For first-time givers, the entry point does not have to be complex. Starting close to home — within one’s community, workplace or neighbourhood — often reveals opportunities that are both urgent and tangible. Education, health and disaster relief are common starting points, but underfunded areas such as language education, heritage, urban ecology and mental health often struggle to attract attention.
Equally important is resisting the urge to spread resources too thin. “It’s better to commit deeply to one cause than to donate small amounts everywhere,” Nundy says. “That’s how you learn, build relationships and see outcomes.”
Learning is, in fact, central to the process. Giving well requires patience, discernment and a willingness to ask uncomfortable questions about impact. These skills are developed over time — not acquired automatically with wealth.
Waiting until one feels ‘rich enough’ also delays this learning curve. By the time significant capital becomes available, many donors are ill-equipped to deploy it thoughtfully. “You have to learn how to give,” Nundy says. “Starting early, even in small ways, builds that muscle.”
There are signs this mindset is shifting. Younger professionals are donating small portions of their salaries. Families are involving children in giving decisions. Philanthropy is beginning to look less like a destination and more like a parallel journey alongside wealth creation.
