by Chip Roach, Charitable Foundation of the Islands Board Member
It began with a small book of that name. My wife, Nancy, and I hosted a luncheon for our family at Christmas time in 2012. We gave each family a copy of this thought-provoking book, “The Go-Giver”.
The target was to spread the spirit of giving (& receiving) throughout the “3rd generation” of the combined Oliver/Roach family. This book had captivated us…We wanted its message to bring the family closer together through active philanthropy.
Five $50 bills were sent by mail right after Thanksgiving to each family for distribution by the youngsters in that family. Give to someone who needs it. No rules other than that. Report due by mid-December at the luncheon.
Why the 3rd generation?
They were future leaders and the right age to believe in that spirit of giving (& even Santa) that should be featured this November/December. They would be fascinated by $50 bills coming in the mail. And teachable. And grateful to be receiving… and to be giving.
The tradition has continued since 2012. Last year, in December 2024, 40 family members attended in person, and 6 appeared via video presentations on the big screen in the dining room of the Inn at Villanova. The youngest was 3; the oldest was 29 years old.
The stories and presentations have varied over the years. Some acts involved those up-close-and-personal people they knew and (at the other end of the spectrum) organizations here and all over the globe. Many instances of matching gifts (some from the families themselves, some from the corporations where they work) … that’s hopeful.
The second piece of this family acting out the practice of philanthropy- a joint family gift to the same charity for the past 8 years…Home of the Sparrow. Each member donates “One dollar for each year on the earth” …it amounts to over $2,000 each year.
Occasionally, some members of the family join a “day of service” with “The Sparrow” …and/or sponsor their winter fundraising gala and the spring golf tournament.
The learning has been broad and deep within the family. It’s a natural activity and part of the Christmas holiday season—the benefits of giving go to both the “Go-Givers” and the recipients.
WOW! What an absolute honor to read this article and to learn that this wonderful Oliver/Roach Family tradition was inspired at least in part by John David Mann’s and my book! Thank you so much for being such heart-centered and amazing people…and for making such a positive difference in the world!