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The Birthday Project: It's Your Turn!
In celebration of her 50th birthday, the late Phoebe Valentine decided to give some friends the experience of philanthropy. She wanted to share the job of making a grant, demonstrate the seriousness of the process, and spread her own wealth into new areas. Phoebe's friends researched organizations, had conversations with Phoebe to clarify her vision, and selected organizations to receive some of Phoebe's inherited wealth. This process is now known as "The Birthday Project."
In 2010 the trustees of The Valentine Foundation adapted this idea for our 25th Anniversary Project. Ten pairs of donors and mentors have spent the last year engaged in the grantmaking process.
Reasons to conduct your own Birthday Project
Can you answer Yes to the following questions?
- Do you have a desire to do more with philanthropy?
- Do you have money you are willing to donate?
- Can you commit the time and effort required?
- Do you have friends or associates who would be interested in participating in your project?
- Do you have an occasion you want to celebrate?
The Birthday Project model provides:
- Good will and a benefit to your community
- Positive energy for you and your organization
- An opportunity for you to be a mentor
- A means of broadening your charitable knowledge and reach
- A way to encourage involvement for future philanthropists
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