The genius of the tradition as it has developed in America is the unique combination of giving and voluntary service in behalf of independent organizations and institutions devoted to the public interest.

Do we live for or do we live off philanthropy?

We should never lose sight of the very close link between individual giving and the formation of philanthropic traditions.

The philanthropic tradition is older than democracy, older than Christianity, and older than higher education. It gives form and purpose to personal and social life that cannot be provided by the self-interest of economic enterprise or required by the mandate of political institutions.

We cannot preserve philanthropic and charitable values if we detach them completely from our fundamental personal beliefs and convictions.

Philanthropy requires thought, action, and passion.