The Gift of Giving: Insights on Authentic Generosity

We asked some of the most generous entrepreneurs, artists and creatives we know to talk to us about where they think their generosity comes from.

Veronique Benhayoun

My generosity comes from knowing what it is like to have nothing so when I can give back generously, I do. Everyone needs help sometimes, and that’s okay! Read more>>

Sarah Downing

I once had a dear teacher, Hugh Gilbert, who advised us to “be the change you wish to see in the world”, which is apparently a paraphrasing of a Mahatma Gandhi quote. Hugh has since passed on, but I still strive to become an embodiment of that lesson. It seems so simple, yet at times it can be so difficult to implement. Read more>>

Al The Great

My generosity stems from a deep-seated belief in the importance of being selfish. As I’ve grown wiser, I’ve come to understand that you have to have a Godly view of selfishness and truly love yourself. The Bible teaches us to love others as we love ourselves, but many people today like themselves without truly loving themselves.  Read more>>

Laquetta Dixon

Being genuine from the jump towards the person, Always standing on business & being Transparent. I learned in my early years building a relationship with the client brings in a lot of TRUST . Read more>>

Kymbra Li

I have a special place in my community because I can successfully navigate many different cultures. I’m also a white female rapper, which means I’m a guest in hip hop and if I’m allowed to operate within this sphere, it is my duty to give back to the community who gave us so much culture with amazing music.  Read more>>

Lewis Warren

Well, most of what I do over at Monkey Paw Toys we do it for the people and not for the recognition that you see others do for likes and notoriety. For myself and my crew it’s about taking care of our community. There have been a bunch of people that have came into the shop with different stories and different walks of life. Read more>>

Monica Faucheux

Gift giving has always been one of my love languages. I love the joy you can spread from simple gestures. I also find that every generous or kind act comes back ten-fold. The more good you put out in the universe, the more comes back your way. If it hasn’t yet, just wait! Read more>>

Moya McAlister

My mom. My mother Jackie is a beautiful spirit. I grew up with people stopping her on the street, in an elevator, in the doctors office and on load all their fears and challenges on her. She always listened, prayed for them, and provided her wisdom.  Read more>>

Ehren Tool

I just make cups. The cups become something more when they are in the hands of folks how appreciate them. Most of my work has to do with my time in the Marine Corps, the 1991 Gulf War and returning to the civilian world. Most of the folks who respond to my work are folks who have been in the military or who have been affected by war. Read more>>

Ana Banda

My generosity stems from watching my parents give selflessly to others throughout the years. My parents always taught me to be humble and modest in all areas of my life. They taught me that no matter how successful I may become, it can all be taken away in a moment’s notice. It is always more favorable to show your character over showing off a shiny new object. Read more>>

Robert Zapata

I grew up in 2 different worlds. One where I had anything I wanted and the other where I had to earn everything I wanted. As a child I enjoyed the first but as an adult I realized the latter was more important. Not many people get the opportunity to have both. Many people are born into the second. I think my generosity stemmed from me wanting to help people enjoy a good and honest life. Read more>>

William Reich

Since I was little, I have always been a generous and nice person. I always think of others first before me. I am a seasonal substitute teacher so definitely have a generosity side with teaching kids. Read more>>

Jacqueline Rodriguez

My generosity comes from my parents. They’ve always taught me that if I’m in a position to help someone, to do it. They constantly remind me to remain humble as well, because the same way God gives, God takes. I feel that my faith also plays a significant role in my generosity. Read more>>

Joselyn Medina

I love this question. My generosity comes from my purpose. You see we are born with unique gifts/ talents and I’ve always believed they are meant to be shared with the world! My purpose became the vehicle for me to serve to my community. We have to be a blessing to receive blessings, so that thought alone keeps me going to go harder and never stop serving. Read more>>

Over the years I’ve had so many People take me under their wings. My mom and dad taught me the love of God. Ms Edna pemberton taught me how to me importance of community. Ms tressie Langston taught me servitude. Read more>>

Vanecia Ashantee

My generosity definitely comes from my upbringing. I was raised by really noble and kind individuals, they consistently taught me what it was to be selfless through their own actions. The value of all of the “small” things in life was always highlighted. As I matured, I realized how important growing up around that much love and gratitude was. Read more>>

Kaitlan Long

My generosity finds its roots in the very essence of Downtown Flowers and the community it serves. Being the owner of such a beloved establishment nestled in the heart of Historic Downtown Toccoa, I’ve been fortunate to witness firsthand the unwavering support and warmth of this community. Read more>>

Sarah Beck

My generosity comes from the joy of giving back, I am so very grateful for all of the abundance in my life. I have learned that sharing and coming from a place of gratitude even when times are tough can change your perspective on life and business. Read more>>

Daphnee Momperousse

I’m just a giver by nature, but my generosity comes from so many different experiences in my life. I learned from an early age to root for the underdog. I watched my parents support people financially and emotionally who were in difficult situations because they felt it was the kind thing to do. I realized it just feels good knowing that you helped someone or made them smile. Read more>>