I was surprised to read "Why charity doesn't start at (our) home," Dec. 23, about the lack of giving in the Capital Region.
As a philanthropy adviser, I meet people every week giving their time and money to causes they care about. At organizations like CAPTAIN and Girls Inc., among so many others, donor and goodwill stories abound. In organizations like The Stakeholders and Saratoga Springboard, talented people have committed to take action and create change through volunteering.
Yet, our own Siena Research Institute tells us two-thirds of the people surveyed said they do not know where to go to help or they haven't been asked; we must pay attention.
On the same day I read the article, I watched Elie Wiesel on television talking about his new book, "Open Heart." Of all people, Elie Wiesel said he wakes up every day and asks, "Have I done enough?" Each of us should consider this question for ourselves.
The combination of these two articles compelled me to write this letter to share a clear and consistent message that I ask almost everyone I meet: "What will your legacy be?" This one simple question often inspires people to give thought to their own mortality, contemplate how they will be remembered, and take philanthropic action.
To encourage further thinking, I created the Formula to Inspire: C+C+A=C. I urge people to Care about anything, Commit wholeheartedly to it, take specific and spirited ACTION on it, and see the positive CHANGE.
What do you care about enough to commit to it through volunteering and philanthropy? Be proactive, don't wait to be asked. Let's be sure we show the world exactly how much we do care in the Capital Region.
SUSAN L. AXELROD
Rexford