Now Reading: Philosophies in Growing to Give
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Philosophies in Growing to Give
Philosophies in Growing to Give
Every contribution matters, and embracing the mindset of giving back generates a positive cycle. Charitable giving benefits not only corporate leaders’ wellbeing but also enriches personal lives. Many leaders are naturally inclined toward community service through philanthropy. Philanthropy strengthens workplaces and enhances the meaningful impact organizations achieve, fostering a culture of purpose and social responsibility.
Rtn Jerome Rajendram,
Every form of contribution is important. Empowering oneself with the thought senses of giving back to the community creates a cyclical momentum of bliss.
Charitable giving not only makes corporate leadership feel good but it would also be a key component across every part of an individual’s personal life.
Certain corporate leaders are naturally ingrained to serve the community through incorporating philanthropic efforts.
Philanthropy adds to a workplace and the true impact that the organizations gain were discussed with Immediate Past District Governor,
Rtn Jerome Rajendram,
Rotary International District 3220,
Sri Lanka and the Maldives.
Q : HOW DO YOU BELIEVE COMMUNITY SERVICE CAN TRANSFORM NOT ONLY THE LIVES OF THOSE RECEIVING HELP BUT ALSO THE INDIVIDUALS AND PROFESSIONALS INVOLVED IN THESE PROJECTS?
Service is about performing work with compassion and empathy, guided by a true understanding of the community’s needs, without seeking recognition.
It has the power to transform not only the lives of those receiving help but also the individuals and professionals involved in service projects.
It creates an environment that inspires and energizes everyone involved, where they feel valued, actively contribute, and experience personal growth through their efforts.
Witnessing the joy and happiness of people as they receive what they have long awaited is a profoundly rewarding experience for those involved in the project.
Ultimately, it is not about how much we give, but the love and care we put into our giving.
Q : WHY DO THINK IT IS IMPORTANT FOR PROFESSIONALS, ESPECIALLY THOSE IN LEADERSHIP ROLES, TO ACTIVELY PARTICIPATE IN COMMUNITY SERVICE INITIATIVES?
Leadership in community engagement is not just about fulfilling a social responsibility, it is about building a foundation for long-term success and sustainability. By actively engaging with their communities, leaders can build trust, foster collaboration, drive innovation, and create positive social impact.
1. Building Trust and Credibility:
Leaders who actively engage with their communities build trust and credibility. By showing a genuine interest in the concerns and needs of the community, leaders demonstrate their commitment to making a positive impact. This trust is crucial for the long-term success of both the organization and the community.
2. Fostering Collaboration:
Community engagement allows leaders to foster collaboration between different stakeholders, including local government, businesses, non-profits, and residents. Collaborative efforts can lead to innovative solutions to complex problems, leveraging the strengths and resources of each stakeholder.
3. Enhancing Organizational Reputation:
Organizations that are seen as actively contributing to the community’s well-being enjoy a positive reputation. This can lead to increased support from customers, investors, and other stakeholders. A strong reputation for community engagement can also attract top talent who are looking to work for socially responsible organizations.
4. Promoting Social Responsibility:
Community engagement is a key component of corporate social responsibility (CSR). Leaders who prioritize community engagement demonstrate a commitment to ethical practices and social responsibility, which can strengthen the organization’s overall CSR efforts.
5. Driving Innovation:
Engaging with the community provides leaders with valuable insights and perspectives that can drive innovation. Community members often have a unique understanding of local challenges and can offer creative solutions that might not be apparent to those outside the community.
Q : WHAT DO YOU THINK IN ROTARY INTERNATIONAL PLAYS IN SHAPING THE VALUES OF COMMUNITY SERVICE, PARTICULARLY IN THE CONTEXT OF GLOBAL CITIZENSHIP AND LOCAL IMPACT?
Rotary is a global network of more than 1.2 million neighbors, friends, leaders, and problem solvers. Together, as global citizens, we see a world where people unite and take action to create lasting change—across the globe, in our community, and in ourselves.
- We connect people with 1.2M members worldwide.
- We transform communities with approximately 47M volunteer hours each year.
- In 2023-24, nearly US$291M was awarded towards 7 focus areas through Global Grants.
Rotary members believe that we have a shared responsibility to take action on our world’s most persistent issues and work together to:
- Promote peace
- Fight disease
- Provide clean water, sanitation, and hygiene
- Save mothers and children
- Support education
- Grow local economies
- Protect the environment
We are involved in eradicating polio, a dreadful disease from the world, with only 2 countries yet to be declared polio-free. Rotary helped to build 24 new schools which were destroyed by the tsunami, and provided millions of dollars’ worth of medical help during the COVID pandemic in Sri Lanka.
Q : WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO YOUNGER PROFESSIONALS ABOUT THE IMPORTANCE OF GIVING BACK TO THE SOCIETY AND ENGAGING IN COMMUNITY SERVICE?
Giving back and assisting others is the basis of community service or volunteering.
Having a broad, open-minded perspective of the different walks of life around you will help you to be an effective and empathetic citizen.
People skills are not only skills you will gain through volunteering. Dedicating time to help others will teach you patience, kindness, and resilience.
Community service will enrich your life, familiarize you with your community, and connect you to people and ideas that will positively impact your perspective for the rest of your life.
Helping your community is an opportunity for you to grow as a person, to better understand how you fit into the world around you.
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Q : HOW DO YOU ENCOURAGE PROFESSIONALS TO ALIGN THEIR CAREER GOALS WITH BROADER SOCIETAL GOALS, PARTICULARLY IN TERMS OF VOLUNTEERISM AND COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT?
Before you start looking for volunteering opportunities, you need to have a clear idea of what you want to achieve in your career.
What are your short-term and long-term goals? What skills, knowledge, and qualifications do you need to reach them?
What are your strengths and weaknesses? What are your interests and passions?
Having a vision of your desired career path will help you narrow down your volunteering options and focus on those that match your goals.
Volunteering is not only a rewarding way to give back to your community, but also a great opportunity to develop your skills, network, and experience—and to feel the satisfaction and goodness in you.
Once you decide to dedicate yourself to volunteer in community service, join Rotary, with 120 years of dedication to building strong relationships with the community, involving them in projects at various stages with the motto, “Service Above Self.”
Q : HOW CAN PROFESSIONAL NETWORKS, LIKE THOSE WITHIN ROTARY, FOSTER A CULTURE OF COLLABORATION AND INSPIRE MORE PROFESSIONAL TO GET INVOLVED IN SELF-ORIENTED PROJECTS?
Rotary team-building activities offer a unique opportunity to foster professional relationships and networking within. They provide a platform for individuals to interact, collaborate, and connect on a personal level. These activities are designed to break down barriers, build trust, and foster a sense of camaraderie among team members.
Team-building activities can range from simple conversational ice-breakers to complex problem-solving exercises spread over a number of days. They can involve physical activities, creative tasks, or intellectual challenges. Regardless of the nature of the activity, the goal is to encourage individuals to work together, communicate effectively, and build strong relationships.
Moreover, team-building activities can also help individuals understand their own strengths, weaknesses, and working styles. They offer insights into how individuals respond to challenges, handle conflicts, and work effectively in a self-oriented manner. This understanding can lead to improved team dynamics and morale, better communication, and a more cohesive unit.
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