Philanthrocapitalism and you

When Bill and Melinda Gates decided it was time to give away a large part of their fortune, they paved the way for a new kind of philanthropy on a quite massive scale.

Of course there have always been wealthy individuals who have sought to leave a valuable legacy to society, hoping to change it for the better. However what Matthew Bishop describes as ‘philanthrocapitalism’ is a very targeted and accountable approach to giving. Bill Gates, Bill Clinton, Warren Buffet and numerous others believe that business disciplines (which helped to create such huge wealth in the first place) are the most effective way of bringing about the transformational social change needed in many developing nations.

Does this mean that you can forget about your own role as a potential philanthropist?

The answer must be a resounding ‘No’ but it does raise the bar when it comes to effective giving.

In pure monetary terms of course the philanthrocapitalists are able to make macro level changes. But money has only ever been part of the solution.

Use your skills

Businesses and groups of private individuals have valuable skills and specialist knowledge that can be used for the benefit of others. Training, accountancy, computer literacy, sales and marketing, agriculture, medical disciplines...the list is almost endless. Without these abilities as catalysts, our experience shows capital alone may fail to bring about lasting change.

Talk to Truestone about organising these talents within your business and giving them to a cause you believe could benefit.

We will help you mobilise your resources and provide an incredible learning and development experience for everyone who is involved.

Contact neil.sandy@truestone.co.uk  or call 020 7488 7110.