Culture of Giving
We are not the only ones who think that forming non-profits is a local cottage industry in Sonoma. At a recent luncheon at the Lodge, hosted by the local Rotary Club, attendees heard Kim Klein, on the faculty at Hastings College of the Law at UC Berkeley, make a similar observation about Sonoma, which has apparently become something of a cliche among her colleagues.
At the well-attended event arranged by Tim Boeve, Executive Director of the Sonoma Valley Education Foundation, Klein laid out some interesting statistics. Most intriguing was that 70 of 100 American adults give to a charitable organization. This is more of us than vote (55 in 100), and more even than attend worship service (57 in 100). Self-image is so important, and one searches, in our distinctly mixed society, for a truly American attribute – perhaps this is it.
Klein also said that fundraising has gotten more difficult: where once we donated to traditional charities, we are being asked increasingly to donate for services previously rendered without charge. California schools have, after the principal funding source was transferred to Sacramento, felt the sting of state budget cuts, and parents especially have been called upon to donate to their children’s public education. Klein remarked on being asked recently to donate to her city’s department of public health, so it could continue its educational and outreach programs. And she told of an astonishing event at an Army base, where money was being raised from the local community to buy body armor for soldiers shipping out to Iraq. When people give to address such needs, Klein noted, it limits what they can donate to other causes.
The generosity of American citizens has helped others worldwide, as well as at home. We acknowledge, applaud, and encourage that characteristic.
Culture of Renewal
We’ve been enjoying the warm sunshine in the last few weeks, now that spring has truly sprung. Perhaps as we get older we appreciate it more. The moments of quiet seem a little longer, a little sweeter, a little deeper.
If you haven’t stolen such a moment recently, we recommend it. The unblemished hills surrounding Sonoma can be a wonderful focus: alive with tumbling shades of green, they are lush, vivid reminders of life’s cycle. Or ponder the grape vines, bursting with bold vitality as new shoots reach out seemingly before our very eyes.
Springtime brings Easter, too, with its varied traditions, all speaking of renewal. The prolific bunny. Eggs soon to hatch (or be eaten, more likely). It is the time of Passover, preserving life for the Jews in Egypt and bringing their escape from slavery. And for many, Easter means the resurrection of Jesus, a symbol of eternal life.
These can be powerful messages of hope and renewal for all of us. However you celebrate, we wish you warm moments among family and friends. Happy Easter!
