Perspectives on Where and How to Foster Generosity

Core to our mission is building a more compassionate and generous world and so we reached out to some of the most generous folks we know to ask them to share where they think their generosity comes from.

Matt Kellogg

That’s a great question. I think my generosity comes from a mix of gratitude and perspective. I know what it feels like to struggle – to build something from nothing, to take risks when the odds aren’t in your favor. So, when I’m in a position to help others, whether it’s through opportunity, mentorship, or resources, it feels like a responsibility, not a favor. I believe business isn’t just about profit – it’s about impact. If you’re in a position to give, why wouldn’t you? Read More>> 

Reggie Joude

“I want to be remembered as someone who gave more than they took—not just in material things, but in time, in love, in kindness. That thought keeps me grounded. It reminds me that the real legacy we leave behind isn’t measured in what we achieve or accumulate, but in how we made others feel, how we showed up for them, and the light we brought into their lives. Generosity, for me, is a quiet promise to keep giving, even when no one’s watching.” Read More>> 

Eric Lewis

My generosity comes from a strong background in service. I feel that trait was instilled in me from my mom. Currently she holds a public office for the exact same reason why I started Engolio Company, to help bring out the purpose in others. I truly believe I can see the talent and gift in others, and if I can assist them with reaching their potential (via providing guidance, creating a platform or cheerleading for them), my joy will come from that. Read More>>

Maxine

My generosity is deeply rooted in my faith. I believe everything I have is a gift from God, and I’m simply a steward of those blessings. Whether it’s time, knowledge, or opportunity, I feel called to give and to serve with an open heart. I’ve also had the privilege of being surrounded by mentors and team members who have poured into me over the years, so giving back, especially in ways that empower others, is one of the most natural and joyful parts of who I am. Read More>> 

Lelo Martinez

It does definitely come from my grandmother. She was such a generous woman, who was always giving to others, specially to those in need. Those who used to find a shelter under her loving and big heart. Since I was a little girl, she inspired me in unimaginable ways how she used to support us. I remember seen our home filled up with relatives visiting from out of town. Our home will become a “hotel Mama” from time to time. And beyond her grandmother role, for me, she was my angel protector on earth. Read More>> 

Timothy Renteria

My generosity is deeply rooted in the life I lived growing up in a small town in South Texas. I was raised alongside three brothers in a home where love was abundant, but material resources were scarce. While many of the kids around us had things like go-karts, video games, or brand-new shoes, we learned early on how to find joy in the little things and value each other over material possessions. When I was about 13, my father passed away from cancer, and from that moment on, everything changed. Read More>> 

Jane Kim

I grew up with a dad who has the kindest soul, I think I get it from him. I grew up with the saying of “if you have nothing nice to say, don’t say it at all,” and was taught to be kind to everyone. It takes a lot for me to be mean to anyone, and it drains so much of my energy that I don’t want to be giving to someone who’s already being rude to me. I tend to be very sensitive and take things to heart. I recognize that everyone has a bad day, and I don’t want to make it worse by being rude in return. My mentality and one of my favorite things about myself is my kindness.  Read More>> 

James L

Since I was little I’ve always wanted to help people. Being shy and in the background most of my life it helped me to help people. Even now I still help because when I’m down knowing that I lifted someone else up makes my dark days brighter. Read More>> 

Jade Lascelles

I was lucky to be raised in a family and household where generosity was the default. Both of my parents modeled a way of living where being kind and generous to others was always the first and best way forward. As I grew into my own creative and professional life, I could see how this foundational generosity helped me to understand what it is to be in community and collaboration with others.  Read More>> 

 Arlin Pacheco

My Mom. She told me every time I visited our family or when I traveled alone, “Take of the people around you. If you care for your community, they will care for you”.
That is something that has stuck with me. I’ve been alone for a lot of trials in my life, but I can often remember a stranger being kind in the most inopportune moment. Read More>> 

Erica Lopez

Generosity is so powerful and needed in this world. I think when a person goes through traumatic experiences and pain in some ways they build empathy. I launched Daxson Publishing because art saves lives, and it is very healing. I also teach high school English, and personally it is when children or teenagers are experiencing heart break or loneliness boy I can relate so much, and so I try to create a safe space in my classroom for students, and also through my publishing company I am dedicated to publishing marginalized voices. Read More>> 

Cat Flint

My generosity comes from my parents. Growing up in a small rural town in NY really shaped me into the person I am today. My mom started a non-profit in my town to help those in need. Every Thanksgiving we deliver over 500 meals to the community as well as Christmas gift giveaways. It’s moments like that that truly humble you and make you gracious for all that you have. I will always find ways to give back, no matter where I am! Read More>> 

 Jeff Cohen

I remember when I was starting out I knew no one in the music business except had a friend from college who’s father worked for SONY. I asked him if there was a good person to send my resume to and he said just send to human resources and wouldn’t even give me a name or put in a good word. I never forgot that. When I started working at BMI I had a philosophy that everyone I met with leave our meeting at least one step ahead of when they arrived.  Read More>> 

Where do you get your work ethic from?

We’ve all heard the phrase “work hard, play hard,” but where does our work ethic

Tactics & Strategies for Keeping Your Creativity Strong

With the rapid improvements in AI, it’s more important than ever to keep your creativity

From Burnout to Balance: The Role of Self-Care

Burning out is one of the primary risks you face as you work towards your