Giving In This Time: Why Locavore Philanthropy

Rachel Sagan & Rebecca Parkhill, Metrowest Women’s Fund Co-Founders

As co-founders of a new, community-based social venture, we are inspired and guided by the concept of “locavore philanthropy.” We created the Metrowest Women’s Fund because we think that supporting local non-profits is the best way to meet the significant needs of women and girls in Metrowest Boston.

Locavore philanthropy is a lot like the locavore food movement. During the pandemic, the locally grown food movement is increasingly relevant. People are focused on where their food comes from and many are making a conscious effort to consume locally grown foods as much as possible. The reasons to eat locally grown food include sustainability, support of local economies, and reduction in waste and energy involved in transporting food. Some advocates believe that locally grown food even tastes better.

We believe that the principles driving the local food movement apply to our giving and illustrate the power of local giving, i.e. Locavore Philanthropy.  

Locavore philanthropy includes supporting the issues that are close to your heart and home. Local dollars are arguably “fresher.” There is less distance between the community group, the people in need and the donor who makes the gift. Rich relationships can grow and develop between those who give and those who work or volunteer at local organizations, even on Zoom. Just as we meet the farmer at a Farmer’s Market, community-based non-profits offer donors many opportunities to meet fellow supporters, staff and volunteer leadership -- at Town Meeting, the baseball field, or a local business. These connections help us better understand the benefits these local agencies provide and the real needs facing children and families in our community. Local giving also holds the donors accountable to those they support. As members of a community, it is harder to turn our backs and look away.

There is tremendous power in giving locally to our smaller non-profits. Together, by giving locally, we can create sustainable results that support the most vulnerable in our community.