Picture a philanthropist. What comes to mind? A conscience-salving hedge-fund tycoon in Manhattan? An elderly millionaire, looking to distribute his fortune? An A-list actress, adopting third-world children? What about your next-door neighbour?

Although the Gates, Buffetts, Bonos and Jolies of our time may be grabbing headlines with their largesse, a spurt in middle-class wealth through entrepreneurship, combined with greater access to philanthropic vehicles, has engaged a new breed of aspirational givers.