Philanthropic Distortion – Part 2 Sam Watts March 15, 2025 622 Think Philanthropically When Charitable Organizations Mislead Donors Last month’s column identified how donors like ourselves can suffer from a distorted perspective in the face of opportunities to make a donat...
Philanthropic Distortion – Part 1 Sam Watts February 19, 2025 490 Responding to the people we can relate to There is a large mural in an area in Los Angeles where thousands of unhoused people can be found. It identifies the area as Skid Row and lists the population as “Too M...
Is there really a “season” for kindness? Sam Watts January 30, 2025 657 Think Philanthropically Someone once said that we should act as if what we do makes a difference – because it does. In the past month or so we have been implored by charitable organizations to make a differen...
A Year End Message to Our Readers Sam Watts December 9, 2024 667 Think Philanthropically “Giving is not just about making a donation. It is about making a difference.” - Kathy Calvin I’d like to begin this column by wishing all the loyal readers of The Montrealer a wonderfu...
The Currency of Generosity Sam Watts November 14, 2024 703 Think Philanthropically Money is but one venue for generosity. Kindness is an even more valuable currency. – Alan Cohen We are headed into the end-of-year “giving season.” This is the time of year when many of...
What Needs to Change in Canadian Philanthropy? Sam Watts October 12, 2024 939 Think Philanthropically Last month this column left readers in suspense. We suggested that some things need to change in order for philanthropic efforts to shift into a 21st century mindset and that a number o...
Changing Our Approach to Philanthropy Sam Watts September 14, 2024 926 Think Philanthropically “Billions are wasted on ineffective philanthropy” – Michael Porter I will risk being a bit repetitive. This column has frequently focused on the need to change the way we think and act ...
Three Perfect Days in Edinburgh Sam Watts September 1, 2024 1184 Plenty of people recommend Edinburgh as a “must visit” city. Sometimes third party endorsements can produce unrealistic expectations. Where Edinburgh is concerned, the favourable comments were 100% accurate. It...
Kindness Can Overcome Fear Sam Watts August 14, 2024 1086 Think Philanthropically An ill wind of fear risks permeating our perceptions. It is rooted in genuine concern for the wellbeing of our families and neighbours but it can lead to a variety of misunderstandings....
Six glorious days in London Sam Watts July 12, 2024 1154 Is it possible to see a city of 620 square miles, in six days? The answer is yes – and no. It is certainly impossible to see everything, but with some diligent preparation you can experience London in a varie...
