What comes to mind when you think of your typical donor?  

For a lot of people, it’s someone older. Retired. Probably wealthy. Probably on a board or two. And the truth is, there’s nothing wrong with that image. These donors have helped build entire hospitals, fund research, and expand access to care. Their generosity is real.

But the more I think about philanthropy, from both a personal and professional lens, the more I realize that image is just one version of giving. And when it’s the only version we see, we overlook a growing group of donors.  

A New Perspective from a New Generation

As someone born in 1997, I sit right on the generational border of Millennial and Gen Z. I'm just old enough to remember life without smartphones, but young enough to panic if I leave mine at home. That in-between feeling is synonymous with how many of my peers and I show up in this space: not necessarily with big checks but with a real interest and a desire to make an impact. 

For me, that started with one of my first jobs after college. I was working for a hospital and, without knowing anything about philanthropy at the time, I signed up to give almost immediately. It wasn’t a big decision. I saw the option and thought, “why not?” Looking back, that was my first real experience of giving.  

From Moments to Meaningful Connections

And even now, that hasn’t changed much. I’m drawn to those quick and easy ways to support the things I care about. If I see a QR code to donate in a hospital, I probably will; I’ll round up a few dollars at check out, because it’s simple and feels good; I’m also likely to repost a TikTok, share a Facebook fundraiser, or follow an organization on Instagram or X because that kind of convenience just makes sense. So does the ability to give time, to get involved, and to feel like part of something.

For people like me, those early, small touchpoints are where the relationship begins. Not with a big gift, but with a moment. A small gesture. A sense of connection. I know they seem minor, but they are the first steps to something deeper.  

Connection doesn’t start with a transaction. It starts with being seen. And those relationships that start now build trust and are likely to grow into something that lasts.  

Meet the Donors You Might Be Missing

So back to the question of: what comes to mind when you think of your typical donor?

Chances are, it’s probably not me: Someone young. Biracial. Tattooed. Likely in more group chats than I am in boardrooms. I’m not writing six figure checks—but I am paying attention, and I do care. About impact, equity, and the world around me.  

And I’m not the exception. I’m part of a growing generation that’s redefining what generosity looks like. We’re not waiting until we “make it” to start giving. We’re already doing it. We’re not your biggest donors (yet). But we will be one day.  

We’re curious, invested, and already showing up. The opportunity to build alongside us is also here.

We are your pipeline.

So, if your idea of a donor hasn’t changed, maybe it’s time.