Our Purpose
The generation of philanthropists that has made
the greater Grand Rapids area what it is today
demonstrates by example a message of virtue and
wisdom that has never before been systematically
recorded for posterity. We believe this message
has the potential to invigorate future generations
to sustain our culture of philanthropy. Our purpose
is to gather this legacy in a powerful presentation
that can inspire and encourage this and future
generations.
Our Vision
Our vision is to build a robust body of research
of a significant group of philanthropists following
systematic interviews to document chronological
facts as well as philosophical values addressing
topics such as the meaning of friendship, family,
community and philanthropy through relaxed and
personal conversations. To that end, we will produce
a broadcast-quality documentary encapsulating
the values and wisdom of this generation in a
form that will move the audience to reflect and
feel inspired to live a generous life engaged
with the community.
Our Mission
The mission of the S.O.U.L. of Philanthropy team
was to create a lasting testimony to the power
of philanthropy in the words of those who helped
to create a culture of prosperity and giving in
the Greater Grand Rapids area. Our community has
benefited from their efforts, successes, and generosity,
and we hope to encourage the passing of the torch
of philanthropy to the next generation by sharing
their stories, values, and wisdom.
Our Plan
Phase I
Preserving the memories and wisdom of
a generation
August 2007 through February 2008
Phase I of our project is the interviewing of
approximately 30 philanthropists residing in the
greater Grand Rapids area, preceded by extensive
research, and recorded on high-definition video.
These interviews will be minimally edited for
ease of viewing and clarification, transcribed
and presented to the Grand Rapids Public Library
for archival purposes and future research.
Phase II
The legacy of a generation
February to October 2008
In Phase II we are producing a one-hour, broadcast-ready,
high-definition documentary about the lives and
lessons of this generation. The documentary is
based on the footage gathered in Phase I and includes
the authority, advice and interviews of local
and regional scholars as well as community beneficiaries
and community organizations.
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