When most people think of philanthropy, they think of giving money to charity or building schools or homes for poor, underprivileged people in developing countries. While giving money, food, and other forms of aid may still be relevant in today’s world, the new philanthropy involves providing jobs, rather than tangible items to help people.

Jobs are more efficient in the fight against global poverty because they create self-sufficiency. People with jobs do not have to depend on others for what they need to survive day to day because they can provide it themselves. Another benefit of providing jobs is not as obvious, but it could be the most important. Giving someone a job also gives that person hope for their future. Most people do not like feeling dependent on others, and having a job so that they can care for themselves and their families without assistance gives them a sense of pride and accomplishment, and also makes them feel valuable and important.

So even though it may seem easier or more beneficial to just send money or food to communities that need it, it could actually create more good by providing a job. Not only will it create longer-lasting results, it will create hope as well.

– Katie Brockman
Source: Huffington Post
Photo: Careerealism