I'm fortunate to be in a position to support nonprofits that

Hear the voice of Channing Dungey, who spoke with gratitude and vision: “I’m fortunate to be in a position to support nonprofits that align with my personal priorities, which include women’s health issues, cancer research, environmental concerns, and education for women and children domestically and globally.” These words are not the boast of wealth, but the acknowledgment of duty—that those who are blessed with influence and resources must turn them toward the healing of the world. It is a confession of responsibility, rooted in humility, yet carrying the weight of ancient wisdom: to whom much is given, much is required.

The meaning of this quote rests in the sacred act of alignment—the joining of resources with values. Many give, but few give with thought, scattering coins without anchoring them in the causes that shape their spirit. Dungey speaks of directing her support with clarity toward women’s health, cancer research, environmental concerns, and education. In this we see a truth: philanthropy is not only generosity, but vision; it is the careful planting of seeds in the soil where one most desires to see the garden flourish.

The origin of her words lies in her own journey. Rising to prominence in the world of media, Dungey found herself with both platform and power. Yet rather than hoard these gifts, she turned them outward, joining her name and strength with nonprofits that fight battles larger than any one individual could bear: the battle against disease, the struggle for equality, the defense of the earth, and the liberation of women and children through learning. Her quote reveals this path—not only achievement, but transformation into service.

History itself offers us shining parallels. Consider the legacy of Andrew Carnegie, the titan of steel, who in his later years built libraries across America, believing that education was the true wealth of the people. Or recall Florence Nightingale, who after witnessing the horrors of war, devoted her life to health and the reform of medicine, sparking the rise of modern nursing. Each of these figures, in their own way, aligned their resources and influence with the priorities of their conscience. Channing Dungey’s words echo this lineage of purposeful giving.

The lesson is this: wealth and influence are tools, not treasures. Their highest use is not in comfort or display, but in service to humanity. To give to causes that uplift the suffering, to defend the earth from destruction, to fight for the health of the body and the awakening of the mind—this is the noblest calling of those who are able. Even for those without great fortunes, the principle holds: direct your time, your voice, your energy toward the causes that match your heart.

What then must we do? Each of us must examine our own priorities. Ask yourself: what do I care for most deeply? Is it the health of the sick, the defense of nature, the education of children, or the protection of the vulnerable? Once you know, align your giving—whether money, time, or effort—with those causes. Support nonprofits that labor in the shadows, bringing light where it is needed. Live not only for your own gain, but for the healing of others.

Thus, remember the wisdom of Channing Dungey: “I’m fortunate to be in a position to support nonprofits that align with my priorities.” Her fortune is not in wealth alone, but in knowing where to direct it. Let her words teach future generations that generosity without vision is fleeting, but generosity with alignment transforms the world. For in the end, the true measure of our lives is not what we keep, but what we give, and how faithfully we give it.