The Giving Pledge – UK Follows US Lead
Posted on November 1, 2011
The news that three of Britain’s wealthiest business people are join the Giving Pledge set up by Bill Gates and Warren Buffet, has pushed the subject of ‘Philanthrocapitalism’ into the headlines. |
It’s believed the Giving Pledge has potentially raised more than a hundred billion dollars already in the United States, garnered from 38 American billionaires giving at least half their fortunes away. It’s being seen as another milestone in the resurgence of philanthropy. With cuts in funding, cultural institutions are of course watching with interest. View Pledge List
The Giving Pledge invites the wealthiest individuals and families in America to commit to giving the majority of their wealth to the philanthropic causes and charitable organizations of their choice either during their lifetime or after their death. Each person who chooses to pledge makes this statement publicly, along with a letter explaining their decision to pledge and then at an annual event, those who take the pledge will come together to share ideas and learn from each other. |
The Pledge is seen as a moral commitment to give, not a legal contract. It does not involve pooling money or supporting a particular set of causes or organizations.
The organisation says it’s inspired by the generosity of millions of Americans, striving to make the world a better place. |
The Giving Pledge Foundation |
Read more in the Guardian newspaper |
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