benefactor

A benefactor is someone who helps another person or organization without expecting anything in return. They might donate money, volunteer their time, or provide support in some other way.

When we talk about a benefactor, we often think of someone who has given us something important at some point in our lives. This could be a wealthy relative who paid for our education, a kind neighbor who watched our kids while we were away, or even a stranger who anonymously donated to a charity that helped us. In general, the term is used to acknowledge and thank someone who has made a positive impact on our life or community.