Melinda Pearce
Public relations and communications director of NCGives
NCGives is a statewide organization dedicated to celebrating and strengthening the giving of time, talent and treasure in North Carolina, particularly among women, young people and communities of color. As North Carolina's Initiative for Inclusive Philanthropy, NCGives focuses on the power of every giver and every gift, through education, strategic relationships and advocacy. NCGives also provides informational resources through its website and giving-related technical assistance.
Why did you get involved in charitable work?
Growing up, I didn’t have what you might call a community-based mentality. But at some point during my college years, I developed the vague notion that I wanted to work “for the common good.” After graduating, I started a fellowship with the leadership development program Public Allies and that’s when I really began to understand and appreciate the value of community collaboration and giving back through service, both professionally and personally.
How can charitable giving be improved?
A crucial step is recognizing that the best charitable giving builds on what already exists in the community. As a colleague of mine often remarks, “pay attention and be intentional.” When we pay attention to local assets of time and talent, as well as treasure, both in-kind and monetary gifts, and when we’re intentional in connecting with diverse communities, charitable giving is amplified.
What can nonprofits do to improve their fundraising or operations?
As nonprofits learn to leverage and expand the giving patterns that already exist in their diverse communities, they begin to engage all of their communities’ assets, which grows giving. And when all community members feel recognized and appreciated as givers in their own right, donor loyalty is naturally strengthened.
What changes would you like to see in the charitable sector?
Greater connection between mainstream charitable institutions and the communities they seek to serve. The members of these communities are givers in their own ways, which provides even more room for genuine collaboration to take place.
