Philanthropy: Creating the World You Want to Live In
May 08, 2026
Deborah Goldstein, Philanthropic Advisor and Founder of Enlightened Philanthropy, shares how philanthropy becomes a reflection of your values, your legacy, and your vision for the future.
Key Takeaways
🔹 Philanthropy is an opportunity to create the world you want to live in.
🔹 Giving starts with your values and aligns best when it reflects who you are.
🔹 Philanthropy is for everyone and can include time, talent, ties, testimony, truth, and treasure.
🔹 Donor-advised funds and family foundations help structure intentional giving.
🔹 Philanthropic advisors help families design strategies that maximize impact.
🔹 Modeling generosity teaches the next generation how and why to give.
🔹 The most meaningful gifts often reflect clarity, courage, and compassion.
💭 Tony’s Take: Financial readiness includes thinking about impact, legacy, and generosity. When we give with intention, philanthropy becomes a powerful expression of who we are and what we value.
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Connect with Deborah Goldstein:
TEDx Talk:
- Are you a philanthropist? | Deborah Goldstein | TEDxSantaCatalinaSchool - Watch on (YouTube)
Resources mentioned:
- The Donor Bill of Rights: https://afpglobal.org/donor-bill-rights
Bio:
Deborah Goldstein, founder of Enlightened Philanthropy, is dedicated to guiding philanthropists in giving. Drawing from more than 25 years of experience in the nonprofit field, she supports clients on their philanthropic journey helping them align their values with their giving so they can give with clarity and confidence. Goldstein particularly enjoys helping families give collaboratively and experience meaningful moments together as the next generation engages in this process. She is also the creator of Philanthropy Camp for Women, an opportunity for women to explore their giving and learn in community.
Goldstein holds a BA in Biology from Wittenberg University and a Master’s Degree in Marine Policy with a Certificate in Museum Studies from the University of Delaware. She has worked for Oregon State University, the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry, and the Monterey Bay Aquarium. Goldstein is a 21/64-certified consultant. She is also co-Dean of Philanthropy for the Purposeful Planning Institute.
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