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Publications & Articles Sharmila Rao Thakkar Publications & Articles Sharmila Rao Thakkar

Giving Is Good for You: How and Why Philanthropy Benefits the Donor

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India Philanthropy Alliance · March 2026 · Essay

A growing body of research shows that generosity — practiced intentionally and consistently — measurably strengthens the emotional, social, physical, and professional well-being of the giver. In this piece I reflect on the science and the lived experience behind giving, and how generosity not only supports communities but enriches the lives of those who practice it.

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Charting the Constellation of Advisors: Where Do Philanthropists Get Expert Advice?

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Gates Foundation Philanthropic Partnerships Team + Geneva Global · August 2025 · White Paper

Where do the world’s wealthiest donors get expert advice? This white paper goes inside the philanthropy-advising market guiding an estimated $17 trillion in ultra-high-net-worth giving — mapping the constellation of experts who help donors define their mission and chart their legacy. I was proud to contribute.

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Indian American Philanthropy: A Tradition of Seeding Change and Inspiring Giving

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National Center for Family Philanthropy · August 2023 · Article

Indian Americans have a long and thriving philanthropic tradition — one the current and next generation continue to carry forward. This piece explores the trends and motivations behind Indian American giving, and the story of the first-ever India Giving Day (March 2, 2023), now an annual event.

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The Value of a Borough Disaster Preparedness Coalition in Bridging Gaps

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Frontline (COF Foundation) · October 2021 · Article

How Staten Island’s nonprofit COAD coalition met community needs through COVID-19.

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Lessons Learned from the Pandemic: How Funders Can Be More Supportive Partners

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Candid · January 2021 · Article

Practical reflections for funders wanting to better support communities in crisis.

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On Relationships: Recalling the Heart & Mind of Philanthropy

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Foundant · October 2018 · Article

Respect, empathy, and trust as the foundation of lasting funder–grantee relationships.

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South Asia and Giving Back: Your Guide to Getting Started

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Good Indian Girl & South Asian Philanthropy Project · October 2017 · Guide

How do you give well when donating back to South Asia? This practical guide offers a starting point for diaspora donors planning year-end gifts or mapping where to focus their giving in the year ahead.

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How Family Foundations Can Pass on the Philanthropy Flame to the Next Generation

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The Wall Street Journal · April 2015 · Feature

Many family foundations are built to last indefinitely — but “indefinitely” arrives fast if the next generation isn’t engaged. Featured in the Wall Street Journal, this piece looks at how aging founders can pass the reins to children and grandchildren without losing the mission.

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Families Giving Back Together — the Case for Starting Now

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Allow Good & South Asian Philanthropy Project · February 2014 · Blog

Why families should give together, and how to start sooner than year-end.

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A Brown Paper: The Health of South Asians in the United States

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South Asian Public Health Association · 2002 · Publication

Co-authored the Women’s Health section and edited this first-of-its-kind report on South Asian American health.

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