Complementary Forces for Good: John Farnam & Paul Heitzenrater

12/10/24 • 35 min

John Farnam and Paul Heitzenrater describe the myriad ways they engage with their community (Denver) from collecting and donating socks and suitcases, growing and giving away fresh produce, to chairing galas that raise $1 million. Their combined generosity of time, treasure, talent (and ties and testimony) fulfills both urgent and basic needs as well as addresses systemic issues, even as they each approach philanthropy differently. In this episode, they share personal experiences that inform both their individual and joint perspectives. We all can learn something from these two beautiful humans and their embodiment of the literal meaning of the word 'philanthropy.'
Bonus: Here are just three of the organizations John & Paul support --
Urban Peak
Mount View Boulevard Presbyterian Church
Metro Caring, and here's a wonderful article about the organization that also spotlights their work

Do you have a story to share? Reach out at [email protected]. I'd love to talk with you!
Stefanie Borsari, Linked In
Artwork by Justin Novick
Special Thanks to Daya Ottley

Do you have a story to share? Reach out at [email protected]. I'd love to talk with you!
Stefanie Borsari, Linked In
Artwork by Justin Novick
Special Thanks to Daya Ottley

Previous Episode

Because of Relationships: Valerie Kind-Rubin, Managing Trustee, Patricia Kind Family Foundation

Valerie Kind-Rubin is simultaneously a daughter, a sister, a mother, a wife, an aunt, a sister-in-law, and Managing Trustee of the Patricia Kind Family Foundation. Patience, humility, and her careful attention to and passion for relationships contribute to her success in navigating the complexity of being both a family member and the executive leader of the private foundation her mom founded in 1996. In this episode, Valerie describes her challenges, satisfaction, and joy in helping the foundation face and agree on a decision about its future.
Bonus: Shame on us - at the beginning of our dialogue, Valerie and I obliquely reference "Ron" without any additional context. We mean Ron Toles, Founder and Executive Director of the small but mighty Ordinarie Heroes. Check out -- and prepare to be be inspired by -- this grassroots organization's powerful dedication to improving the lives of young people.

Do you have a story to share? Reach out at [email protected]. I'd love to talk with you!
Stefanie Borsari, Linked In
Artwork by Justin Novick
Special Thanks to Daya Ottley

Next Episode

Meaningful Moments: Deborah Goldstein, Founder and Principal of Enlightened Philanthropy

Deborah Goldstein and I cover the map today, going deep into a discussion about 'meaningful moments,' what is meant by the term 'philanthropic journey,' and how the word 'burden' is sometimes applied to the concept of philanthropy <-- what could possibly be burdensome about having such abundance that you can give money away?!
As Founder and Principal of Enlightened Philanthropy and the creator and head counselor for Philanthropy Camp for Women, Deborah shares how her personal experience informs her philosophy and approach to working with both emerging and seasoned donors and explains how she helps people find the joy, meaning, and power in identifying as a philanthropist.
Bonus : Deborah referenced two publications, including:

The Power of Moments by Brothers Chip Heath and Dan Heath
National Center for Family Philanthropy's research piece, Overcoming Psychological Barriers to Giving

Also, check out Wikipedia for more information about tzedakah boxes and the concept of tzedakah itself.

Do you have a story to share? Reach out at [email protected]. I'd love to talk with you!
Stefanie Borsari, Linked In
Artwork by Justin Novick
Special Thanks to Daya Ottley