Creative Philanthropy

At the North Georgia Community Foundation (NGCF), our vision is ‘North Georgia: Where giving is a way of life.’

 

Our long-time fundholders and friends, Pat and Dirk Mitchell, have a lifelong commitment to giving back and believes in the Power of Philanthropy. Especially, in CREATIVE Philanthropy – the kind of giving that creates and celebrates legacies, shows love, dreams big, has fun, spreads cheer, and shines joy everywhere.

 

To Pat, philanthropy is about the legacy we create, and the love we spread. She says the influence of her father, Walter Boomershine, is what shaped her compassionate and generous spirit and describes him as “A man among men,” and it is in his legacy that she has found the drive to give back in innovative and engaging ways.

 

She believes that “Giving shouldn’t be a burden, it should be a blessing, and that if you are passionate about something you can have fun with it!”

 

We are constantly inspired by Pat’s unique, fun, and meaningful approaches to creating a big impact. For instance, on July 20th, her father’s birthday, Pat announced that her and Dirk would be honoring her father through a huge celebration of giving called ‘DAD’S LEGACY.’ She chose to ‘gift’ over a dozen different charities and projects that have a connection with her father’s life passions.

 

Each gift creatively showcases the power of giving and a sense of legacy. Pat invites everyone to be a part of her DAD’S LEGACY by following along on social media (links are below) to see the impact being made. Her hope is to inspire others to give back – and emphasizes that philanthropy isn’t solely about significant financial contributions; even the smallest act of kindness can ripple through a community.

 

From hosting lively events for a cause to authoring books whose proceeds benefit local nonprofits or supporting the creation of a flying simulator lab for children (… and more creative projects and gifts to come!), Pat brings a compelling energy and infectious enthusiasm to everything she does and wherever she goes. Michelle, our President & CEO, was so inspired that she even jumped out of a “perfectly good airplane” with her! That certainly proves that NGCF goes the extra step for our fundholders!

 

But whether the ideas are crazy or not, they demonstrate how giving can both make a difference and be enjoyable. It is an honor and a constant adventure to work with Pat and Dirk, and we can’t wait to see what they will come up with next to celebrate her DAD’S LEGACY. In doing so, they are also creating and living out their own legacy and story of philanthropy.

 

As an organization that connects people, resources, and nonprofits for the greater good, NGCF is committed to strengthening our community and promoting philanthropy. To learn more about how to make charitable giving a part of your life’s adventure and legacy – reach out to us, we’d be happy to come alongside (or jump!) with you.

 

For Good. For Ever.