Surprising Lessons on Charity from Ty Cobb

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Baseball teaches many life lessons that embody American values.

Now, we are moving into the expanded postseason in 2022. Another lesson in life: Accept change! Let’s look at an unexpected lesson from the sport: Be a better charity giver.

Did You Know that Ty Cobb, a Royston, Georgia, native who is well-known as a hard-charging athlete and person in general, had a deep passion for philanthropy during his later years?

I was unaware of this until I read Ty Cobb: “An Unusual Philanthropist”. It gave me some helpful tips for donors today.

Play Your Position

Ty Cobb is a baseball player who is a specialist in one position.

His goal was to help more people than just get them through college. ROTC, Band, Chorus, and any other activity related to the activity.

It’s vogue among today’s philanthropy-watchers to tell donors how they should and shouldn’t target their donations. Givers each have their own goals and areas of expertise. They should be able to fulfill their chosen role.

Cobb foundation grants are subject to restrictions which will likely limit the number of applicants. Cobb was able to design a program that was consistent with his vision.

Create a Game Plan

Cobb was a meticulous and diligent person. He made philanthropy a priority after he had lost his parents. He spent two years visiting hospitals around the country before deciding the best way to gift the gift.

He had proven his talents in one area, and now he wanted to make something more permanent. Mary Moran is the author of Mary Moran’s book.

He consulted Dr. Daniel Elkins for some time. Elkins is Emory University School of Medicine’s Professor of Medicine and Head of the Department of Surgery. ”

The foundation adheres to strict guidelines set by experts. These are the hallmarks of a thoughtful, intentional game plan.

Rely Upon Your Teammates

Cobb turned to education experts for guidance and support when he started his foundation. The same experts are available to you to help define your charitable legacy.

This article is for financial planners. It discusses “the importance of having values-based conversations about Philanthropic Giving” between clients, planners, and trust and estate attorneys.

DonorsTrust, a charity I manage, can give you ideas to help you make a lasting legacy. The same thing happens with donor-advised funds.

Everybody Can Give

Baseball historians may laugh at Ty Cobb’s dependence on his teammates. He worked hard and made few friends despite his Hall of Fame success.

However, I was reminded of Karl Zinsmeister’s Almanac of American Philanthropy. In it, he stated that “here’s the fascinating secret of Philanthropy…you don’t need to be an Angel in order to participate.”

Although it is possible to argue whether Cobb was a saint or not, it is clear that Cobb was strategic in leaving his charitable legacy.