greatest number.”
Just around the corner, National Philanthropy Day offers you the very real opportunity to answer the call and match the actions of past presidents by making a charitable contribution to the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library Foundation to benefit the 16th President’s Presidential Library and Museum. Field trips, educational programs, capital projects--all aspects of every day operations are advanced when generous people like you, make-a-donation to the annual fund. NOW is YOUR opportunity.
Please don’t delay. Take this moment to give generously to advance the work we do to protect and share the great American story that is, ABRAHAM LINCOLN. Your tax-deductible charitable contribution will have immeasurable impact and is most appreciated, not just as we approach National Philanthropy Day, but also as we enter this joyous season of giving. Thank you for giving generously and for all you do to advance Mr. Lincoln’s legacy for Ourselves and Our posterity.
Carla Knorowski, Ph.D.
Chief Executive Officer