“A philanthropist is someone who engages in philanthropy; that is, someone who donates his or her time, money, and/or reputation to charitable causes.” So, says Wikipedia. Ebony Perkins is a philanthropist. And as one who has been a recipient of the generosity of others, Ebony seeks to give to causes she cares about, and she shows others how their giving, no matter how little, if done strategically and collectively, can impact individuals and communities.
For many who think that philanthropy is for multimillionaires and that they have nothing to give, Ebony says, “Giving is a team effort.” And I will lend my voice to that. You don’t have to do it alone; you just need to be part of the move and contribute your quota to make it happen. I have heard it said that one of us is not as great as all of us (or something along those lines). On your own, you may not be able to make much impact but by teaming up with others, yes you can!
So, if you’ve always wanted to give to worthy causes but you thought your ‘widow’s mite’ could not make a difference, or perhaps you do not know where to place that ‘widow’s mite’ for it to make a difference, you need to have a conversation with Ebony. Yes, read her interview and then contact her. She helps people help people. And she shows you how to support the causes you believe in starting right where you are. Aren’t you delighted to learn that you can be a philanthropist without being Bill Gates et al?
Tell us a little about yourself. Where were you born? And where did you grow up?
I was born and raised in Columbia, South Carolina in the United States of America. I grew up in a very southern and conservative part of the country. I loved my community, culture, and our one-of-a-kind southern charm. There was a strong divide, however, among racial and economic lines. The different races and classes lived separate lives and rarely interacted. Despite this, I’ve learned a lot about the different races and classes, and these lessons helped prepare me for my calling.
Were your parents Christians? When and how did you become a Christian?
Yes, my parents are Christian, and they raised me in this faith. My family always emphasized the importance of GOD’s love, grace, and mercy. They also shared the importance of recognizing God’s omniscient power. I officially became a Christian in August 2001.
What have some of the defining moments of your life been?
One of the most defining moments in my life was when I volunteered to serve food to the “less fortunate” when I was in high school. I never expected to run into someone I went to school with, but I did—I served one of my classmates. Before that moment, I was stuck in my own world, not realizing that others did not have the same advantages and privileges I did. This moment was life changing because it forced me to acknowledge my privilege.
When and how did you begin The Philanthropist Next Door?
I started The Philanthropist Next Door in April 2016. There was no secret to getting started—I just jumped right in! Because I work in the philanthropic field, I have a lot of experience in this area. I was prepared to use my talent and skills to help people give. I also feel like my entire life has prepared me for this moment.
What attracted you to philanthropy?
I’ve always been attracted to business and public service. Philanthropy is the perfect marriage of the two. I really believe this is my calling.
How and why did you choose the name?
Unfortunately, because most people affiliate the word philanthropy with money, many people don’t want to make a financial gift because they feel that the amount they can afford won’t make a difference. This is not true! It was incredibly important that the word philanthropy is in the name, but the average person needs to be able to self-identify.
How has this ministry impacted on your life?
This ministry has enhanced my life because it reminds me every day how blessed I am and to remain grateful for the life I have. It has also taught me my purpose of serving others and making a difference. It’s rewarding to know to know that you are walking in your purpose and fulfilling GOD’s will for your life.
What is the most rewarding thing you have done thus far, and why it was rewarding?
The most rewarding experience was helping a client award his first scholarship to his high school. The purpose of the scholarship was to support a student that is graduating and pursuing a trade. This May we awarded the first scholarship to a young man who is interested in a career in engineering.
The recipient is a young, quiet student who describes himself as shy. He didn’t have the often extroverted personality we saw from the other scholarship applicants, yet he was extremely captivating and humble. We chose to support this deserving student who may be overlooked by scholarship grantees in favor of the more extroverted applicant. It was confirmed that we made a great decision when we gave the student the award and met his mother. He expressed his gratitude and was extremely appreciative for the support. It was an incredible feeling knowing that we made a difference.
What awards have you received?
I’ve been recognized as a Woman on the Move by the Blind Spot Art Foundation. I’ve also been recognized in the inaugural Columbia’s Women Day. I’ve also been the cover story for the December 2016 issue of HIMPower Magazine where I discussed the importance of philanthropy.
In what ways has the ministry brought you victory in your personal life?
My ministry has helped me in my personal life because it has given me a way to give back to help others. It has made my life much more gratifying because I know that I am doing something to support a much bigger purpose than myself.
I recognize that my ministry is all a part of GOD’s plan, and it means the world to me to know that he has asked me to play a role. It’s been extremely humbling.
Did you know you were going to be doing this job at this stage in your life?
Not at all. I didn’t even know about philanthropy as a career option until nearly five years ago. This happened by chance, but I couldn’t be any happier about where I’ve landed.
What is most rewarding about your job; what makes it all worthwhile?
The most rewarding thing about my job is knowing that I am helping others make a difference. I also find the planning and creativity parts of my job rewarding.
What do you plan to have accomplished in five, 10, 20, and 50 years — personally and/or professionally?
Within the next few decades, I hope to build a family and build an empire to help others to give and support the groups and causes that are important to them.
What else would you like people to know about you?
I don’t know why I’ve been chosen to perform this work, but I’m committed to doing it to help others and fulfill GOD’s will.
What are you most grateful to God for helping you to do?
One of my greatest prayers is that GOD will use me to help someone else. He has blessed me by helping me create The Philanthropist Next Door. Through this organization, I help people help people. I am thankful that he’s using me to fulfill His will.
How has God received the glory through your life and work?
Jesus preached about helping the less fortunate. Mark 10:21 says “Jesus looked him hard in the eye—and loved him! He said ‘There’s one thing left: Go sell whatever you own and give it to the poor. All your wealth will then be heavenly wealth. And come follow me.’” As I help people help others, GOD receives the glory because we are fulfilling His will.
I also believe that it’s important to lead by example. It’s even more important for others to see GOD in you. When others see Him in me, it’s a conversation starter, and I can share His message. I pray that my actions encourage others to strengthen their relationship with GOD.
Where can people get more information about you and your achievements?
Please follow my work via my website (www.philanthropistnextdoor.org), Facebook (facebook.com/philanthropistnextdoor), and LinkedIn (linkedin.com/in/ebonyperkins).
