· Giving: how each of us can change the world ·
I recently read a copy of Bill Clinton's book Giving. He covers the act of giving thoroughly: the ways in which people can give, successful programs that have attracted donations, and generous givers.
"Bill" (can I call him that? it feels a bit disrespectful) intersperses examples of giving with his own experiences. One little anecdote he tells is that he and his wife give their nephews some money each month, providing they donate 25% of it to good causes and then update Bill and Hillary on how they've spent their donation. I found this little tale fascinating (and of course Bill tells it much better than I do) :)
One of the most powerful chapters in the book is the final one ("How much you should give and why?") where Bill suggests that together we could change the world if each of us was to give what we can. While few people have the spending power of Warren Buffett (famous for his investment successes) who intends to give away over 95% of his fortune, if each of us donated 1% of our annual income we could seriously change the world. For a person on the average Australian wage, say $50,000 to make the maths easy, this is only $500 a year. A not-for-profit organisation could achieve a lot with $500 :)
Another point Bill makes that I find interesting are his suggestions for why people don't give:
They don't believe what they could do would make a difference, either because their resources are limited or they're convinced efforts to change other people's lives and conditions are futile. They don't feel morally obligated to give. No one has ever asked them to do so. And they believe they'll enjoy life more if they keep their money and time for themselves and their families.
Given my recent posts on engagement and participation, I think this deserves more thought [puts thinking cap on].
Regardless of what you think about Bill Clinton, I suggest you read this book as I found it both inspiring and useful.
Monday January 7, 2008
Categories: Book-Review
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