Multi‐Media Philanthropic Autobiography

Socrates’ most famous philosophical maxim was “Know yourself.” The Multi‐Media Philanthropic

Autobiography is an opportunity for you to reflect on who you are (your core values, aspirations, and

ideals) and to think deeply about how your experience with giving and volunteering reflects and influences

your identity.

Recall your prior experiences with charitable giving and what motivates you to volunteer your time and

give your money, as well as your expertise, for the benefit of others. Reflect on the past, the present,

and consider your anticipate future plans. You may consider yourself and those around you as

philanthropists but also as recipients of philanthropy/service.

Thisis more than a listing of events; you should offer patterns or themesthat have emerged from your

philanthropic activities and reflect on the valuesthat your actions have expressed. The autobiography

should place your own goals, values, and/or actions thus far into the context of philanthropy. Your

essay must have a thesis statement and an organizational structure that reflects the themes that are

evident across your personal experiences.

Use the Wise Giving Activity from class and your responses as a basis for your essay. Revisit your

question responses, identifying values, desire to make a difference, top issues/areas of concern, and

mission/purpose statement. Use your responses to find themes and to create an organizational

structure and strategy for writing your paper. (If you missed class, please ask the instructor for a copy of

the packet.)

Rather than looking like a traditional paper in its appearance, think of this assignment like an article or

blog that you might read online. As such, rather than being a standard, double‐spaced paper, this

assignment is more creative and should look different. You should add images and hyperlinks

interspersed with the text. Your paper must include:

● An essay of 1200‐1500 words

● An introduction, thesis, and conclusion (see syllabus and P105 “Major Writing Assignments Rubric”

for additional writing tips and expectations). It is important that your paper feels complete and

well thought out.

● At least 8‐10 media illustrations of your autobiography, focused on philanthropy. These should

include a mix of:

o Photos and other images (personal and/or from organizations you mention)

o Hyperlinksto organizations and more information about topics you discuss

o Links to applicable video, music, podcasts (as they are available in relation to yourstory)

● An attractive and readable format