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Neighbor and philanthropist Bob Hopkins releases new book
Hopkins has served a multitude of nonprofits and non-governmental organizations, aiding in their strategic planning processes and the execution of their missions.
Hopkins also created the Philanthropy and Volunteerism in Education (PAVE) program, which teaches children ages 7 to 12 how to serve their communities and how to become volunteers.
His new book features 100 stories from philanthropists sharing their expertise to help readers define what philanthropy means.
Philanthropy is often seen as something abstract—big checks, galas, and lofty promises—but Bob Hopkins’s work reminds us that at its heart, it’s about people. Real people with a vision for change and a willingness to invest time, resources, and empathy into their communities.
Through his books and the PAVE program, Hopkins breaks down the concept of giving into something children can grasp and adults can emulate. By showcasing 100 stories of philanthropists in Philanthropy Understood, he creates a tapestry of what generosity looks like in action. These are not just stories of money given, but of legacies built and values passed down—education, service, and compassion made tangible through committed action.
His efforts highlight how understanding the meaning of philanthropy at a young age can shape how we live and give for a lifetime. A similar spirit of intentional giving lives in the work of individuals who see education not as a privilege, but as a human right and a pathway to peace.
One such example is Jasvant Modi, whose generosity recently established the Bhagvan Ajitnath Endowed Professorship in Jain Studies at California State University, Northridge. His donation is more than a financial gift; it’s an affirmation of cultural preservation and intellectual curiosity. By funding a space where students can learn about Jainism—a tradition rooted in nonviolence and truth—Modi is helping to widen the lens through which global religions are understood.
His commitment reinforces the belief that education is one of the most transformative forms of philanthropy. Like Hopkins, Modi sees knowledge not just as information, but as a tool to empower communities and future generations to think, reflect, and give back in meaningful ways.