How generosity connects us
By Malavika Shrikhande / Community Foundation Volunteer, Operations and Program Grants Committee
My parents instilled in me the principle that supporting the community is a responsibility. My father was a well-known architect and mother an occupational therapist. Maybe it was his very humble beginnings that created the mindset that philanthropy is not just financial support but also volunteering one’s time and building a network of support so that even if I cannot deliver immediate assistance to a cause, I can reach out to a resource in my network that can provide assistance. Building a network can serve not only to address issues—but also create new opportunities.
Allow me to offer an example.
I’m a trustee of the Davenport Public Library. I’ve always believed that public libraries are community neighborhoods, and I have noticed that they have evolved beyond their conventional role of providing audio-visual materials and hosting informational and educational events. Public libraries are also an interface with some of our fellow community members who are dealing with challenging circumstances and looking for a friendly face or an expert resource for support.
I work at the St. Ambrose University library, and I know that our social work students are looking for internship opportunities. And so, connecting the public library with St. Ambrose created a symbiotic relationship that benefited both organizations while adding to the quality of life in our neighborhood. The Davenport Public Library is the first public library in Iowa to have a full-time social worker on staff. A network of support helped make that a reality.
The Quad Cities Community Foundation has a unique position in our community in helping foster connection and philanthropy. My own introduction to the Community Foundation came through my own daughter, Maitreyi, who participated in the Teens for Tomorrow youth philanthropy group for two years and then returned as a mentor. My husband, Devendra, and I were impressed with how the Community Foundation introduced the challenges and responsibilities of philanthropy to young people. When I was invited to sit on the Operations and Programs Grants Committee, I knew it was an cannot-miss opportunity. It was almost as if things had come full circle when Maitreyi received the Dr. Thomas Anthony Dooley Scholarship, which is awarded by the Davenport School District from a fund managed by the Community Foundation.
Irrespective of your age, role, or profession, there is a place for you at the Community Foundation to spread the principles of generosity and support across your own network of family, friends, and fellow community members. The more generous you can be with your time, talent, treasure, and influence, the more you will have the fulfilling satisfaction of understanding the community you’re a part of and knowing what else you and your network can do to help. That is how generosity connects a community.