Unleashing philanthropy - the case for establishing an Ambassador for Philanthropy in countries Worldwide
Across the world, philanthropy is a promising force for good, channeling resources from the successful and wealthy to invest in charities, community groups and social enterprises to benefit others, from local needs to international crises.
Yet the potential for philanthropy remains significantly unfulfilled, held back by many factors, from tax regulations and bureaucratic rules to the lack of a giving culture and the limited number of donor role models able to influence others by being willing to discuss why and how they contribute.
The situation for giving and charity is different in every country, and each government that wishes to unleash philanthropy needs to consider how to achieve the essential changes in behavior and attitudes, while ensuring that the legislative context is conducive to philanthropy.
An excellent example of efforts to foster generous giving can be found in Britain, where the government of appointed Dame Stephanie Shirley, a successful tech entrepreneur who has dedicated much of her life and her wealth to advancing strategic giving, as the country's founding – and the world’s first ever -- Ambassador for Philanthropy.
Using the platform of this honorary and unpaid position, Dame Stephanie has
- Reached out to her fellow philanthropists to offer them a voice
- Encouraged researchers to study this vital sector
- Created a new network for donors
- Launched events to highlight the need for giving, and
- Begun examining the simple legal and taxation changes that could attract extra billions to meet needs
In giving philanthropists a voice, Dame Stephanie has even encouraged the supposedly reserved British to discuss their money and how they are putting it to good use. Click here see UK philanthropists telling why and how they give via video.
Now, in partnership with the British Council, the Ambassadors For Philanthropy will be holding a two-day Global Summit, in March 2012, with Invitations going out to;
- Countries (All)
- Philanthropists (400 or more)
- Philanthropy Leaders (Selected Members of Ambassadors For Philanthropy)
