PAY IT FORWARD...

According to Google, at least a million people must have invented kindness.

Well, give or take. If a preliminary search about the origins of the “Pay It Forward’ philosophy are any example, given a few hours digging, we would break at least six digits with different originators cited.

For most of us, the phrase, and the idea, first appeared with the 2000 Helen Hunt movie, or the novel of the same title on which the film was based. But dig (or google) just a bit further, and you’ll find acclaimed science-fiction writer Robert Heinlein employing ‘Pay It Forward’ in 1951’s Between Planets. His humanitarian society, named after him, emphasized the concept of performing charitable acts in hopes that others would ‘re-invest’ by doing the same in the near-future. Heinlein may have indulged in a bit of time-travel, though, because…there was a novel from 1916, called Garden of Delight. Author Lily Hardy Hammond offers this insight: ‘ You don’t pay love back; you pay it forward.’

Apparently, this impulse isn’t just a 20th-century fad, or even some antidote to the Industrial Revolution. Yet another digital search confidently reports that the Pay It Forward concept can be found in an acclaimed play first performed…in 317 BC. In Athens, no less. The title was ‘Dyskolos’, which in English, becomes ‘The Grouch’. Incredibly, this idea of performing an act of kindness, with the only repayment required being a promise of a subsequent act of generosity…has been reinvented in different cultures, on different continents, and in different millenia. From Ralph Waldo Emerson, to Benjamin Franklin, all the way up to college football coach Woody Hayes have at one point echoed roughly the same sentiment. So, how did the seeds of this one concept travel so far, and last so long?

A likely answer is that ‘Pay It Forward’ didn’t travel or get transmitted…because it didn’t have to. The impulse of charity seems to be a built-in part of all of us, in different degrees. Caring and empathy are hard-wired. Perhaps on one level, it’s because we have evolved to a level of understanding that we all are in this together…and it’s in our best interest as a community to ‘Pay It Forward’, and keep the kindness going.

The author of the 1999 novel honestly seemed to believe that. After ‘Pay It Forward’ succeeded as a novel and movie, Catherine Ryan Hyde established a foundation named after her creation, designed to encourage various acts of charity and caring throughout the world. Since 2007, Pay It Forward Day has been celebrated each April 28th.

There are more academic, ‘drier’ ways to elaborate on the philosophy. Scholars have dubbed it the ‘gift economy’, with some theoretical papers suggesting that the spread of philanthropic acts through the Pay It Forward game-plan could result in roughly three good things being done as a result of each single gesture of initial kindness. Spreadsheets and graphs can say it in one way. Margaret Mead seemed much more succinct, and relatable when she suggested ‘Never underestimate the power of a small group to change the world. In fact, it is the only way it ever has…’

For the same, beautifully simple idea to keep occurring, and reoccurring in different times and civilizations, indicates that, deep down, we all know that caring is crucial…and benefits us all, individually and collectively. Let us help you make the best and most effective difference. Call Link Charity Canada today.

< Older Post Newer Post >

Unveiling the Benefits of Being a Link Charity Canada Member

By Rob Ennema • 03 May, 2024

If you're considering becoming a part of Link Charity Canada , you're in for an array of exclusive advantages that can elevate your philanthropic journey. Let's delve into the wealth of benefits awaiting you as a distinguished member: 1. Expert Guidance and Support Access dedicated expert advice on planned giving and estate planning for you, your donors, and your staff. Benefit from low to no-cost marketing tools to effortlessly promote planned giving within your organization. 2. Empowerment Through Participation Secure a voice in decisions and plans for Link Charity through a representative vote at the Annual General Meeting (AGM), with potential Board membership opportunities. 3. Financial Returns Enjoy higher than average returns on investments for your donors, ensuring a rewarding giving experience. 4. Reimbursement Plan Explore the referral reimbursement plan that could potentially cover your entire annual dues, making your membership even more financially appealing. 5. Comprehensive Services Benefit from a spectrum of services including quality marketing resources to simplify gift planning promotion. Attend enlightening seminars and workshops for donors focusing on gift planning and estate needs. Engage in face-to-face meetings offering personalized and confidential answers to gift planning concerns. Train select staff and volunteers in essential areas of gift planning, enhancing organizational expertise. Experience expanded networking opportunities through coordinated events and promotions of gift planning initiatives. 6. Innovative Donation Solutions Easily donate stocks and mutual funds through Link Charity, saving significantly on brokerage fees. Opt for Gift Annuities to support multiple charities under one annuity, streamlining your giving process. Leverage Link Charity's estate planning expertise to potentially save on fees and taxes. 7. Tailored Giving Enjoy the freedom to be anonymous and selective in your causes under Link Charity's guidance. Establish a Family Foundation through the Donor Advised Funds program without the complexities of creating your own. Save substantial amounts on taxes by strategizing your estate gift plan with Link Charity's consultants. 8. Confidentiality Assurance Rest assured that all interactions and work done with Link Charity are handled with the utmost confidentiality, prioritizing your privacy and trust. By embarking on this membership journey with Link Charity Canada, you not only gain access to a treasure trove of benefits but also contribute meaningfully to impactful charitable endeavors. Join hands with Link Charity today and unlock a world of giving possibilities! For more information and to explore membership opportunities, contact us today!

Food For Thought

By Erin M • 20 Jun, 2023

Since 1998, Link Charity Canada has provided the service, tools, education, and guidance that individuals and charities need when it comes to gift giving. We work with many great charities that are in the business of not only helping Canadians, but people all over the world. Check out Link Charity’s members list to learn more.