Hall & Associates, Ltd

As primary supporters of activities connected with the renewal of the human spirit, philanthropists know that funding these programs serve a very important role in the cycle of life.

Philanthropists accept the 100% chance of risk in their giving efforts; however, when successful, the personal returns on the gift are immeasurable. The rewards from giving can be rich in the experiential and qualitative aspects of life, and laden with hope for the future.

The work of philanthropy is something one is privileged to do. However, it is not reserved for only the privileged. Today, there is a dramatic increase in people’s interest in philanthropic activities. They want to make a difference with their lives now rather than viewing the accumulation of resources as a measure of accomplishment. This sense of community responsibility and integration is a reflection of a much larger sea of social change.

What is Your Personal Legacy?

What is your legacy? What do you wish to leave behind as your mark and contribution to the world? At some level, through your day-to-day actions, you are answering this question, whether in the areas of work or community, family or friends. You may be living the answer deliberately with purpose and focus, or perhaps you are answering this question more subtlety.

Legacy depends on leadership, which means the leadership in and of your life. This refers to your character and ethics, as well as your ability to influence, motivate and be an inspiration to others. Most importantly, you should be willing to take a hard look at how well you are doing at being that leader. Philanthropy really is about leadership, which requires self exploration and a great deal of courage.

This perspective of giving allows us the perfect opportunity for renewal. Giving brings a renewed sense of energy and focus to our lives. Making the commitment to be a heart-centered leader who is committed to giving is an excellent way to start your legacy. I invite you to take a look at your life: the past, present and future. When dealing with the past, look at those who have contributed to who you are today. What are the key lessons? Then ask yourself, who am I today and what impact am I having on the lives of others? This reflection will naturally lead you to the future. What do I want my legacy to be? When all is said and done, what will I be remembered for?

Why Global Alliance for Africa?   

I am attracted to this organization for several key reasons. Over the years I have found that the people and children in East Africa are very willing to grasp opportunities and utilize them to the fullest potential. They also seem to be the most vulnerable to adversarial influences, such as, disease, hunger and tremendous loss. The world’s needs are overwhelming and in this situation, I believe we can make a significant difference in the lives of many in Africa.

Global Alliance for Africa (GAA), www.globalallianceafrica.org , partners with local African NGOs (Non Government Organizations), religious institutions and community-based organizations to design and implement innovative, economic-strengthening programs. The goal is to enable communities and households to provide sustainable care and support for orphans and other vulnerable children affected by HIV/AIDS.

The organization’s model of development helps households and communities become self reliant and build the capacities to provide orphans and at-risk children with shelter, education, healthcare, food, security, psycho-social supports and legal services.

I invite you to listen to Stephen Lewis, former Special Envoy to UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan, and his presentation at GAA’s most recent gala (http://www.luc.edu/africa/lewis.htm), where he served as the keynote speaker. Mr. Lewis addressed the Millennium Commitment made in 2005, a promise developed countries have made to many African countries that they would fulfill by the year 2015, and how the former is failing on this commitment across all levels to reach any of those 8 commitments made by the G-8 countries.

A second major reason why GAA has captured my energies is they are in the initial stages of developing a hospitality school in Tanzania. The hospitality industry is the number one business in East Africa.

The initial curriculum for the Tanzanian school will provide basic training and development in the areas of housekeeping, operations, bookkeeping and the culinary arts. To assist in this development, key supporters have already made a powerful connection with the Fairmont in Kenya, which desperately needs talent in the back of the house. We are building alliances with Chicago’s Kendall College to assist with the curriculum and have also enlisted the housekeeping expertise of Julie Hellyer, executive director of housekeeping, Trump International Hotel & Tower, Chicago, to guide us in this discipline and other key areas.

I invite you or your company to consider contributing to this organization and its most important initiatives. There are many ways you can become involved with the Global Alliance for Africa. Visit its website www.globalallianceafrica.org for ideas and information. Remember, legacy depends on leadership and action, and it is a deep privilege to give. Thank you!

Deborah Hall-Kayler
President
Hall & Associates, Ltd.

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