We see several big names, be it filmmakers or politicians, in today’s world involved with philanthropic activities. Though there are several varied definitions of philanthropy, it can be understood as humanity working towards the betterment of humankind.The notion of philanthropy is not something new. Here is how the modern form of philanthropy reached its present version.
Classic philanthropy
Definition
Containing a blend of both ethics and metaphysics, the ancient Greek defined philanthropy as love of what it is to be human. It suggested that philanthropy was the essential nature as well as the purpose of civilization, culture, and humanity.
Notion of Freedom
Laws of Athens, as well as Socrates, were described as democratic and philanthropic. Prometheus’ gifts to humanity were regarded as an example of philanthropy against the despotism of Zeus, making it associated with the ideas of democracy and freedom.
Effect of time
With the substitution of classical civilization by Christianity, philanthropy was replaced with Christian Theology and Soteriology. Roman Catholic Church monitored both at the time. The meaning and importance of philanthropy further changed with the move made by feudalism to organize law and order. During the Italian Renaissance period, humanism was taught in accord to a particular academic curriculum. It included ethics, grammar, history, rhetoric, and poetry as a means of developing effective leadership in laymen for business, governmental, and law activities.
Modern philanthropy
Definition
The modern definition of philanthropy combines the classical humanistic view with a social scientific aspect. This POV defines philanthropy as any private initiatives that are targeted towards public good and focused on the quality of life. Modern philanthropy gave birth to the word philanthropist, meaning one who practices philanthropy.
Philanthropy vs. charity
Albeit closely related, charity and philanthropy are two different concepts. While charity aim at healing abrasion caused by a social problem, philanthropy attempts at addressing the root cause of the problem. Although there is a recognizable extent of overlap in both practices, not all charity is philanthropy and vice-versa.
Evolution of modern philanthropy
It was during the Age of Enlightenment when philanthropy acquired its modern form. The adoption of secular alternatives like rationalism and science developed after the 15th and 16th-century Wars of Religion in Europe further modified philanthropy. At that time, philanthropy was good deeds projected towards others to help in building a commonwealth community.This new idea of philanthropy was adopted by voluntary associations and affluent benefactors and resulted in the formation of charitable societies, gentleman’s clubs, and mutual associations in England and other major nations.
By the end of 18th century, several philanthropists began to assume active campaigning roles to abolish inhumane practice, such as slavery. The dawn of 19th century saw the formation of huge charitable organizations working towards improving the standard of life of the underprivileged. Henry Dunant’s Red Cross delegations gained him the first Noble Peace Prize in 1901. Among several countries, including Britain and the US, philanthropic activities became a fashionable trend among middle classes. Large sums, in the form of donations, began to be funded to schools and universities. The ideas of freedom of speech and education for all became immensely popular during the 20th century.
Child neglect is the most common form of maltreatment of children where their basic needs are not sufficiently met. These needs include adequate clothing, food, education, nurturing, emotional support, and health care. Neglect can result in harm or distress for the child or interfere with their development. So, it is important to recognize the common signs of child neglect to address the issue and protect the children using the right support measures.
Common signs of child neglect
Neglect can be physical and emotional. Some of the common signs of child neglect are:
Poor hygiene and unkempt appearance
When a child is physically neglected by caregivers, they may seem untidy. They could also lack good personal hygiene and have severe body odor. Further, the child may not wear appropriate clothes for the weather, and the clothing can seem unwashed or smelly. Due to unhygienic conditions, they may also show symptoms of skin infections such as scabies, flea bites, rashes, ringworm, and sores. For toddlers and infants, this form of neglect may manifest as recurring occurrences of nappy rashes.
Extreme changes in behavior
This is a sign of physical as well as emotional neglect that has developed over a long time, sometimes years. At a certain point, one may notice severe behavioral changes in the child. They can become extremely clingy or withdrawn into themselves, refusing to socialize. Sometimes, the child will exhibit aggressive or obsessive behavior. Some children experience anxiety, paranoia, and depression due to neglect. Further, persistent neglect can make a child exhibit antisocial behavior.
Poor academic performance
Another common sign of child neglect is drastic changes in performance at school. A neglected child undergoes trauma and psychological distress, making it hard for them to pay attention in class. Also, due to parental or guardian neglect, the child will often miss school leading to poor attendance records. As a result, they find it hard to keep up with the rest of the class and may not be able to grasp what is being taught in class. The child will be unable to complete assignments and projects on time and may persistently fail in tests. Their social skills become poor, and they may find it difficult to relate or connect with their classmates.
Frequent health issues
Another telltale sign that a child is neglected is failing health. This mostly results from a lack of regular and well-balanced meals. The deficiency of adequate nutrients, along with the psychological distress due to neglect, manifests in the form of several health issues in the child. They will show symptoms of anemia, weak muscle tone, malformed joints, and dental problems. Also, the child may go through recurring infections, such as in the ears or stomach. As a result, their abdominal region may appear too slim or swollen. The child may also have untreated injuries resulting from frequent accidents due to a lack of supervision. Additionally, they may experience fatigue. The caregivers may also not keep up with the child’s medical appointments.
Developmental problems
Another common sign of a child being neglected is developmental problems. Emotional and physical neglect affects the kid’s ability to reach developmental milestones that other children their age achieve. As a result, the child may have below-average language and social skills. Also, they may experience stunted or slow physical and emotional growth.
Housing issues
This is a less apparent sign of child neglect, which only becomes known when a social worker or a community worker visits the child’s home. They may observe that the kid’s bedtime, daily routine, and curfew time are overlooked. Also, the home could be unfit and unsanitary for a child, say, it lacks proper heating, light, or running water. Further, the child could be left unsupervised and alone for long periods of time. Sometimes, the child’s needs are neglected when they are compelled to become a caregiver for another member of the family, like younger siblings or an ailing parent.
Support measures
A child exhibiting just one of the above-mentioned signs does not necessarily mean they are neglected. But it becomes crucial to pay close attention if one notices such signs. In such cases, the following measures can be taken:
Listening to the child: It is important to avoid dismissing the child if they say they are being mistreated or neglected. So, one should refrain from questioning or doubting their claims or memory of the neglect. Dismissing their experience can make the child shut down and become afraid to report what they are going through. The best thing to do in such situations is to remain calm and reassuring.
Ensuring safety: Before helping the child, one should ensure their safety so that the intervention does not cause more harm to the child. Also, it is possible that the support may be considered a threat when caregivers suspect interference. So, one should observe the situation closely and connect with professionals to avoid putting themselves and the child in danger. Professionals will be able to handle the situation in the best way.
Reporting neglect: If one has reason to believe that a child is being neglected and it is threatening their wellbeing, it is important to report it. In addition, if it is evident that the incidences of neglect have been occurring repeatedly, one should report each incident separately. When significant information is provided over time, there is a higher chance the child will receive adequate assistance.
While several people participate in annual or bi-annual fundraising programs, it is not for everyone, especially for the people with no excess income. But that is not to say that such individuals cannot give back to society. If one is determined to help make a change, there are various ways to donate to charity. This can be via lending manpower, taking up service responsibility, etc. All you need is a little effort and some time.
6 non-monetary ways to donate to charity
By being creative
Are you a passionate baker? Or are you well versed in the art of sewing? Maybe knitting? What we are trying to say is you can put your skills to use for the greater good. You can find shelter homes, retirement communities, or schools that could use a little help with their community. Put together some of your creations and donate them to make their day a little brighter.
By being active
You can organize or participate in various marathons and triathlons to give back to people. Participate in events affiliated with or trying to raise funds for charities. If you look closely, you can find one happening at least every month in your city.
By being helpful
If monetary help is not something you can manage, be charitable with your time. Volunteer at soup kitchens or go to a public library and read to children. You can even volunteer at animal shelters and help them with cleaning and maintenance activities. Teaching kids from underprivileged communities is another way of being charitable on a daily basis.
By donating old possessions
Donating stuff that you have outgrown or don’t find useful anymore is one of the basic forms of charity. Sort different donation boxes for clothes, toys, shoes, and household items. If you are a traveler, you can even put together a box of hotel toiletries and donate it to the needy.
By donating miles
Multiple airlines are likely willing to help you in your act of kindness. Once you have accumulated enough miles to donate, contact your airline and inquire about the cause they support or the charity they contribute to.
By not littering
You don’t have to feel bad about not being able to fit charitable events into your busy schedule. Instead, try fitting small acts of charity into your daily routine. While out for your run or walk, pick up the litter and properly dispose of it. It will help clear walkways for people as well as animals.