Nancy Rogers - Revealed
Philanthropic powerhouse and style icon
Nancy Rogers, philanthropic powerhouse and style icon, is an Aspen treasure. Along with her husband, Richard, executive chairman of Mary Kay Inc., she has embraced everything that makes our town special. Here, she discusses the importance of giving, and gives a tour of her favorite things.
What is the first charity/nonprofit you can remember supporting?
NR: I was a Girl Scout as a child. Our troop held food and clothing drives for the hungry and homeless. We also visited hospitals and homes for the elderly. These experiences left lasting impressions on me.
You are generous to many causes. Which cause do you feel most passionately about now?
NR: Curing any and every form of cancer. I have lost too many family members and friends to variations of this horrible disease. I sincerely doubt there’s even one person whose life hasn’t been personally affected by, or had a loved one affected by, some form of cancer.
What do you get out of your giving?
NR: Truly, pure joy. I believe that to give of yourself—your time, talent or money—to help make a positive impact on the lives of others and your community is the greatest gift you can give your soul. There have been so many lives that have touched mine through charitable giving and have helped to make me a better, more compassionate and grateful person.
Have you ever regretted supporting a charity?
NR: I’ve never regretted supporting a great cause, but I have made mistakes about choosing the right charitable organization. I’ve learned to research the organizations quite a bit more carefully now. I check out their financials to make sure that nearly all of the money contributed actually goes to the charitable work. I meet with a member of their board of directors, interview their director and staff and, if needed, do a site visit.
How have you seen attitudes towards giving to charities change in your lifetime, especially during the recession of the past two years?
NR: I think society as a whole has become more aware of the need to give back. Parents, teachers, and coaches seem to be taking on a larger role in mentoring children on the necessity of giving. Charity begins at home. With the rough economy, many families and individuals are finding themselves in need. They are struggling to keep a roof over their heads and food on the table and often find themselves supporting family members in the same situation. We are seeing a marked rise in domestic violence and in the abandonment and abuse of animals. If you have the time to volunteer or the financial means to help those less fortunate, it is your civic responsibility to get involved. Make the choice to make a difference.
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