Karoff and Ambassador Hunt challenge donors to be counted.
Date Published: October 3, 2008
Ambassador Swanee Hunt and conductor Dr. Charles Ansbacher hosted a diverse mix of philanthropists, community leaders, social entrepreneurs and engaged citizens for “A Cambridge Conversation with Peter Karoff” in their Cambridge home.
Bringing together his exploration of the moral dimensions of philanthropy and the tumultuous times we now find ourselves in, Peter Karoff discussed the “moral hazards” we face in our giving such as when a gift or social intervention violates the rule of “do no harm.” But perhaps the biggest philanthropic moral hazard, Karoff suggested, especially in a time of crises, is when a donor does not stand up to be counted when it is important to do so.
“If we do not respond we establish a pattern of behavior that sends a message to ourselves and others, that either we do not care, or care enough, or do not have the courage of our convictions. If we do not act when we can and when we should, we have indeed done harm,” said Karoff.
The evening was supported by the Hunt Alternatives Fund, a foundation lead by Ambassador Hunt that has committed some $120 million in endowments and grants to provoking social change at local, national and global levels. The Hunt Alternatives Fund supports programs including The Initiative for Inclusive Security, and The Women Waging Peace Network, which advocates for the full participation of all stakeholders, especially women, in peace processes.
