Forward July 2021 | Page 51

PHILANTHROPY

While the word ‘ fundraising ’ can sometimes strike fear or even induce palpitations in some , the word ‘ philanthropy ‘ often causes misunderstanding and confusion . Having worked in this field for over 25 years , I have noticed a growing preference for the word philanthropy .

Philanthropy evokes feelings of helping people and supporting the greater good , whereas the word ‘ fundraising ’ seems to engender an attitude of being in sales and a little more like getting the deal done .

In the 21st century , a broader view makes more sense . We want to make the largest impact , create true social change and solve huge problems . Does that mean that we should abandon the idea of fundraising as what we do and call it ‘ philanthropy ’ in order to make asking feel more personal and engaging ?

The reality is – people give to people . We want to deeply engage active supporters who will take action and support us . And ultimately , that is about creating relationships and not transactions . It is about nurturing relationships and providing good stewardship – and it is all about our School .

The reality is – people give to people .

We want to deeply engage active supporters who will take action and support us .

Fundraising is one of the methodologies used to engage donors in the act of philanthropy . And of course , I think we can all agree that philanthropy is a warmer word , but for every fundraising action there is an equal , and optimistically , a greater philanthropic reaction . Given that reality , it ’ s okay to embrace the ‘ f ’ word .

As a fundraiser , it has been wonderful to witness our community ’ s response to our recent activities . Since January we have conducted an emergency Fire Appeal , launched the Naming Opportunities Appeal and held the Long Table Dinner Under the

Ms Ilene Aveling

Stars - which had a significant fundraising element by way of auctions and raffles . The results were magnificent !

A very sincere thank you to all our philanthropists – you are the yin to our yang – or is that the yang to our yin ?

Ms Ilene Aveling Development Manager

The Music Department at Guildford Grammar School is now the proud owner of a beautiful Syrian oud , made by Ali Khalifeh & Sons of Damascus . The oud was generously gifted to the School by Stewart Bogle ( Sc 66-68 ) and joins the harpsichord which Stewart and his family gifted last year .

In the Arab origin , the oud is considered to be ‘ the king of instruments ’. It is assumed that the name al-oud is derived from the Arabic for ‘ the wood ’ and came to Europe through North Africa . It is central to the Middle Eastern music tradition .

Some believe it to be the ancestor of the Pharaohnic Egyptian Nefer , while others say that this instrument is the forebear of the ancient Persian barbat . The oud is also known as the precursor of the European lute .

Director of Music , Mr Kieran Hurley said on receiving the oud , “ The oud is an important instrument in the development of stringed instruments , and the repertoire for it is both diverse and challenging . As well as being a living part of history , the oud resides with the ‘ new ’ breed of instruments , donated to the School , that give GGS Music students the chance to experience music from other times and other cultures . We cannot thank Mr Bogle enough for his most generous gifts , and for the opportunities that these afford the students of the School of Music .”

Stewart Bogle with the oud .

Please call our Development Manager , Ilene Aveling on ( 08 ) 9377 8554 if you would like to talk about donating or leaving a Gift in Will to Guildford Grammar School .

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