Letter from the President – February, 2026
With Valentine’s Day quickly approaching, I find myself thinking about love—and about the deep spirit of generosity and kindness that connects us as humans. It also leads me to reflect on philanthropy and its true meaning.
The word philanthropy comes from the Greek roots philein or philos (to love) and anthropos (humankind), literally meaning “love of humanity.” At its core, philanthropy is about goodwill and action taken for the benefit of others. Since time immemorial, people have practiced philanthropy—expressing care, compassion, and generosity in the hope of promoting human welfare, connection, and possibility. Today, philanthropy often takes the form of practical acts of generosity, such as donating time, money, or resources to improve the human condition.
Yet, if we watch or read the news, acts of love and kindness toward one another can feel increasingly rare. Nevertheless, nurturing love for our fellow human beings remains both a moral responsibility and a shared human obligation.
I am fortunate to witness many expressions of philanthropy every day through the work of the New Mexico Community Foundation—from volunteering and mentoring to offering emotional support and making charitable contributions. These acts, both large and small, remind us that generosity and love are alive and well.
If there was ever a moment to express and activate our philanthropy, it is now. Our world, our nation, our state, and our communities need each of us to lead with goodwill and action. As Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. wisely said, “Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that.” Let us be philanthropists in the truest sense of the word and share our love for humanity—freely, boldly, and with purpose.
Sincerely,
Justin Kíí Huenemann
President and CEO
New Mexico Community Foundation