A philanthropist is a person who empathizes with the poor and needy. He is someone who makes donations in cash or kind for a good cause. It is not necessary to be rich to be a philanthropist. One can donate his time, skill, or talent for the betterment of others. Some people establish private organizations that help with philanthropic endeavors.

A philanthropist aims at increasing the quality of life. Charity and philanthropy are different things. Charity eases the pain, while philanthropy attacks the root cause of the problem. James Velissaris is a person who has managed to keep the philanthropist in him alive even after being professionally successful. The following points play a vital role in the making of a philanthropist:

Contribution of parents in shaping a person: James Velissaris has always given credit to his mother for teaching humility, confidence, and faith. A person is given shape in his childhood. The difference between good and evil is taught to the child by the parents. A philanthropist is not born but created. The child has to be taught to be sensitive towards the need of others, they should be taught to share things with others.

Knowing the importance of a good education: James Velissaris was blessed with good parents who provided him with all the necessities. James was a good student and excelled in whatever he did. He was a local football star in his hometown. He understood that it is necessary to have access to good education. When James grew up, he wanted to help children by allowing them to study and excel in their respective fields.

Having money or time at our disposal: Anybody can be a philanthropist. It is not necessary to have large amounts of money to be a philanthropist. One can donate their time by volunteering in schools, hospitals, etc. He can make use of a skill he has and passes it on to others. He can teach a child how to play the piano, or art, or some kind of vocation that will help in the overall development of the other person.

Being aware of the needs of society: People should not turn a blind eye to the situation of the society that we live in. One should be aware of all the evils and the problems prevalent in society. Steps should be taken to do away with the evil and improve the quality of living and education of people from the society. One should be empathetic to be able to help society as a whole.

James Velissaris received several scholarships and worked shifts at the university to pay for his fees. He was aware that there are people who cannot afford to study even though they are talented and smart. He understood the need to give something back to the society which saw him as a football star. With being a star comes with the responsibility of doing something good for society. James Velissaris gave much more to society than he took from it.