What Do Students Say?

In the beginning of the semester, I would have never imagined the level of complexity that encompasses the nonprofit sector. At first glance, I held onto the belief that those who were involved with the nonprofit sector were individuals who operated on very small budgets, were relatively unknown, and were constantly struggling to even survive during these difficult economic times. The nonprofit sector is so much more than that, and I am thankful to have been made aware of these intricacies that affect every facet of society on a daily basis. I always knew about the demand for services but have a much more informed perspective of how to approach an ongoing issue and achieve a desired result. I learned that there are a myriad of organizations who have dedicated themselves to improving and empowering disadvantaged citizens of Newark and I am much more optimistic for what the future holds as a result.

- Public and Nonprofit Administration major

(Hispanic/Latino, Male, Junior)

It was my first experience in a class with such practical purpose, that would provide me with professional skills in raising funds for nonprofit organizations. In addition, this project would guide me in prioritizing available resources for communities in much need for assistance.

- Social Work major

(African American/Black, Female, Junior)

I really appreciated the fact that this project made us open our eyes to the real social problems occurring right in our own backyard. There are so many people that need help or assistance or just resources to help them through their daily lives.

- Public and Nonprofit Administration major

(Asian, Female, Senior)

What I appreciated most about the project experience was being able to get in contact with the CEO/Founder of the organization we chose. Oftentimes students are not given the opportunity to directly impact an organization and being that we were able to do just that this semester made it very insightful and worthwhile.

- Public and Nonprofit Administration major

(Hispanic/Latino, Male, Junior)

The very first day of school when the Philanthropy project was introduced I was excited about the opportunity and I went to visit and talk with the CEO of the HUBB. I knew of their struggles to stay alive day to day however on this day we spoke about the eviction notice that he received to close their doors in three days. I wrote to some public officials asking them to help him on behalf of the children that are provided needed services via the HUBB. Becoming aware of the social issues within my communities and of this great city I am now charged by spirit to do more. I met with two other non-profit organizers to find that they are here functioning under our noses however ignored among most, heartbreaking to say the least. I realize that change starts with me so my pledge is to be the change that I wish to see in the world.

- Public and Nonprofit Administration major

(African American/Black, Female, Junior)

Since I attended this class, I began to volunteer once a week and I am more willing to help others. I feel that even though I may contribute little for the community, if I continue to do that, I can influence the community positively. With knowing more professional knowledge, I am more willing to use this knowledge in my real volunteering activities and I feel really good!

- Public and Nonprofit Administration major

(Asian, Female, Sophomore)

This opportunity set off a spark inside me. I felt a sense of power. Granted with this task and given a voice to make a real contribution has motivated me to do more. I couldn't be more grateful for allowing me to see real work by real people coming together to help with social problems. For my project, I interviewed someone who is in the trenches every day helping. All it took was a phone call to make a difference in everyday lives.

- MPA Program

(Hispanic/Latino, Male, Graduate Student)

Being able to give, even though it was not my own money, was an amazing feeling. That money could potentially change people's lives, and that is priceless. It definitely made me think about doing my own form of philanthropy in the future.

- Nursing major

(Hispanic/Latino, Male, Sophomore)

I have learned a great deal in this course, and others, about Newark’s pressing issues. I am more concerned with the reasons why Newark has these issues, and I have realized that they stem from deeply rooted issues in their history. Things that have contributed to the city's revitalization process have been heavily influenced by NPOs and many individual philanthropists that have a larger vision.

- Public and Nonprofit Administration major

(Hispanic/Latino, Male, Junior)

The most valuable thing I took away from the class was there are multiple ways to be philanthropic. The term philanthropy has a very narrow meaning, and this course expanded it.

- Double major: Public and Nonprofit Administration, and History

(White, Male, Senior)

[What I most appreciated about this course was] the connection to real problems. I haven't felt that since Sept. 2009 when I was Honorably Discharged from the U.S. Navy.

- MPA Program

(Hispanic/Latino, Male, Graduate Student)

What impresses me most is that someone involved in philanthropic activities is not necessarily a rich person. Everyone can make a difference to this world. We, as public administrators, have to take the responsibility to maximize the advantages of the nonprofit sector, which can help build a better, warmer society.

- Public and Nonprofit Administration major

(Asian, Female, Junior)

In my mind, philanthropy is to devote my time and resources to help people in need. Philanthropy is important because it reflects my values. It is a journey of the soul, I can get happiness from philanthropy and it brings great positive energy to my life and work.

- Public and Nonprofit Administration major

(Asian, Male, Junior)

I like that we were able to choose an organization and social issue. This project gave us a lot of freedom. I also liked that we were able to be directly in philanthropy by being able to actually donate money to an organization.

- Public and Nonprofit Administration major

(African American/Black, Female, Sophomore)

[I really enjoyed] the exploration of the nonprofit organization. That was the first time I got to know an organization deeply, including its mission, its authority, its achievement, and even the organization and design of its official website. That was amazing to get a chance to donate to an organization that I think is helpful.

- Public and Nonprofit Administration major

(Asian, Female, Junior)

1. The Greek philanthropos, meaning “man-loving” or “the love of humanity. •“Philos” for love •“Anthropos” for humankind was memorable to me. 2. You do not have to be wealthy to be a philanthropist: Charitable Giving (money) •Volunteering (time) •Goods and Material Items (things) 3. Social Issues vary dramatically, and emphasis/importance is profoundly idiosyncratic.

- Public and Nonprofit Administration major

(African American/Black, Female, Senior)

I learned that anyone can be a philanthropist! I had in my mind before this class that only the rich can do philanthropy, but I happily stand corrected. It is good to know I can be the start of a change.

- Public and Nonprofit Administration major

(African American/Black, Female, Senior)

I have learned from this semester about different social problems such as food insecurity, homelessness and unemployment/employment and etc. Going through this pandemic has only taught me that this world is going through a financial struggle, a crisis that’s left people working from home or even laid off and have to file for unemployment. I learned that today a lot of homeless people are outside and don’t have anywhere to go. Learning different social problems got me interested in helping others and getting myself working for a nonprofit organization to help the people in the community. However, some nonprofits have financial difficulties but have helped millions of people. And that’s why most nonprofits are still standing today. I learned from this semester that most people in the world are philanthropists in their own natural way. And usually, a philanthropist does not always have to give money but help others that are in need by donating clothes, food, or building housing/shelters for people who are homeless or going through a financial situation.

- Public and Nonprofit Administration major

(African American/Black, Female, Junior)

It was fantastic to know that Rutgers isn't just sitting here in Newark and reaping the benefits but actually providing for the well-being and development of the city.

- Public and Nonprofit Administration major

(African American/Black, Male, Sophomore)