John F. Kennedy served in the House, the Senate and the White House...

 

Yet he reportedly kept none of the salary he earned from public office. 
Kennedy came from a wealthy family and understood that most elected officials depended on their government salaries to support themselves.
He was fortunate enough not to.
So when he entered Congress in 1947, he began donating his federal pay to charitable causes.
He continued that practice as a senator.
And when he became the 35th President of the United States, nothing changed.
His presidential salary was $100,000 a year, an amount worth roughly more than $1 million today.
He donated it rather than adding it to his personal wealth. 
In 1961, his first year in office, Kennedy received approximately $94,583 because his term began on January 20.
Contemporary reports said the money was divided among six charities.
Organizations connected to his giving reportedly included the United Negro College Fund, the Boy Scouts, the Girl Scouts and the Federation of Jewish Philanthropies.
The donations supported education, young people and communities that needed opportunities. 
What makes the story even more remarkable is how little Kennedy spoke about it publicly.
There were no regular speeches celebrating his generosity.
No cameras following every donation.
According to archivists, the White House confirmed the practice when journalists asked about it, but Kennedy does not appear to have made it part of his public image.
He simply continued doing what he had done since entering government.
Kennedy was able to make that choice because he already had considerable financial security.
But that does not make the decision meaningless.
He could have kept every paycheck legally.
Instead, he decided that money earned through public service could do more good in the hands of organizations helping others.
Some acts of generosity are designed to be noticed.
Others happen quietly, without demanding applause. 
For years, John F. Kennedy held some of the most powerful positions in the country...
And treated the salary attached to them as another opportunity to serve.
Do you think acts of generosity become more meaningful when they are done quietly, without seeking public recognition?