What does it take to be a great philanthropic advisor? What does it take to be a great philanthropic advisor? By Tony Macklin Every week, the Daylight team meets with leaders of wealth management firms, banks, foundations, nonprofits, consulting firms, and more. We hear them trying to respond to four trends: The increasing number of wealth creators and inheritors who want to focus part of their financial and estate planning on philanthropy. The increasing amount of money being placed in donor-advised funds and foundations. The expanding ways people achieve social impact, going beyond charitable giving to use impact investments, advocacy, crowdfunding, and other tools. Advisors and clients alike hoping to find ways to make a difference in the complex challenges our communities and planet face. They’re often expanding and refining their roles as philanthropic advisors—people who help clients and donors navigate the why, who, what, where, and how of philanthropy and social impact. But the field of philanthropic advising is a messy mix of professional backgrounds, business models, skillsets, services, and success metrics. To help shed…well…daylight on that mess, we’re releasing a draft philanthropic advising competency model this summer. The model will describe attitudes, knowledge, and skills essential for succeeding in philanthropic advising roles. It should clarify recruitment, hiring, performance measurement, and professional development plans for employers, employees, and solo practitioners. We’ll base the model on dozens of job descriptions, interviews with a variety of employers, and competency maps from organizations such as the UHNW Institute (see graphic), Dorothy A. Johnson Center for Philanthropy, CFP Board, and SkillsFuture Singapore. Our project partner is the LaCire team who bring deep experience in developing effective and equitable human capital policies and procedures. And we’re fortunate to have the expertise and leadership of our volunteer working group and advisory board members. What does being a highly competent philanthropic advisor mean in this quickly-evolving world? Stay tuned to Daylight’s blog and social media for a publication and webinar this summer. And if you have questions about the project, don’t hesitate to contact me at tony@daylightadvisors.com . ©2025 Daylight Advisors, Inc.

The Impact Philanthropy Advisor certificate is a state-of-the-art learning program crafted with decades of experience in philanthropic advising, wealth management, and philanthropic education. ENTERPRISE IPA REGISTRATION Enterprise Organization Name* First name* Last name* Email* I acknowledge that I am able to access Daylight's learning platform and understand that the email address I provided will be used to access the platform. * Click here to check your ability to access Circle, Daylight's learning platform, from your network. You may need to adjust firewall settings or whitelist the domain. If needed, contact your organization's IT for support. Phone Multi-line address Country/Region* Address* City* Zip / Postal code* Company name Position How did you hear about IPA? Please share your friend's name so we may thank them!* I agree to abide by Daylight's Guiding Principles. I understand that once registered, I will not be granted a refund. We will consider any extenuating circumstances and may allow your fee to be applied to future cohorts within 12 months. If you have questions about whether IPA is right for you, please contact us at learn@daylightadvisors.com before enrolling. I would like to receive program and marketing communications from Daylight. You can unsubscribe from these communications at any time. Select registration option:* Impact Philanthropy Advisor (IPA) only Bundle (IPA + Annual Certificate Subscription) Select your top two IPA group preferences: (Cohort group options: January 2026 and April 2026 ) First group preference:* Second group preference:* Select checkout option:* Impact Philanthropy Advisor (IPA): For Profit Professional $2,850 Impact Philanthropy Advisor (IPA): Nonprofit & Independent Practitioner $2,500 BUNDLE: For Profit Professional $3,500 BUNDLE: Nonprofit & Independent Practitioner $3,000 Proceed to Checkout Daylight & Partner Untitled

The Certificate in Behavioral Philanthropy offers advisors a unique opportunity to deepen their understanding of how behavioral science and philanthropic advising intersect. This program integrates multidisciplinary research insights, real-world examples, and practical case studies, equipping you with the insights and tools needed to help your clients achieve their philanthropic goals. Certificates Behavioral Philanthropy Certificate The Certificate in Behavioral Philanthropy offers advisors a unique opportunity to deepen their understanding of how behavioral science and philanthropic advising intersect. This program integrates multidisciplinary research insights, real-world examples, and practical case studies, equipping you with the insights and tools needed to help your clients achieve their philanthropic goals. Through a comprehensive curriculum, you will explore the psychological factors influencing donor behavior, donor barriers, decision-making processes, and the impact of social and family dynamics on philanthropic giving. The case studies provide a hands-on opportunity to bring to life successful strategies and innovative approaches to foster donor engagement and maximizing philanthropic impact. By the end of the program, you will gain a solid grounding in behavioral principles and be able to develop actionable strategies that can be implemented to enhance client relationships. Join us to transform the way you approach philanthropic planning, leveraging behavioral insights to empower your clients and create a lasting impact in the communities they care about. Behavioral science gives advisors a powerful edge in understanding their clients' motivations and barriers. This course will help you build stronger client relationships, craft personalized giving strategies, and position yourself as a trusted expert who delivers deeper impact and more fulfilling philanthropic outcomes. —Julia Ritz Toffoli LEARNING OBJECTIVES Identify and analyze the psychological factors that influence donor behavior and the barriers they may face in their philanthropic journeys. Recognize the role of social and family dynamics in shaping philanthropic decisions, enabling you to understand diverse client motivations and engagement strategies. Apply behavioral insights through real-world case studies, allowing you to develop and implement effective strategies that foster donor engagement and maximize philanthropic impact. Plan actionable strategies tailored to individual clients’ needs, enhancing your ability to build strong relationships and drive meaningful change within the philanthropic landscape. FACULTY Julia Ritz Toffoli Julia Ritz Toffoli is an Associate Managing Director at ideas42 on the Giving Team, where she leads R&D and innovation in the philanthropic space, working with partners to design, test, and implement behaviorally informed interventions to make giving more intentional, strategic, and impactful—both for individual givers and the broader philanthropic community. Prior to joining ideas42, Julia spent nine years at the Open Society Foundations, where she helped to launch and build the Strategy Unit, delivering strategic planning guidance to grant making programs. While at OSF, Julia spearheaded the development of a training curriculum that integrated behavioral insights into strategic decision-making practice. Julia holds a Master of International Affairs in Human Rights Advocacy from Columbia University's School of International and Public Affairs and a BA in Political Science and Sociology from McGill University. Jen Shafer Jen Shafer is a Senior Behavioral Designer on the Giving Team at ideas42 where she uses insights from behavioral science to promote equity in philanthropy by effectively diagnosing challenges, conducting research, and implementing innovative designs. Prior to ideas42, Jen worked as a management consultant, data analyst, and design researcher across a variety of industries, always with a focus on user needs and employee experiences. Jen has a B.A. in Psychology from Rice University and an M.S. from MIT in Integrated Design & Management, a multi-disciplinary degree where students from design, business, and engineering backgrounds come together to tackle complex problems using human-centered design. For her thesis, she studied intergenerational conversation and legacy storytelling as a vehicle for meaning-making and connection for older adults. Sarah Welch Sarah Welch is a Managing Director at ideas42, a social enterprise that uses insights from behavioral science to invent fresh solutions to tough social problems. Over the past decade Sarah has worked to advance behavioral innovations across various challenges, from climate and consumer finance to criminal justice and health. She now leads the organization’s work in charitable giving, partnering with the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, Fidelity Charitable Catalyst Fund, National Center for Family Philanthropy, major institutions offering donor-advised funds, and dozens of other organizations in the sector. Prior to joining ideas42, Sarah completed a three-year dual degree program at Yale’s School of Management and School of Forestry & Environmental Studies, where she focused on urban resource management and planning. Sarah holds an MBA and an MEM from Yale and received her BA in Environmental Science & Public Policy from Harvard. Dien Yuen Dien Yuen is the CEO of Daylight, an innovative professional development platform that creates transformative learning experiences for advisors pursuing growth, service, and social impact. She also serves as lead faculty for philanthropy at Singapore’s Wealth Management Institute (WMI), where she was instrumental in launching Asia’s first professional philanthropic certification. She was inducted into the 2023 National Association of Charitable Gift Planners (CGP) Hall of Fame and recognized for her academic leadership with the Distinguished Faculty Award from WMI. Dien’s early career included senior roles in wealth management and global development organizations. Behavioral Philanthropy Certificate Modules Course Format Introduction to Behavioral Science Introduction to Donor Psychology Case Study: Understanding the Donor Context Behavioral Strategies for Advisors Behavioral Philanthropy in Practice Program Type: Certificate program - asynchronous course with module quizzes Program Delivery: Readings, lectures, videos, graphics, downloadable advisor resources Program Length: 5 - 8 hours Program Complexity Level: Basic Daylight is an approved CE sponsor. Continuing education credits are eligible for completion of the Behavioral Philanthropy Certificate. CFP®, CPWA®, CIMA®, RMA®:  5 hours  CAP®, CFRE, CSPGCM:  5 hours  Download Behavioral Philanthropy Certificate program description. Register for the Behavioral Philanthropy Certificate or an Annual Certificate Subscription now! INDIVIDUAL OR ANNUAL SUBSCRIPTION CHECKOUT IPA + ANNUAL SUBSCRIPTION BUNDLE CHECKOUT

Certificate programs are tailored for busy and on-the-go advisors who require flexible learning options. They're the perfect way to meet your targeted learning needs and explore technical or market segment-specific topics. Certificate Checkout To proceed with payment and complete your registration, select a certificate checkout option below. You will gain immediate access to our learning platform upon completion. Annual Certificate Subscription Individual Certificate - Behavioral Philanthropy Certificate Individual Certificate - Impact Investing Certificate Individual Certificate - Collaborative Philanthropy Certificate

Rebecca Rothey Rebecca Rothey (She/Her) Consultant, Enterprise Development rebecca@daylightadvisors.com Rebecca Rothey, CFRE, CAP®, AEP®, IPA, engages advisors and nonprofit professionals as part of our enterprise development efforts. Rebecca, is a recognized speaker and trainer in philanthropic advising and charitable gift planning. She provides essential technical insights for advisors working with clients and fundraisers, as well as for development professionals engaging with donors and their advisors. Her tenure as Director of Major and Planned Giving at the Baltimore Community Foundation (2012–2015) ignited her passion for community foundations and their role in helping donors give back. She later served as Chief Philanthropy Officer at the Greater Washington Community Foundation (2016–2022) and now continues as Senior Advisor. Her experience in Baltimore also includes leadership roles as Director of Gift Planning at The Johns Hopkins University and Medicine and Director of Planned and Principal Gifts at Catholic Charities of Baltimore. She began her career in gift planning at the American Red Cross of Central Maryland as Manager of Major and Planned Gifts. Rebecca serves on the editorial advisory board of Planned Giving Today and has held leadership roles in professional organizations, including the Baltimore Estate Planning Council and the Chesapeake Planned Giving Council, where she served as president, and the Washington, DC Estate Planning Council. LinkedIn

Philanthropic advising is evolving—and it’s time the profession had a clear, credible framework to match its growing impact. Daylight’s Philanthropic Advising Competency Model is the first-ever, field-informed framework that defines the new standard of modern philanthropic advising. Philanthropic Advising Competency Model Daylight’s Philanthropic Advising Competency Model is the first of its kind: a field-informed framework that outlines the knowledge, skills, and behaviors advisors need to serve clients and communities today. The thirteen core competencies reflect a dynamic, evolving profession that requires both technical fluency and relational skills. It provides a flexible structure for advisors, employers, and professional networks to assess and strengthen their practice. Whether you're a practitioner mapping your growth, a leader working to strengthen the field, or an employer, you can use the model to: Recruit and evaluate talent with greater clarity Guide professional development and coaching Align teams around shared expectations Build trust and transparency in advisory services By bringing definition to a once-ambiguous role, this model lays the foundation for a modern, values-driven profession—and invites you to help shape what comes next. Download Report EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Philanthropic advisors play an increasingly central role in shaping how wealth is directed toward social good. Yet despite the billions of dollars they help guide each year, there is no widely accepted standard for high-quality and effective modern philanthropic advising. The role remains undefined, and expectations vary widely across institutions, clients, and sectors. Daylight created the Philanthropic Advising Competency Model to help build a modern profession grounded in excellence, professionalism, and impact. This groundbreaking framework equips employers, advisors, and practitioners with a shared language for recruitment, hiring, performance evaluation, and professional growth. Organized around thirteen core competencies, the model defines the knowledge, skills, and behaviors required to advise clients and donors effectively. It brings definition to a previously ambiguous role, offering a clear path toward the professionalization of philanthropic advising. DAYLIGHT PHILANTHROPIC ADVISOR ASSESSMENT This assessment is designed for you to reflect on where you are today. You will find a summary of the thirteen competencies and the objectives of each competency. We’ve also included the Components of Modern Philanthropic Planning to help you define your work. Download VOICE OF THE ADVISOR Elaine Chu emphasizes the importance of seeking mentors and participating in education and certification programs for those interested in philanthropic advising.

Written by advisors for advisors, DAFopedia draws on the collective intelligence of leaders from the wealth advisory and philanthropic sectors to help you navigate the evolving landscape of DAF giving and beyond. DAFopedia, created by Daylight , is a curated, expert-driven resource delivering concise, actionable insights on donor-advised fund (DAF) giving and beyond. With DAFs expanding rapidly but educational resources lagging, we launched DAFopedia to modernize philanthropic education and equip the wealth industry with the tools it needs for today’s giving landscape. Written by advisors for advisors, DAFopedia draws on the collective intelligence of leaders from the wealth advisory and philanthropic sectors to help you navigate the evolving landscape of DAFs. Whether you are guiding clients, stewarding resources, or leading initiatives, DAFopedia is your one-stop, trusted resource for understanding what’s happening, what works, and what’s next in the world of DAF giving. DAFopedia is led by the Daylight team in partnership with the DAFopedia Working Group . We are committed to strengthening the field of philanthropic advising. Alanna Casselle Chew , IPA Philanthropy Advisor Geneva Global Mike Rea , IPA Founder ClimeOn Elaine Chu , CAP®, IPA VP, Philanthropic Strategies Private Donor Group Fidelity Charitable Jordan Richardson , AIF®, CAP®, IPA Charitable Strategist REN Steve Grourke , CAP®, IPA SVP, Leadership & Planned Giving National Park Foundation Shannon Stagner , IPA Donor Relations Officer, Austin Community Foundation Solomon Kim , IPA SVP, Financial Advisor Morgan Stanley Rebecca Stibbe , MA, CAP®, IPA Director of Family Philanthropy Myriad USA Explore DAFopedia

Every Daylight offering, from IPA to technical and segment-specific certificates, is crafted by industry professionals for industry professionals. Daylight was founded by leaders committed to advancing excellence and innovation in philanthropic advising training. Our programs are rooted in decades of real-world experiences across wealth management, philanthropic consulting, charitable planning, family dynamics, program design, and adult education. The Certified Impact Philanthropy Advisor (IPA) program features contributions from over fifteen industry practitioners, and cohorts are guided by facilitators actively working in the field. Every Daylight offering, from IPA to technical and segment-specific certificates, is crafted by industry professionals for industry professionals. Faculty Members Allison Peake Parker, CAP® Peake Impact Beth Harper Briglia CPA, CAP®, IPA Philanthropic Advisor Dien Yuen JD/LLM, CAP®, AEP®, IPA Daylight Ginni Galicinao, ACFBA, ACFWA, CAP®, CPCC, ORSC, IPA Dynamics of Family Wealth Jen Shafer ideas42 Mark Greer, MBA, CAP®, IPA Phīla Engaged Giving Randi N. Hogan, CAP®, IPA Hogan Philanthropy Consulting Rick Peck CAP®, CFP®, CFC®, IPA Rick C. Peck Consulting, LLC Seth Klukoff, IPA Eoan Strategies, LLC Tony Macklin, CAP®, IPA Daylight Andrew Ho, MBA, CAP®, IPA National Academy of Sciences Cris Lutz, CAP®, CSPG The Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens Dorothy Stuehmke MPA, CAP®, IPA Philanthropic Advisor Isis Krause Philanthropy Together Julia Ritz Toffoli, IPA ideas42 Natalie Hayden Kennedy, IPA Real Impact Advisors Rebecca Darwent, IPA Rebecca Darwent Global Rob A. MacPherson, IPA The Indianapolis Foundation Shelly Kurtz Eagle Pointe Advisors Zakiya J. Lord, CAP®, IPA Movement Voter Project Aquanetta Betts JD, AEP®, CAP®, CFRE Johnson Betts, LLC Crystal Thompkins CAP®, CSPG, IPA Daylight Erin Hulme Oceguera, IPA Philanthropy Advisor Jaimi Cortes, IPA COR Philanthropic Strategies Kristin Giant, JD Hyper Local Impact, LLC Nishita Bakshi MBA, MSAE Philanthropy Advisor Rebecca Rothey CFRE, CAP®, AEP®, IPA Enterprise Dev. Consultant, Daylight Sarah Welch ideas42 Steve Grourke CAP®, CFRE, IPA National Park Foundation

Certified IPAs October 2024 Cohort Ada Williams Prince Becky Crowe Bree Rose Christina Gorczynski David Pickler Erin Hulme Oceguera Jen Holleran Julia Toffoli Lydia Oh Michelle Caragol Padric Scott Rebecca Stibbe Seth Klukoff Steve Grourke Tim Wilmot Zakiya Lord Adam Creighton Beth A. Hubbard Brian Balduzzi Christopher Beck Dien Yuen Ginni Galicinao Joan Ai Kimberly Karol Mark Greer Mike Rea Rachel Denny Richard C. Peck Sharmila Rao Thakkar Steve Saalfeld Tony Macklin Alanna Casselle Chew Beth Harper Briglia Carí Jackson Lewis Crystal Thompkins Dorothy Stuehmke Jaimi Cortes John Unterreiner Kyle Funakoshi Mary Jovanovich Muhi Khwaja Randi Hogan Rob MacPherson Shazly Zain Sudha Nandagopal Warren Northern Alisia Robin Beverly Cox Caterina Ferrari Cynthia Yongvang Eileen Egan Jane Nordell Jonathan Herndon Leah Caragol Meg Bell Natalie Kennedy Rebecca Darwent Robin Elmerick Stephen E. Peeler Sumitra Pasupathy Wendy Soone Broder Allie Lemieux Bleu Blakslee Chris Nazareth Darley Tom Emma Beeston Janelle Cavanagh Joy Webb Lorena Patlán Michel Vekved Nhi Chau Rebecca Rothey Sarah Taylor Stephen Robinson Tiffany Polite Yolanda F. Johnson

Growing Together: Insights From the Philanthropic Advising Competency Model Growing Together: Insights From the Philanthropic Advising Competency Model By Dien Yuen Modern philanthropic advising lacked a clear definition of the advisor’s role and a shared standard for what constitutes high-quality practice. Daylight created the Philanthropic Advising Competency Model (Model) to fill that gap. The Model comprises thirteen competences, each with a corresponding list of objectives to bring clarity, consistency, and credibility to a rapidly evolving field. At the DAF Giving Summit , Alisia Robin, Elaine Chu , and I facilitated the Impact Lab session titled "Shaping the Philanthropic Advising Competency Model." We asked the packed room of advisors and nonprofit professionals to complete a self-assessment that helps them reflect on where they are today and identify the skills they may want to build as they grow in their practice. The goal was to identify perceived strengths, areas for growth, and emerging patterns to inform training priorities and organizational development strategies across the field. We gathered the results of the two activities and have distilled our observations below. We thank all the participants for their time. How Advisors Self-Rate on Competencies In our first activity, we asked participants to rate themselves on the 13 competencies on a scale of 1 to 5 (aligned with Patricia Benner’s “From Novice to Expert” model, with 1 = Novice, 2 = Advanced Beginner, 3 = Competent, 4 = Proficient, and 5 = Expert). Across the dataset, participants demonstrated confidence in core behavioral and technical competencies while indicating development needs in specialized areas such as investment acumen, gift planning, and risk management. Most Often Rated 4–5s (Strengths) 60% of participants rated themselves as 4s or 5s in Behavioral Intelligence , making it the highest-rated competency. 47% of respondents appear proficient in Family Systems and Governance , yet the same percentage rated themselves as 1s and 2s. Other top-rated competencies include: Relationship & Network Development Purpose & Legacy Identification Sector Knowledge Mostly Rated 3s (Neutral/Average) 50% of respondents scored themselves as 3s in the Cultural Dexterity competency. Other areas of moderate comfort include: Research & Data Analysis Risk & Opportunity Management Mostly Rated 1–2s (Growth Areas) More than half of the respondents rated themselves low in Education and Facilitation . Other competencies trending lower include: Philanthropic & Social Impact Vehicles Risk & Opportunity Management Gift Planning and Investment Acumen were the lowest-rated competencies overall. 47% of respondents rated as 1s - 2s in both of these areas. 87% rated themselves 3 or lower in Investment Acumen . From Great to Growth In our second activity, we asked participants to review the 9 Components of Modern Philanthropic Planning , which are mapped to the 13 competencies in the Model. These are common deliverables expected from advisors. While an advisor or firm may not offer every component or follow a fixed planning sequence, modern philanthropic advisors are expected to be conversant across all areas. Participants were asked to identify the top three services they are currently delivering well (“great”) and three they would like to develop (“growth”). 91% of participants rated Purpose Clarification as great. Legacy Planning (43% identified as great; 52% identified as growth) received split perceptions — some feel capable, others see room to grow. Assessment & Learning (29% identified as great; 59% identified as growth) is a major developmental area. The data suggests the group is strong in defining direction but less confident in executing and measuring success. Great Mixed/Transitional Growth Purpose Clarification Legacy Planning Operational Choices Strategy Definition Vehicle Choices Resource Allocation Governance Choices Social Impact Tactic Choices Assessment & Learning Program An Evolving Philanthropic Advising Field The findings from this group of advisors and nonprofit professionals suggest that those practicing philanthropic advising bring diverse training, experiences, and perspectives to their work. Participants demonstrate notable strength in relationship building, behavioral intelligence, and purpose facilitation—core competencies that underpin effective advising. At the same time, they are steadily growing into the core technical dimensions of the field. Across the two datasets, patterns point to development opportunities in specialized technical areas, such as investment acumen, gift planning, and risk management. For some, partnering with other advisors who are proficient in gift planning and investments offers a balance. By deepening the connection between relational insight and technical skill, fostering cross-disciplinary collaboration, and embedding continuous learning into professional growth, these practitioners can advance both their individual practice and the field as a whole. Ultimately, our observations affirm that philanthropic advising is maturing into a modern profession—one grounded in empathy, strengthened by expertise, and united by a shared commitment to excellence. Daylight’s Philanthropic Advising Competency Model Daylight’s Philanthropic Advising Competency Model is the first of its kind — a field-informed framework that defines the knowledge, skills, and behaviors advisors need to serve clients and communities effectively today. The thirteen core competencies capture the essence of a dynamic and evolving profession — one that demands both technical fluency and relational acumen. The Model offers a flexible structure for advisors, employers, and professional networks to assess, strengthen, and align their practice. Whether you’re a practitioner charting your growth, a leader committed to strengthening the field, or an employer shaping talent strategy, the Model can help you: Recruit and evaluate talent with greater clarity Guide professional development and coaching Align teams around shared expectations Build trust and transparency in advisory services Download the Philanthropic Advising Competency Model and begin mapping your learning journey today.

Bleu Blakslee Bleu Blakslee (She/Her) Consultant, Advisor Practice bleu@daylightadvisors.com Bleu Blakslee supports Daylight's Advisor Practice engagements. Bleu is a nationally and internationally noted expert in philanthropy with more than 35 years of experience working with high-net-worth individuals, family offices, and nonprofits. She has designed and implemented giving strategies that combine cultural relevance, complex assets, and measurable impact. Bleu held senior roles at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, a top U.S.-based medical nonprofit with global partnerships, Save the Children, a 105+ year-old humanitarian organization active in over 115 countries, and others. Her leadership has focused on cross-border giving, innovation, NextGen strategy, innovation, and high-impact giving, with thought leadership represented at events such as the World Economic Forum in Davos, the United Nations General Assembly, with attendance at various global convenings such as AVPN in Abu Dhabi. LinkedIn

Singapore Gives — But Not Always: Here’s Why Singapore Gives — But Not Always: Here’s Why By Dien Yuen Earlier this month, I completed a training on philanthropy and social impact with a group of learners from Singapore’s wealth management and nonprofit sectors. As part of the session, we explored why people in Singapore choose to give, and why they sometimes hold back. Why People Give Six key themes emerged as we discussed why people in Singapore give. Generosity here extends far beyond charity - it is an expression of purpose, identity, and legacy. 1. Altruism & Social Impact The dominant motivation centers on helping others and improving the world. People give to multiply goodness, pay it forward, help underprivileged communities, and to uplift others. The responses reflect a deep-seated belief in social responsibility and the transformative power of collective good — giving as a means to create positive change. 2. Financial & Pragmatic Factors A secondary cluster focuses on strategic or rational benefits: tax deductions and reductions, corporate branding, and funding innovation. Here, giving is seen as both smart and impactful — aligning philanthropy with business or financial stewardship. 3. Legacy & Family Values Many view giving as an act of legacy — teaching children, honoring loved ones, or to instill good values for the next generation. This cluster highlights intergenerational philanthropy, where giving becomes a way to pass on moral and social capital. 4. Personal Fulfillment & Meaning For some, giving fulfills a personal or emotional need: feeling grateful, finding purpose, or feeding the soul. 5. Religious & Spiritual Roots Faith-based reasons, such as afterlife blessings , karma , or emptying for regeneration, play a meaningful role, underscoring how religion anchors generosity in moral duty and divine reciprocity. 6. Cultural & Moral Influences Some respondents connect giving to upbringing, tradition, or cultural expectation, especially within Asian or collectivist contexts — giving as a reflection of who we are raised to be: part of Asian culture , custodian for the future , or social theories of reciprocity and gift exchange . Why People Do Not Give Learners shared a range of personal, social, and practical reasons for why people in Singapore do not give. Seven main themes emerged, showing that hesitation stems from emotional, informational, and situational barriers. 1. Trust and Credibility Gaps A recurring barrier is distrust in charitable institutions. Many learners noted uncertainty about how funds are managed or whether donations truly reach the intended beneficiaries. Comments such as “don’t trust charities” and “lack of credibility (data)” reflect deeper concerns about transparency and accountability — highlighting the need for clearer communication and tangible evidence of impact. 2. Financial Constraints Giving may also be constrained by economic realities. Respondents mentioned “not enough money (yet)” and a “scarcity mindset” , reflecting the tension between wanting to help and needing to prioritize personal financial security. Some also perceive that some contributions would be insignificant compared to wealthier donors — a belief that diminishes motivation. 3. Awareness and Knowledge Gaps Some mentioned that people don’t know where or how to give. This indicates that information accessibility and simple giving pathways could significantly increase participation. 4. Lack of Personal Connection or Relevance Some people don’t give because charitable causes feel distant or unrelatable ( “cause does not relate to me” ). When individuals don’t see a clear connection between their values and a cause, motivation wanes. 5. Structural and Convenience Barriers Practical barriers also play a role. The comment “operational hurdle to give — not easy to donate” illustrates how inefficient systems or complex donation processes can discourage action, even among those who want to give. 6. Social and Cultural Influences Giving is also shaped by social context and cultural expectations. Phrases like “my family does not appreciate” and “kiasu mentality” reflect social norms that discourage giving or prioritize self-preservation over generosity. This indicates a social permission gap, where community attitudes can either enable or inhibit giving behavior. 7. Fatigue and Negative Experiences Some respondents suggested signs of donor fatigue or emotional burnout. Prior negative experiences — such as feeling unappreciated, over-solicited, or disappointed — can lead to disengagement. The Balance of Heart and Head Together, these insights paint a portrait of giving in Singapore that is both empathetic and evaluative. People give when it aligns with their sense of purpose and trust; they hesitate when these are absent. The future of philanthropy in Singapore, therefore, lies in bridging this gap — fostering trust, transparency, and personal connection that turn good intentions into sustained generosity. Dien Yuen with WMI October 2025