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'''Philanthropy''' refers to voluntary work intended for socially useful purposes.<ref>[http://www.britannica.com/EBchecked/topic/663243/philanthropy Encyclopædia Britannica]</ref> In the modern-day context, philanthropy is typically performed by organizations backed by large personal fortunes. The goals of philanthropy include, but is not limited to, eradication of poverty, hunger, and disease; support for education initiatives; and support for environmental conservation.

'''Philanthropy''' refers to voluntary work intended for socially useful purposes.<ref>[http://www.britannica.com/EBchecked/topic/663243/philanthropy Encyclopædia Britannica]</ref> In the modern-day context, philanthropy is typically performed by organizations backed by large personal fortunes. The goals of philanthropy include, but is not limited to, eradication of poverty, hunger, and disease; support for education initiatives; and support for environmental conservation.

Philanthropic organizations have existed since the [[Ancient Greece|Ancient Greeks]] and [[Ancient Rome|Romans]]. The practice was preserved by the [[Christian]] [[Church]] throughout the [[Middle Ages]] while [[Islam]] threatened to destroy Western civilization.

Philanthropic organizations have existed since the [[Ancient Greece|Ancient Greeks]] and [[Ancient Rome|Romans]]. The practice was preserved by the [[Christian]] [[Church]] throughout the [[Middle Ages]] while [[Islam]] threatened to destroy Western civilization. Today, people of faith [[atheism and charity|lead the way]] in terms of charitable donations and volunteer activity.

==Etymology==

==Etymology==