Charge Session 10: Meaningful Giving Assessment

Not all giving is equal. There are some types of contribution at work and in philanthropy that make us feel more energized and fulfilled. Choosing the right giving activity—what you give to and how you contribute to something—is just as important as which cause you give to. When we become more strategic in the contributions we make at home or work (or as part of our philanthropic giving), we start to think of questions like, “Where can I make a unique contribution, and how can I do it in a way that keeps me engaged, fulfilled, and most likely to
continue serving and making an impact?”

It turns out that our assessment of any giving activity across six categories basically dictates whether or not we are happy with our contributions. They also dictate whether or not we’ll continue giving over the long-term.

Think of a major cause, project or effort that you are engaged in or want to give to. Then rate the project below. Just read the category descriptions below rate themselves 1-10 on the categories below, with 1 being “not at all” and 10 being “completely.” The goal of this short assessment is to help you identify areas that may limit your fulfillment from your contributions. As with any assessment, the goal isn’t a complete or perfect snapshot and rating of every nuance of an activity, but rather a good opportunity for overall self-reflection. So, don’t stress about the exact wording of these descriptions. Instead, just give your overall impression of how you rate in each category. After rating each category, consider if you could improve the lowest performing categories and if the cause is even worth giving to. Also, use these categories to change your behaviors or to persuade others to join causes you believe in!

Mission Alignment and Conviction: I feel deeply and personally connected to the idea behind this cause or project. It aligns with my personal values and experiences that have meant a lot to me. I believe this mission and my personal involvement can make amajor difference.

Activity that Leverages Strengths: The way I would be involved in this cause or project leverages my strengths. I would be involved in a real and meaningful way in which I could make true contributions that matter. I wouldn’t be doing tasks or activities that are miserable or bring no joy.

Projects that Get Completed: The projects that I’ll be involved with will have a real chance at seeing the light of day—there is a high chance of success to make a difference. I’ll be able to see the final effect of my direct activities.

Mentoring: There is a mentoring component to my involvement in this cause or project. I’ll have the opportunity to connect with a real person and to give them some advice on improving their life or skillsets. There is a human element to this project that would allow me to be a role model to a person or group.

Direct, First Hand Social Experience: I’ll be able to see my efforts actually make a difference in people’s lives and I’ll be able to interact with those benefiting from this cause or project. I’ll actually see people changed. I’ll see lives improve in real life – not through just pictures or emails or entries on the web — I’ll personally experience other’s benefit.

Appreciation & Recognition: My efforts will be appreciated by people who are important to the success of the cause or project. People are likely to say Thank You and realize how much I give. I’ll feel good about my efforts being recognized.

Lasting Change: I believe this cause or project will last beyond me and continue making a difference in people’s lives. This isn’t just a short-term gift or activity. The purpose of this mission will survive me and my contributions so that over time many people will benefit even if they didn’t know me or my involvement. Lasting impact is possible.

Email*

example@example.com

Source: This tool is based on proprietary concepts from High Performance Institute's Certified High Performance Coach ProgramTM. Do not duplicate or distribute without permission.