It’s Not Just About Money: How the Five T’s of Philanthropy Shape Meaningful Giving

By Alex Kani & Recha Bergstrom, MD

The T's of Philanthropy: Beyond Financial Contributions

When the term philanthropy is used, people often think of only one facet of philanthropy: financial contributions. While donations are undoubtedly crucial, philanthropy encompasses more than simply money. The Five T’s of philanthropy—time, talent, ties, testimony, and treasure—represent a holistic approach to giving. Each “T” offers a unique way to contribute meaningfully to causes you care about. 

Time: Your Presence and Energy

Time is one of the most precious and powerful resources available. From hands-on volunteering to supporting logistical tasks, dedicating your time to a cause not only fuels progress, it also has the potential to inspire others and sustain momentum toward meaningful change. Additionally, research shows that volunteering can activate the brain's reward center, creating joy for yourself while doing something good for others. 

Talent: Skills and Expertise

Talent signifies people with specialized skills and knowledge that organizations need. Offering your professional expertise pro bono, acting as a consultant, or mentoring are examples of contributions. For instance, if you work in marketing, you might help a nonprofit mental health program with its outreach strategy. If you're a lawyer, you could provide legal advice (and representation) for homeless people. If you know multiple languages, you might provide translation services to help recent immigrants with their resumes. Donating one's talents is fulfilling (intrinsic/self-gratification of feeling useful) and greatly appreciated (extrinsic gratification through recognition from others), as it offers a service or expertise that recipients often cannot access otherwise. An example of a program where this is already happening is called The Maven Project. It is where physicians volunteer to create a supportive environment where primary care providers can access specialty medical advice, improving patient outcomes and provider satisfaction in underserved communities.

Ties: Networking and Connections

Ties refer to connections within your personal and professional network, which are incredibly powerful philanthropy tools. Connections can take many different forms. For example, making key introductions helps connect organizations with supporters and collaborators, which can amplify their reach and influence. Bringing individuals together can also help young graduates find mentors as they embark on a new career. While it is possible to offer connections at any age, like with “Talent,” often those with more life experience will have more diverse and far-reaching ties. As we authentically cultivate and cherish our relationships at every stage of life, we will find we have developed a foundational component of philanthropy to which we can turn. 

Testimony: Truth-Telling and Advocacy

Using your voice to advocate and raise awareness for different causes is a critical component of philanthropy. Examples of this are sharing personal stories, highlighting the experiences of others with less of a voice, and advocating for policy changes that can foster a deeper understanding of the challenges at hand. Malala Yousafzai exemplifies this. In Pakistan, where there are strict restrictions on women's education, she bravely advocated for her cause, even getting shot for using her voice. Still, she garnered support from over 2 million people who signed her petition. Her efforts led to Pakistan enacting its first Right to Free and Compulsory Education Bill. In her Noble Prize speech, she states, “We believe in the power and strength of our words. Our words can change the whole world because we are all together, united for the cause of education.” Ultimately, Malala is just one example of how your voice–your testimony–has the ability to inspire empathy, mobilize support, and drive systemic change.

Treasure: Financial Contributions

Last but certainly not least, financial donations remain essential. Financial contributions allow organizations to scale their impact. Unrestricted donations make the most significant impact, allowing organizations to allocate funds where they are most needed. A famous example of this is Taylor Swift. She has donated to the Country Music Hall of Fame, the Middle Tennessee Emergency Relief Fund, her old high school, and New York Public Schools, among others, making a huge difference in those communities. In her old High school, specifically Hendersonville High School, she donated $50,000 to create a new auditorium. While the other 4 “T’s” are critical, this remains the cornerstone of all philanthropic efforts.

Why Embrace the “T's”?

The T’s of philanthropy represents a holistic approach to donating that goes beyond the scope of the financial. Under this framework, everyone – not just people of wealth – can be involved with philanthropy and benefit from sending and receiving the rewards of giving to others. You can create a more profound and sustainable impact within communities by leveraging the T's. Social change requires collaborative efforts and different types of contributions. Each “T’s” offers a unique avenue to contribute meaningfully to causes you care about.

How Can You Incorporate the “T's” into Your Philanthropy?

1. Reflect: What are your strengths/assets? What skills do you have? What networks can you use? 
2. Research: Find organizations that are aligned with your values and goals.
3. Commitment: Commit time carefully and regularly with your organization of choice. 
4. Amplify: Spread the word! Encourage others to learn about the 5 T’s of philanthropy. 

By utilizing the 5 T’s of philanthropy—time, talent, treasure, ties, and testimony—you can make a multifaceted impact, effectively supporting causes and driving change. Remember, philanthropy is about what you give and how you give. Embrace the T's and watch as your contributions improve lives and communities.