Revised: What Is Philanthropy? A Documentary on Giving

What is Philanthropy?, an educational documentary that that portrays and discusses the concept of giving within the American context through a critical lens and a variety of perspectives, is now available through Indiana University Press. Use code FMG3XX to get a special introductory 30% discount.

The film covers the concept of giving from a variety perspectives including actor Mike Farrell, NFL quarterback Alex Smith, Evelyn Lauder from the Estee' Lauder Companies, Civil Rights Leader Dr. William G. Anderson, Nell Newman, co-founder of Newman's Own Organics, US Senator Charles Grassley, as well as leading scholars and average citizens.

The feature length film comes with the following:  20 scene selections by topic  4 special features  Subtitles in Spanish, French, Mandarin and English (SDH) Music by:  Ziggy Marley  Patti Smith  Peter Kaukonen  Mike Killeen

This documentary was an official selection of four film festivals and has been nominated for an Eclipse Award and Michigan Emmy Award. Here is what people are saying: "Your film will provide needed content for discussion at the higher education level about the valuable role that philanthropy plays in our American culture. College students can benefit from these stories as they consider career choices and how to best use their time and talent as well as financial resources to make a difference in a cause they care about." — Robert S. Collier, President of Council of Michigan Foundations

"As a faculty member to teaches nonprofit management I can tell you that this film will go a long way to fulfilling a need in today’s discourse relating to the nonprofit and philanthropic sector. Dr. Alaimo and his colleagues explore the many faces of philanthropy, highlighting its enormous contributions as well as its dark side. I am certain that this film will go a long way to changing the way that we, as a society, engage in charitable giving and public service." — Joanne Carman, Associate Professor, University of North CarolinaCharlotte

"I see many uses for this documentary: in formal high school, college and graduate level studies; tools for organizations such as the United Way, community foundations and giving circles to use with prospective donors and constituents; and through nonprofit, and foundation sector professional development programs." — Jill Kramer, Associate Vice President for Strategic Planning and Grants, Ivy Tech Community College

"Philanthropy is not well understood by policy makers or the general public. This film will help address that problem. A thorough and honest portrayal of the strengths and shortcomings of philanthropy will be just what the doctor ordered." — Aaron Dorfman, Executive Director, National Committee of Responsive Philanthropy