This week a South African man, Patrice Motsepe, promised to give half of his fortune to charity. A foundation called The Giving Pledge has challenged the "wealthiest individuals and families in America ... to give the majority of their wealth to philanthropy." The program allows the individuals to choose the charities they donate to. Obviously this program is expanding and Motespe, who is the first billionaire in Africa, represents the first African to make The Pledge.
He announced that he would be giving his wealth to The Motsepe Foundation. This organization was established 10 years ago by Motsepe and his wife, during which time they have been working to "fight poverty and improve the social and economic conditions of the poor, unemployed and marginalized persons and communities." They hope that their contribution will help the poor, as he believes "that it is important for successful South Africans to help the less fortunate." I think all those who took the pledge, including Mr. Motsepe, are such admirable people for seeing outside of themselves and being willing to give to those who are in need.
It's hard to imagine people doing this, so to see it here is amazing and a great example to others out there to do the same.
ReplyDeleteIt's good to see more of this kind of thing happening in the world.
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