The Smithsonian National Museum of American History unveiled its Philanthropy Initiative and accompanying display to showcase individuals' gifts of time, talent, expertise and money. Included in this display is a rotating set of letters from those who committed to the Giving Pledge, including the letter from Epic founder and CEO Judy Faulkner.
The Giving Pledge is an initiative launched by Warren Buffet and Bill and Melinda Gates in 2010 in which the world's wealthiest individuals pledge to donate the majority of their wealth to philanthropy. In June 2015, Ms. Faulkner pledged 99 percent of her wealth to philanthropy.
The collection of letters from the Giving Pledge will be featured alongside other collections representing philanthropy in the U.S., such as a register book naming the 1,600 libraries Andrew Carnegie financed.
"Philanthropy has made a profound difference in defining who we are as individuals, a nation and how the world views us," said John Gray, director of the National Museum of American History. "These objects will help our visitors better understand the collaborative power of giving and how ordinary people contribute to the nation's well-being."
The Philanthropy Initiative includes a long-term space for a permanent philanthropy exhibition as well as an annual symposium on philanthropy and giving.
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