This is our first edition of what will be a weekly page devoted to Philanthropy in New York. An important part of New York Social Diary’s charter is to help promote the many wonderful organizations that provide a multitude of assistance, information, ideas, cultural and aesthetic contributions, and most importantly hope and inspiration to all kinds of people not only here in the city but all over the nation and the world.

In terms of sheer volume and fund-raising activity, New York is the center of Philanthropy in the United States. Its existence and influence extend well beyond the definition of the word. For in New York, probably more than in any other city in the world, philanthropy also drives an actual industry with its events and galas (a multi-billion dollar a year business, aside from funds raised), and serves as a center for much of the most important cultural and social activity in the city, the country and the world.

New York Social Diary regularly covers the kick off parties and benefit galas that showcase the seductive and glamorous aspect of philanthropic organizations in both our edit and our Party Pictures. This new page will give us the opportunity to shed more light on the individual organizations, their goals and objectives and the individuals who dedicate much of their time and money and even their lives, many of whom are the “unsung heroes” to these worthy causes.

Each week we will highlight a philanthropy that has an upcoming event on our NYSD calendar. We are familiar with many of these organizations and activities but there are many more which are relatively new and/or unknown to us. We are open to ideas and welcome the participation of all charitable ventures. You can contact us at philanthropy@newyorksocialdiary.com

Next week we will introduce a regular column by Toni Goodale on the nuts and bolts and strategies of fund raising. Mrs. Goodale is president of Goodale Associates, a fund-raising consulting firm that specializes in capital and annual campaigns and corporate solicitations.

Our objective is to create a page that will become a resource for the world of philanthropy, that will provide ideas and examples for those who are already extremely generous with their time and resources, and to provide insight and interest for those who want to participate but have not yet found a cause that speaks to them, to their community and beyond.