The occasion of the anniversary of Andrew Carnegie's transfer of wealth from business to philanthropy provides an opportunity to reflect on Carnegie's role in philanthropy and philanthropy's role, responsibilities, and challenges in the nation. Citizen philanthropy has been an important constituent of participatory democracy in the United States, and knowledge of the role of U.S. philanthropy gives a better understanding of the critical importance of public-private partnerships and citizen participation. Today, philanthropy is woven almost invisibly into the cultural fabric of the country. There are many individual wealthy donors, but what really makes U.S. philanthropy triumphant is its grassroots nature. Whether rich or poor, most Americans participate in philanthropy through volunteering time and money to a wide variety of causes. As the United States debates issues about wealth and inheritance, one hopes that public officials will act in the context of a full understanding of the tradition of U.S. philanthropy and its benevolent impact on society. A final concern is the need to reach out to the world at large. The United States cannot remain an island of prosperity in an ocean of scarcity. It is necessary to remember that while charity begins at home, it does not stay at home. (SLD)