February 22 is George Washington’s birthday, so it’s fitting to reflect on his life, leadership, and extraordinary service to the cause of freedom.
What’s less widely known is his lifelong commitment to charitable giving.
Washington gave generously to higher education, supported the care and education of orphans, and contributed—often anonymously—to hundreds of churches and charitable causes. He understood something modern nonprofit leaders still grapple with today: a strong civil society depends on voluntary generosity, not government alone.
To learn more about his legacy, I encourage you to read this profile from the Philanthropy Roundtable.
I’m reminded of his generosity every Sunday when I attend Mass at the Basilica of St Mary in Old Town Alexandria, Virginia.
Washington was an Episcopalian living in a colony where practicing the Catholic faith was illegal until after the Revolutionary War. Yet he made a substantial gift toward purchasing land for Alexandria’s first Catholic church—the original Saint Mary.
That decision speaks volumes. It reflects not only Washington’s personal generosity, but also his deep commitment to religious freedom and pluralism. He gave across differences, supporting institutions that did not mirror his own beliefs because he understood their importance to a free society.
As fundraisers and nonprofit leaders, we would do well to remember this example.
Today, let’s honor the philanthropists—large and small—whose generosity sustains our communities, advances freedom, and makes our work possible. And let’s recommit ourselves to building organizations worthy of that trust.
Happy Birthday, Mr. President—and thank you.
