Connecting people with purpose through philanthropy.
Meet Maxine.
She’s here to teach us a thing or two about JOY! Watch video to learn more.
Click here to visit the Maxine’s Joy page.
Click here for appearances.
A philanthropic project—all funds donated to Alzheimer’s-causes.
Philanthropy translates to “love of humanity.”
Everyone has the potential and capacity to give of themselves in some way to love and serve one another. Contrary to popular belief, philanthropist is not a title reserved only for the wealthy.
The Uncommon Philanthropist unleashes the inner philanthropist in us all and the transformative experience of “let go” to give and serve people and causes in need.
Check Out Our New Show
The Uncommon Philanthropist is available on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts and your favorite podcast platforms.
Subscribe, share and comment and help build the UP Community!
Check Out the Latest Conversations on UP
Click here to visit the UP blog for episode links.
Let’s show what’s possible when we unite and mobilize as Uncommon Philanthropists.
Don’t miss this conversation with Rena Olsen, our host and founder, and Erin Peterson of Scout Stories.

The Uncommon Philanthropist mobilizes people to begin their own journey of generosity through education, awareness, community building, giving solutions and stories that inspire philanthropic thinking, action and results.
Join the UP Community: Click here to sign up for occasional email updates.
United, informed and mobilized as Uncommon Philanthropists (UPs), we can make a difference in the world while improving our own lives. Let go! and join the UP movement today.
Photo of the blessing of Eliawinga, a widow, and her new home in Tanzania. We cried, we cheered, we danced, and drank soda in celebration. Special thanks to Ubora Tanzania for this moment and allowing the use of these photos. And to photographer Tim Pearson, an UP himself and founder of the nonprofit Just a Sling and a Stone.
How exactly do we build an army of Uncommon Philanthropists (UPs)?
Rena Olsen is the host and creator of Uncommon Philanthropist.
One UP at a time through content curated to inspire love of humanity and good in the world shared on the Uncommon Philanthropist (UP) Platform that includes:
Podcast
YouTube Channel
Social Media
Publications: Blog, Newsletter, Books
Guest Speaking, Events & Appearances
Calling all servant leaders!
We are searching for people and organizations who can inform and inspire others to give of themselves as uncommon philanthropists and to showcase the work of nonprofits. Take a moment and complete an UP form and tell us about yourself. All submissions will be reviewed carefully for consideration for interviews and spotlights on the Uncommon Philanthropist.
Pictured above with Rena is Elizabeth Burdette, a Philanthropic Advisor and founder of Bloom ATL, a giving circle. Elizabeth is both an UP and Expert. Learn more about Elizabeth’s inspiring story on Uncommon Philanthropist; click here to watch on YouTube.
Interested in sharing your story on Uncommon Philanthropist? Choose from one of the three options below and complete the form. Don’t forget to join our email list and help spread the word about UP to the world!
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To the everyday people already making an impact in the world by serving others, you are an Uncommon Philanthropist.
Click here to share your story or to let us know about an UP.
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To the experts who advise, inform and inspire about philanthropy, generous giving, servant leadership, charitable causes, volunteering and everything in between, please introduce yourself for a possible guest appearance on UP.
Click here to complete a brief form.
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To our non profit friends…we see the great work you are doing with limited resources and significant demands. We want to give you a place to share your story and for the chance to engage with UPs.
Click here and tell us more your organization.