Over 1,700 volunteers donated 48 weeks of their time in 3 days | Di-Ve - Malta News Portal

Over 1,700 volunteers donated 48 weeks of their time in 3 days | Di-Ve - Malta News Portal: "FareShare wants to thank volunteers who helped the charity collect a record number of food donations in Tesco stores across the UK for people in need.
From 27th to 29th November 1,787 volunteers volunteered on behalf of FareShare during Tesco’s Neighbourhood Food Collection to help collect a record 4.7 million meals for people in poverty.  Tesco’s Neighbourhood Food Collection is the biggest national food drive to help people facing hunger with donations going to food redistribution charity FareShare and foodbank charity The Trussell Trust.

FareShare volunteers gave up over 8,000 hours of their time to complete over 2,600 volunteering shifts in Tesco stores nationwide. "



'via Blog this'

Salvation Army drops 17 places on charity reputation survey

Salvation Army drops 17 places on charity reputation survey: "One of Australia's best-known welfare organisations, the Salvation Army, has dropped 17 places from last year in the 2014 AMR Charity Reputation Index, a yearly survey which measures the overall reputation of the country's 40 largest charities ."



'via Blog this'

Pursuant Gives Back: Repairing Wells Through Global Aid Network - The Digital Drip

Pursuant Gives Back: Repairing Wells Through Global Aid Network - The Digital Drip: "Pursuant Gives Back: Repairing Wells Through Global Aid Network
At Pursuant, we’re no different than you. We are passionate about nonprofits, making a difference, and serving others. very year we look for ways to give back in practical and tangible ways.

This year we rallied together to raise money to repair five wells in Zimbabwe that serve 281 families. Pursuant decided to match employee donations three-to-one. s  As a result, more than 1,000 people will receive clean drinking water and a message of hope in 2015."



'via Blog this'

Holiday giving? Don't pick a charity by financial statements alone - Canada - CBC News

Holiday giving? Don't pick a charity by financial statements alone - Canada - CBC News: "Holiday giving? Don't pick a charity by financial statements alone"



'via Blog this'

Driving The Rockefeller Legacy In Asia | Wealth-X

Driving The Rockefeller Legacy In Asia | Wealth-X: " 
But although their name is ubiquitous in the US, the Rockefellers are less well-known for their extensive philanthropy in China, which dates as far back as the mid-nineteenth century."



'via Blog this'

Holiday Postings

Posting to the Resource Center blogs will be intermittent during the Holidays.

Holiday Notice: AFP IHQ and the AFP Foundation for Philanthropy will close at noon on Wednesday, Dec. 24, 2014.
- AFP IHQ will reopen on Monday, Jan. 5, 2015.
- The AFP Foundation will be open for one day during the holiday week on Dec. 29, 2014, then close again and reopen on Monday, Jan. 5, 2015. Gifts can be made at any time online or call Diane LaVigna at (518) 360-4736.

Why Two Nonprofits Plummet in Charity Reputation Survey - NPQ - Nonprofit Quarterly

Why Two Nonprofits Plummet in Charity Reputation Survey - NPQ - Nonprofit Quarterly: "Two of Australia’s most high-profile nonprofits saw their rankings on the 2014 AMR Charity Reputation Index plummet this year, one as a result of a scandal and the other as a result of stakeholder protests about its practices. The Salvation Army dropped the most precipitously, losing 17 places from last year from tenth place to 27th place, following allegations, with charges that were taken up by a royal commission inquiry, that some staff were involved in child sex abuse."



'via Blog this'

The year in fundraising: 2014 | Third Sector

The year in fundraising: 2014 | Third Sector: "The way in which the Institute of Fundraising works with the other major fundraising bodies was a hot topic in 2014, as were society lotteries.

In January, Third Sector revealed that the IoF had drawn up confidential plans to merge its membership with that of the Fundraising Standards Board. It was estimated that combining the fees of the two bodies would bring in an extra £30,000 annually."



'via Blog this'

Checkout Charity: Could You Give While You Pay? - DailyFinance

Checkout Charity: Could You Give While You Pay? - DailyFinance: "First, Samantha Kemp-Jackson started noticing something unusual at the local grocery store. Then it started happening to the Toronto mom of four at the department store. Then the liquor store. Then, pretty much everywhere else. She was getting hit up for a charitable donation at pretty much every cash register she encountered. And it was driving her bananas.
"



'via Blog this'

HMRC tax statistics suggest large rise in charitable giving

HMRC tax statistics suggest large rise in charitable giving: "Tax relief on giving is expected to rise by 11 per cent in the year to March 2015, suggesting a large increase in donation income, according to provisional figures published today by HM Revenue & Customs.

HMRC has published provisional figures for the year ending March 2015, showing it expects gift aid to rise from £1.07bn to £1.19bn. This follows three successive years in which the value of gift aid fell."



'via Blog this'

Why Encouraging Service and Philanthropy is Important in Europe - German Marshall Fund Blog

Why Encouraging Service and Philanthropy is Important in Europe - German Marshall Fund Blog: "Service and philanthropy are two areas that speak to the very core of the Marshall Plan, in which the United States pledged to provide support to Europe to rebuild after WWII. Of the many subject areas that were covered in our program in Europe as Marshall Memorial Fellows, social engagement spoke to my personal interests of assisting vulnerable members of communities."



'via Blog this'

Harper Government Encourages Canadians to Donate Generously This Holiday Season and Take Advantage of the First-Time Donor's Super Credit

Press Release

Harper Government Encourages Canadians to Donate Generously This Holiday Season and Take Advantage of the First-Time Donor's Super Credit:



'via Blog this'

Boys’ Brigade charity drive reaches out to 35,845 beneficiaries | TODAYonline

Boys’ Brigade charity drive reaches out to 35,845 beneficiaries | TODAYonline: "SINGAPORE – The Boys’ Brigade Share-a-Gift (BBSG) 2014 charity project has managed collect enough donation items to reach out to 35,845 beneficiaries in just under a month, announced the uniformed group at the closing ceremony today (Dec 17)"



'via Blog this'

Latin American Herald Tribune - Kenya Suspends Licenses of Some 500 NGOs, Some Tied to Terrorism

Latin American Herald Tribune - Kenya Suspends Licenses of Some 500 NGOs, Some Tied to Terrorism: "The Kenyan government announced on Tuesday it was suspending licenses and freezing the bank accounts of some 510 Non-Governmental Organizations, or NGOs; 15 of which have been accused of having ties to terrorist groups and money laundering.
"



'via Blog this'

Generosity our hallmark

Generosity our hallmark

Commission: ‘We share more data with other agencies than they share with us’ - Civil Society - Governance - News

Commission: ‘We share more data with other agencies than they share with us’ - Civil Society - Governance - News

NCVO: Trustees and senior staff 'should declare political activity' - Civil Society - Governance - News

NCVO: Trustees and senior staff 'should declare political activity' - Civil Society - Governance - News

World Giving Index 2014 | CAF America

World Giving Index 2014 | CAF America: "The 2014 World Giving Index

a publication of Charities Aid Foundation, our partner office in the UK

Click here to download the report.

Gain insight into the nature of giving around the world

The World Giving Index is designed to provide evidence-based insight into the scope and nature of giving around the world. In order to reflect a culturally diverse planet, the report looks at three aspects of giving behavior. The questions that feed the report are"



'via Blog this'

Media scrutiny of the charity sector in 2014

Media scrutiny of the charity sector in 2014: "Civil Society News is bringing you a festive countdown in the run up to Christmas. On the seventh day we look at some examples of the heightened media scrutiny that the sector has received this year.
The charity sector faced its fair share of criticism in 2014, with not all of it being entirely justified. In no particular order, we look at six of the most memorable examples."



'via Blog this'

Volunteering platform Do-it relaunches

Volunteering platform Do-it relaunches: "Online volunteering platform Do-it has been relaunched today by its new owner, the Do-it Trust, with more emphasis on sharing volunteering opportunities via social media.
Do-it was started by YouthNet in 2001 and was sold to a partnership involving volunteering bodies ivo.org, Believe.In, Blue Dot, Prospectus and Vivo."



'via Blog this'

Exclusive: ‘People Would Have Died’ in Britain Without Food Banks, Says Charity Head

Exclusive: ‘People Would Have Died’ in Britain Without Food Banks, Says Charity Head: "Interviewed as part of an in-depth look into the rise of food banks in Britain to be published in Newsweek’s European edition next week, Mould attacks coalition policy, saying that they had led to a sharp rise in the numbers of people dependent on food banks. "Our government has chosen a series of policies which have squeezed the incomes of the working poor,” he says.

Try Newsweek for only $1.25 per week "



'via Blog this'

The brilliant, quirky fundraising career of Professor Denny Young - 101fundraising

The brilliant, quirky fundraising career of Professor Denny Young - 101fundraising: "So when the Association of Fundraising Professionals Greater Toronto Area chapter – my chapter and the largest in the world – announced Denny Young as the 2014 Outstanding Fundraising Professional, 101fundraising congratulated and invited him as the guest on the first North American #101webinar. We broadcasted live from Toronto, Canada on December 1, 2014, less than a week after he received this award at a luncheon in front of 1,000 fundraisers and philanthropists. "



'via Blog this'

TD Bank backs expanded Toronto bike-share program in deal said to be worth more than $650K a year | National Post

TD Bank backs expanded Toronto bike-share program in deal said to be worth more than $650K a year | National Post: "Mayor John Tory pleaded with corporations, unions and non-profit organizations to “step up” and partner with the city on more programs as city officials revealed TD Bank as the major sponsor of the city’s bike-share operation."



'via Blog this'

TD Bank backs expanded Toronto bike-share program in deal said to be worth more than $650K a year | National Post

TD Bank backs expanded Toronto bike-share program in deal said to be worth more than $650K a year | National Post: "Mayor John Tory pleaded with corporations, unions and non-profit organizations to “step up” and partner with the city on more programs as city officials revealed TD Bank as the major sponsor of the city’s bike-share operation."



'via Blog this'

Six-month delay for 20 per cent tax on direct mail fundraising

Six-month delay for 20 per cent tax on direct mail fundraising: "Changes in the VAT rules around direct mail fundraising which would have cost the charity sector tens of millions of pounds a year will not now be introduced until April 2015, the Charity Tax Group has said.

Earlier this year, HM Revenue & Customs said that “single-sourcing” contracts for direct mail should be standard-rated for VAT, meaning that charities would have to pay an extra 20 per cent on printing and production. Charities and suppliers had previously believed these contracts should be zero-rated for VAT."



'via Blog this'

Lisa Nandy announces policies to grow volunteering under Labour government

Lisa Nandy announces policies to grow volunteering under Labour government: "Lisa Nandy, shadow minister for civil society, will promise a raft of measures to grow volunteering as she reveals the results of Labour’s consultation with the voluntary sector later today.
She is also planning measures to increase the freedom of voice in the sector, including scrapping changes to make it harder for charities to bring judicial reviews, gagging clauses in contracts, and measures in the Lobbying Act."



'via Blog this'

Top charity news stories of 2014: April to June

Top charity news stories of 2014: April to June: "Civil Society News is bringing you a festive countdown in the run up to Christmas. On the fourth day we look back at the ten most read news stories from April to June.
"



'via Blog this'

Scotland's independent schools pass charity test - Telegraph

Scotland's independent schools pass charity test - Telegraph: "Scotland's independent schools pass charity test
But the Office of the Scottish Charity Regulator (OSCR) warns them against "backsliding" and that they will continue to be subjected to higher scrutiny to ensure they provide enough public benefit."



'via Blog this'

Charity fatigue: 'Why I'm sick of Sir Bob Geldof and street chuggers' | Hull Daily Mail

Charity fatigue: 'Why I'm sick of Sir Bob Geldof and street chuggers' | Hull Daily Mail: "It would have been nicer if they'd given up some of their money as well but, oh no, that's for we little people to do.

Well, get stuffed Sir Swearword (Bob Geldof). I didn't buy it. You, and your army of puffed up, short-term celebrities are one of the reasons why I, and others, are getting more and more resistant to giving to charidee in general.

Another reason is the increased understanding that a huge proportion of any money that is pledged via chuggers (or charity-muggers) in the street is used to pay the fundraisers themselves."



'via Blog this'

Charity fatigue: 'Why I'm sick of Sir Bob Geldof and street chuggers' | Hull Daily Mail

Charity fatigue: 'Why I'm sick of Sir Bob Geldof and street chuggers' | Hull Daily Mail: "It would have been nicer if they'd given up some of their money as well but, oh no, that's for we little people to do.

Well, get stuffed Sir Swearword (Bob Geldof). I didn't buy it. You, and your army of puffed up, short-term celebrities are one of the reasons why I, and others, are getting more and more resistant to giving to charidee in general.

Another reason is the increased understanding that a huge proportion of any money that is pledged via chuggers (or charity-muggers) in the street is used to pay the fundraisers themselves."



'via Blog this'

Word search: Can you find our 'Most Influential' fundraising bigwigs?

Word search: Can you find our 'Most Influential' fundraising bigwigs?: "Fundraising Magazine’s annual Most Influential poll is one of the highlights of the year and on the third day of our festive countdown we’ve hidden 15 of this year’s power list in a word search."



'via Blog this'

Cancer Research UK launches its first crowdfunding campaign

Cancer Research UK launches its first crowdfunding campaign: "Cancer Research UK is hoping raise £190,000 this week from its first crowdfunding campaign to pay for three research projects.

The charity has listed three projects on IndieGoGo, a specialist crowdfunding donations website, with a deadline of midnight on 11 December 2014. If the projects do not receive enough support donations will be returned."



'via Blog this'

Osborne announces VAT refunds for hospice charities | New rule on vulnerable donors | Power to ban trustees 'too broad' | Third Sector

Osborne announces VAT refunds for hospice charities | New rule on vulnerable donors | Power to ban trustees 'too broad' | Third Sector: "VAT refunds for hospices, search and rescue and air ambulance charities, and changes to the investment limits for social investment tax relief were among the announcements made in the Chancellor's Autumn Statement this week. George Osborne also announced that the government will increase the amount an organisation can take under the social investment tax relief scheme to £5m a year, up to a lifetime maximum of £15m.

Fundraisers should not accept donations from people who appear unable to make a proper decision, according to a new rule in the Institute of Fundraising's Code of Fundraising Practice. The Fundraising Standards Board asked the IoF to consider including advice on vulnerable donors in the code after adjudication in April following a complaint against the veterinary charity PDSA, which had accepted several large donations from a woman with schizophrenia."



'via Blog this'

Global Campaign for a Culture of Philanthropy | Nexus Global Youth Summit

Global Campaign for a Culture of Philanthropy | Nexus Global Youth Summit: "Rules to Give By: A Global Philanthropy Legal Environment Index is the world’s first study on government support for philanthropy in all 193 United Nations Member States. It offers an index of countries’ performance based on the regulatory and tax conditions associated with philanthropy, and investigates the relationship between the presence of such infrastructure and the percentage of people donating money to charity according to the 2013 World Giving Index.
 "



'via Blog this'

Give a Little and Get a Lot: Giving to Charity This Holiday Season | Cindy Crean

Give a Little and Get a Lot: Giving to Charity This Holiday Season | Cindy Crean: "Give a Little and Get a Lot: Giving to Charity This Holiday Season"



'via Blog this'

New charitable tax credit attracts hundreds of Islanders - - CBC News

New charitable tax credit attracts hundreds of Islanders - - CBC News: "More than 300 Islanders made their first ever charitable donations last year, taking advantage of a new federal tax credit.

Ottawa started offering the extra 25% credit on donations up to $1,000 in the 2013 tax year as a way to encourage new donors. "



'via Blog this'

BERNAMA - Singapore President Closes Trades Worth Us$400 Million In Support Of Icap Charity Day

BERNAMA - Singapore President Closes Trades Worth Us$400 Million In Support Of Icap Charity Day: "Singapore President Closes Trades Worth Us$400 Million In Support Of Icap Charity Day

SINGAPORE, Dec 4 (Bernama) -- Singapore's President Tony Tan Keng Yam has closed four trades worth US$400 million at ICAP's 22nd global Charity Day - a day where 100 percent of revenues and commissions will be donated to local charities."



'via Blog this'

Less than a third of Charity Commission staff believe regulator is managed well

Less than a third of Charity Commission staff believe regulator is managed well: "Less than a third of Charity Commission staff feel the regulator is well managed and less than a quarter feel adequately paid, according to a staff engagement survey published yesterday.

Staff were surveyed in October as part of the Civil Service People Survey, which assesses engagement among 103 public sector bodies, and results were published online yesterday. "



'via Blog this'

Vice, Knight Foundation and CUNY create 'innovators' fund | Capital New York

Vice, Knight Foundation and CUNY create 'innovators' fund | Capital New York: "lans for the Knight-VICE innovators fund, which will begin next year, were announced at the Knight Innovation Award ceremony, held at CUNY's 40th Street campus.

Vice Media C.E.O. Shane Smith was the recipient of the second Knight Innovation Award. As part of his prize, Smith was gifted $25,000, along with $25,000 to invest in a startup of his choice.

Smith picked Payk, a nonprofit, Afghanistan-focused organization that convenes journalists "to foster a dialogue that will lead to enlightenment, activism and a sense of belonging to a global community.""



'via Blog this'

$25-Million Gift Restarts U.N. News Agency as Nonprofit – Philanthropy Today - Blogs - The Chronicle of Philanthropy

$25-Million Gift Restarts U.N. News Agency as Nonprofit – Philanthropy Today - Blogs - The Chronicle of Philanthropy: "Hong Kong investor Jho Low’s family foundation has committed $25-million to save the United Nations’ financially ailing news service, which will become a nonprofit journalism venture, reports The New York Times. Integrated Regional Information Networks has operated for nearly 20 years under the aegis of the U.N. office that coordinates humanitarian aid, reporting on disaster relief and development work."



'via Blog this'

Volunteering in 2015: the times they are a-changing | Rob Jackson | Third Sector blogs

Volunteering in 2015: the times they are a-changing | Rob Jackson | Third Sector blogs: "These two tweets summarised my reflections at the Westminster Briefing event looking at Volunteering in 2015. It was an interesting day with a good mix of speakers (including yours truly) who challenged, encouraged and debated with attendees on topics including impact measurement, social enterprise, local and national government policy, social media and the role of infrastructure."



'via Blog this'

IoF updates fundraising code for vulnerable people

IoF updates fundraising code for vulnerable people: "The Institute of Fundraising has today changed its Code of Fundraising Practice guidance to introduce a new standard for those fundraising with people in vulnerable circumstances.

The changes follow recommendations from a Working Group set up earlier in the year in response to a Fundraising Standards Board adjudications. "



'via Blog this'

'Tescoisation' of the charity sector - take two?

'Tescoisation' of the charity sector - take two?: "Many charities are under more pressure than ever to demonstrate tangible impact to funders, or to show that they have delivered the necessary outcomes under a payment-by-results contract to trigger payment from their commissioner.
Just like managers in hard-pressed companies, senior executives in service-delivery charities have to continually hit targets to survive. Inevitably, this pressure to continually prove performance means that some charities are going to be tempted to tamper with data, just like those Tesco executives did."



'via Blog this'

Hopes rise for Christmas mail as Post Office staff return to work | Labour | BDlive

Hopes rise for Christmas mail as Post Office staff return to work | Labour | BDlive: "apo also faced threats of class action lawsuits from, among other quarters, magazine distributors and even charities.

The Southern Africa Institute of Fundraising said at the weekend its members might have lost a combined R55m over the past six months due to disruptions caused to their fundraising efforts.

The institute’s president, Ann Bown, said on Monday that even if mail delivery were to return to normal before Christmas, many organisations were still likely to have to push their festive season fundraising into the new year."



'via Blog this'

Institute of Legacy Management halts merger talks with the Institute of Fundraising | Third Sector

Institute of Legacy Management halts merger talks with the Institute of Fundraising | Third Sector: "Institute of Legacy Management halts merger talks with the Institute of Fundraising
24 November 2014 by Susannah Birkwood, Be the First to Comment

The umbrella body for legacy professionals has been consulting members since April about a proposal for it to become part of the IoF"



'via Blog this'

Understanding Charities Group launches to improve public trust in the sector

Understanding Charities Group launches to improve public trust in the sector: "A cross-sector alliance of charities has formally launched the Understanding Charities Group, aimed at improving public trust and confidence in charities.
It has also outlined four strands of work which will improve understanding of how charities work, improve the public’s trust, empathy and engagement with charities, and increase positive media coverage of the sector and better tackle the negative."



'via Blog this'

Why Canada's Charity System Needs To Consider 'Disbenefits' | Blake Bromley

Why Canada's Charity System Needs To Consider 'Disbenefits' | Blake Bromley: "Previously, I wrote a post about how the leading charity law case, Income Tax Special Commissioners v. Pemsel, requires Scottish charities to conform with English common law. I compared this with Canada's exclusion of Quebec civil law, and its concept of 'bienfaisance,' in determining the meaning of charity in Canada."



'via Blog this'

Battle of the sexes extends to charitable giving patterns

Battle of the sexes extends to charitable giving patterns: "Men tend to write cheques quickly, while women will want to build relationships with the organization they’re giving to, they’ll want to do more due diligence before writing the cheques,” says Jo-Ann Ryan, who leads the Philanthropic Advisory Services team within TD’s Wealth Advisory Services.
 
Ryan hosted two GTA events last week as part of a national series to encourage women to talk about issues raised in the report, called Time, Treasure, Talent: Canadian Women and Philanthropy.
"



'via Blog this'

UK drops from sixth to seventh in league table of most charitable countries | Third Sector

UK drops from sixth to seventh in league table of most charitable countries | Third Sector: "UK drops from sixth to seventh in league table of most charitable countries
18 November 2014 by Sam Burne James, Be the First to Comment

The World Giving Index 2014, published by the Charities Aid Foundation, shows that 74 per cent of people in the UK gave to charity"



'via Blog this'

Ice Bucket Challenge raises $16.2 million in Canada (with video) | Montreal Gazette

Ice Bucket Challenge raises $16.2 million in Canada (with video) | Montreal Gazette: "It was the Ice Bucket Challenge to benefit amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, better known as ALS, a neurodegenerative disease where the body’s cells that control movement die.

Well those amateur acts of cinema helped the ALS Societies of Canada raise a record $16.2 million, thanks to the generosity of more than 260,000 Canadians.

Here in Quebec, $2.5 million was raised by more than 75,000 people.

"



'via Blog this'

Society lotteries deregulation could lead to less trust in charities, says NCVO

Society lotteries deregulation could lead to less trust in charities, says NCVO: "Deregulation of society lotteries could impact public trust and confidence in charities, NCVO has told the Culture, Media and Sport Select Committee.
Giving evidence to the committee yesterday as part of its inquiry into society lotteries, Karl Wilding, director of public policy at NCVO, joined calls for individual society lotteries to be more transparent about how they operate and the proportion of "



'via Blog this'

United States Ranks 9th in the World in Giving to Charity - News - The Chronicle of Philanthropy- Connecting the nonprofit world with news, jobs, and ideas

United States Ranks 9th in the World in Giving to Charity - News - The Chronicle of Philanthropy- Connecting the nonprofit world with news, jobs, and ideas: "The United States climbed into the top 10 on an annual ranking of the countries with the most charitable people but still lags behind smaller and poorer nations like Myanmar, Malta, and Thailand.

The World Giving Index 2014 report released today puts the United States ninth for giving to charity, up from 13th place on the 2013 index."



'via Blog this'

Daily Exchange - Posting

Daily Exchange - Posting: "TORONTO - With National Philanthropy Day fast approaching, BMO Harris Private Banking today released a research report in partnership with GIV3 Foundation, Canadian Association of Gift Planners (CAGP) and Philanthropic Foundations Canada (PFC), which examines the charitable giving behaviour, motivations and hesitations of high-net worth Canadians (those with investible assets of at least $1 million)."



'via Blog this'

Harper Government Celebrates National Philanthropy Day by Highlighting Tax Breaks for Charitable Donations

Harper Government Celebrates National Philanthropy Day by Highlighting Tax Breaks for Charitable Donations: "The Honourable Kerry-Lynne D. Findlay, P.C., Q.C., M.P., Minister of National Revenue, today celebrated National Philanthropy Day by applauding the many Canadians across the country who choose to donate to charities and is encouraging them to take advantage of the tax credits available for eligible charitable donations.
Minister Findlay particularly highlighted the benefits of the first-time donor's super credit. The new temporary donor super credit provides an extra 25 percent federal credit on top of the original charitable donation tax credit. This means that eligible first-time donors can get a 40 percent federal credit for monetary donations of $200 or less, and a 54 percent federal credit for the portion of donations that are over $200 up to a maximum of $1,000. The donor super credit applies to donations made after March 20, 2013, and can only be claimed once between 2013 and 2017. This is in addition to the provincial credits available."



'via Blog this'

Institute of Fundraising Blog - Institute of Fundraising

Institute of Fundraising Blog - Institute of Fundraising: "Institute of Fundraising Blog

This blog is a space for influential voices from the charity sector to comment on topical fundraising issues, explore new fundraising ideas, highlight fundraising success stories, share expertise and more."



'via Blog this'

Project breaks new ground in understanding diversity in giving - The Globe and Mail

Project breaks new ground in understanding diversity in giving - The Globe and Mail: "Project breaks new ground in understanding diversity in giving

CONTENT FROM THE NATIONAL PHILANTHROPY DAY FEATURE"



'via Blog this'

Poor customer service at charities 'a key reason for high attrition rates'

Poor customer service at charities 'a key reason for high attrition rates': "Charities need to stop believing that increasing loyalty engagement with donors will reduce attrition rates and instead focus on improving customer service when people contact the charity, according to a new paper from Donor Voice.

The experience and relationship management company has published a paper titled Donor Churn – How to stop it before it starts and why current approaches prevent this from happening."



'via Blog this'

CAF launches young trustees study following Parliamentary inquiry - Civil Society - Governance - News

CAF launches young trustees study following Parliamentary inquiry - Civil Society - Governance - News: "The Charities Aid Foundation, in partnership with Plan UK trustee Leon Ward, has launched the Young Trustee Survey to investigate the experiences of young trustees in the UK.

The survey follows a recommendation from the Growing Giving Parliamentary Inquiry which launched last year, and subsequent Creating an Age of Giving report. It called for more young people to be given the “opportunity to access the skills needed to take up governance roles in charities”, with the longer-term aim of getting more young people into trustee roles.

The Young Trustee Survey, launched to coincide with Trustees Week, aims to “explore the views held by those who have interacted with young trustees in their role at a charity”. "



'via Blog this'

Google launches public fundraising campaign to fight Ebola | UK Fundraising

Google launches public fundraising campaign to fight Ebola | UK Fundraising: "4
Google is inviting the public to donate to help fight Ebola. For every dollar donated it will donate $2.

The company has already donated $10 million to support NGOs including InSTEDD, International Rescue Committee, Medecins Sans Frontieres, NetHope, Partners in Health, Save the Children and U.S. Fund for UNICEF. The money will be donated to Network for Good, which will distribute the funds to the NGOs.

"



'via Blog this'

Chinese delegation visits Pequannock's NewBridge Services to learn about the nonprofit's approach to philanthropy - Health News - NorthJersey.com

Chinese delegation visits Pequannock's NewBridge Services to learn about the nonprofit's approach to philanthropy - Health News - NorthJersey.com: "NewBridge CEO Robert Parker with Xiaowen Cheng, president of Beijing Geyou Foundation, and Winnie Kuan, program consultant of Cooperation & Development Dept., who visited NewBridge Services Inc. in Pequannock as part of the group's four-day tour, which was hosted by the Rutgers University School of Social Work."



'via Blog this'

Top 30 charity chief executives on social media announced

Top 30 charity chief executives on social media announced: "Charity chief executives are communicating more effectively through social media, according to Simon Blake, who judged the top 30 leaders.
Blake (pictured) who is chief executive of Brook, announced the charity chief executives who had made this year’s list at an event last night, and said the overall quality of the nominees had “developed so much since last year”.
“The confidence with which chief executives seem to be using social media had grown,” he added. "



'via Blog this'

International Million Dollar Donors Report Examines Giving in Seven Regions

International Million Dollar Donors Report Examines Giving in Seven Regions: "International Million Dollar Donors Report Examines Giving in Seven Regions"



'via Blog this'

Advocacy Toolkit | Arts Council

Advocacy Toolkit | Arts Council: "This Advocacy Toolkit is designed to help you reach out to audiences to tell a story about the value and impact of public investment in arts and culture, from both a local and national perspective.

The story you tell is increasingly important as we look towards a General Election in May 2015, followed by a new government and then a Spending Review shortly afterwards. "



'via Blog this'

US-China Institute :: calendar :: china philanthropy summit

US-China Institute :: calendar :: china philanthropy summit: "The Summit brings together over thirty top experts and philanthropists to examine the state of philanthropy in China today and consider how to build on this progress in the future. Scholars from leading U.S. and Chinese universities and institutions will present their latest findings from 13 research projects. And roundtable discussions will feature seasoned American and Chinese philanthropists and the next generation of philanthropic leaders.

Yang Peng, former President of the One Foundation and Holly Chang, Founder and President of the Golden Bridges Foundation, will be the keynote speakers for the Summit. For the full agenda, please see the conference website here.
"



'via Blog this'

#GivingTuesday signs up 400 partners with just over a month until the big day

#GivingTuesday signs up 400 partners with just over a month until the big day: "Some 400 UK-based charity and commercial partners have now signed up to #GivingTuesday – a global campaign to inspire charitable giving.
Launched in the US in 2012, the campaign was created as a chance for people to ‘give back’ after the consumerism of Black Friday and Cyber Monday, the two big festive shopping days after Thanksgiving"



'via Blog this'

Red Cross launches mobile app on disasters | The Jakarta Post

Red Cross launches mobile app on disasters | The Jakarta Post: "The Indonesian Red Cross (PMI) has launched an Android-based mobile application that helps users anticipate natural disasters and share disaster-related information.

The app, called Mass Rapid Assessment (MRA), was launched during a seminar on IT-Telekom and people's disaster preparedness and resilience in South Jakarta on Thursday."



'via Blog this'

Cayman charities: Opening our hearts — and wallets :: Cayman Compass

Cayman charities: Opening our hearts — and wallets :: Cayman Compass: "The efforts of Mr. Haines and his supporters may be the singular act of charity this year in Cayman (It certainly must be the most grueling physically), but they aren’t the only people in Cayman in a persistent “giving mood.”

As always, people throughout the Cayman community continue to demonstrate extraordinary generosity and dedication to their own cherished causes. This becomes particularly evident as the breezes turn brisker and the Christmas season approaches."



'via Blog this'

Got your hand on your nuts? Calgary group challenges others to partake in testicular-cancer campaign | Metro

Got your hand on your nuts? Calgary group challenges others to partake in testicular-cancer campaign | Metro: "The #feelingnuts campaign, created by United Kingdom brothers Simon and Andrew Salter, already claims to have reached more than 720 million people and has seen participants ranging from Hugh Jackman and William Shatner to pop sensations One Direction and Miley Cyrus.

The concept is simple and aims to follow in the waves created by the viral ALS Ice Bucket Challenge, which saw millions pour cold water over their heads in a bid to fundraise this past summer. Those wanting to campaign for the #feelingnuts cause simply must take of themselves gripping their crotch area and promote it."



'via Blog this'

Contactless micro-donation scheme Penny for London 'could raise £5.5m'

Contactless micro-donation scheme Penny for London 'could raise £5.5m': "A micro-donation scheme launched today will allow commuters to donate up to 10p to charity each time they use contactless debit or credit cards to travel on public transport in London.
The scheme, Penny for London, was launched by the Mayor of London, Boris Johnson, and could raise up to £1.8m for the charities involved if 100,000 people sign up in 2015, its developers predict.
"



'via Blog this'

Is China’s philanthropic system finally taking shape?|Zhang Yuwei |chinadaily.com.cn

Is China’s philanthropic system finally taking shape?|Zhang Yuwei |chinadaily.com.cn: "Chinese pianist Lang Lang (left) holds a painting, titled The Paradise of Amitayus, with artist Biang Ben for the auction of the painting, which is worth $100,000, at a fundraising event for Lang Lang's foundation in New York on Friday. Zhang Yuwei / China Daily 
After Chinese pianist Lang Lang performed for the 69th anniversary of the United Nations in New York last Friday, the world-renowned artist held a fundraising event that night at UN headquarters for his foundation that aims to help young music lovers.
The 32-year-old artist hosted some 100 guests, including Sandy Weill, American philanthropist and a former chief executive and chairman of Citigroup, at the UN and raised $1.15 million for his foundation."



'via Blog this'

Overseas aid fund worth £30m open to small and medium-sized charities

Overseas aid fund worth £30m open to small and medium-sized charities: "Applications are open for a £30m British overseas aid fund run by the Department for International Development and aimed at small and medium-sized charities.

The UK Aid Direct fund will be made available for charities working in the developing world. It has a focus on charities targeting the Millenium Development Goals, and will particularly welcome applications with a focus on sexual and reproductive heath and rights."



'via Blog this'

Film of the week: Wear it Pink 'at home, work and play', by Breast Cancer Campaign

Film of the week: Wear it Pink 'at home, work and play', by Breast Cancer Campaign: "Donors are encouraged to celebrate all things pink today and help to raise money for Breast Cancer Campaign’s Wear it Pink day.

Last year a healthy £2.1m was raised in the UK from Wear it Pink day – which in turn helped Breast Cancer Campaign to fund pioneering research across the country."



'via Blog this'

Film of the week: Wear it Pink 'at home, work and play', by Breast Cancer Campaign

Film of the week: Wear it Pink 'at home, work and play', by Breast Cancer Campaign: "Donors are encouraged to celebrate all things pink today and help to raise money for Breast Cancer Campaign’s Wear it Pink day.

Last year a healthy £2.1m was raised in the UK from Wear it Pink day – which in turn helped Breast Cancer Campaign to fund pioneering research across the country."



'via Blog this'

The government is failing on its promise to consult the sector when preparing policy

The government is failing on its promise to consult the sector when preparing policy: "ert Massie looks at the Compact, the agreement between the government and the voluntary and community sector.
Around two decades ago, the Deakin Commission made a recommendation that “a ‘concordat’ be drawn up between representatives of the government and the sector, laying down basic principles for future relations.” The Labour Party was thinking on similar lines and when it came to power in 1997 it supported the development of that document - the Compact.
But now two of the principles on which the Compact is based - the agreement of government to allow time to consult the voluntary sector, and to recognise that the sector has a right to campaign - have been so undermined that a new structure to support the Compact is required."



'via Blog this'

Cambodia: Charity Closes After Scandal - NYTimes.com

Cambodia: Charity Closes After Scandal - NYTimes.com: "The Somaly Mam Foundation, which worked against human trafficking and sexual exploitation, has closed five months after its founder resigned amid allegations of broad deception. "



'via Blog this'

Terumasa Akio saw poverty firsthand. Now his charity helps 400,000 children. - CSMonitor.com

Terumasa Akio saw poverty firsthand. Now his charity helps 400,000 children. - CSMonitor.com: "Terumasa Akio saw poverty firsthand. Now his charity helps 400,000 children.
A visit to a poor Thai village alarmed Mr. Akio. Now his Japan-based charity EDF-International helps thousands of children across Southeast Asia."



'via Blog this'

Umbrella bodies say there is 'overwhelming' case for review of Small Donations Scheme

Umbrella bodies say there is 'overwhelming' case for review of Small Donations Scheme: "There is an “overwhelming case” for an early review of the Gift Aid Small Donations Scheme because most of the charities it was aimed at either do not know about it, cannot understand it, or are not eligible for it, a group of umbrella bodies has said.

The Charity Finance Group, Institute of Fundraising and NCVO together conducted a survey of charities to find out their experience of GASDS and found that the smallest charities are “struggling to work out if they qualify” or to use it. They published a joint briefing last week which summarises the results of the research."



'via Blog this'

Rat Race runners turn into superheroes to raise more than HK$3m for charity | South China Morning Post

Rat Race runners turn into superheroes to raise more than HK$3m for charity | South China Morning Post: "A couple of superheroes and a US president took to the streets of Central yesterday.

But Superman, Captain America and Barack Obama were hardly noticed as they raced among the other fancy-dress entrants in this year's Central Rat Race."



'via Blog this'

Rowers dig deep for marathon charity challenge (From Oxford Mail)

Rowers dig deep for marathon charity challenge (From Oxford Mail): "ROWERS took part in a gruelling 12-hour fundraiser to support the county’s sick youngsters this week.

Staff and leisure members at The Oxford Belfry Hotel, in Milton Common, took part in a sponsored rowathon for Helen and Douglas House. More than £150 was raised by the team of about 50 rowers on Wednesday."



'via Blog this'

Uber’s Nonprofit Ridesharing Service People’s Uber Expands To More Chinese Cities | TechCrunch

Uber’s Nonprofit Ridesharing Service People’s Uber Expands To More Chinese Cities | TechCrunch: "Uber has expanded People’s Uber, its ridesharing pilot program, to more cities in China today, following its August launch in Beijing. People’s Uber is now available in Hangzhou, Chengdu, Wuhan, Shanghai, Shenzhen, and Guangzhou.

People’s Uber matches car owners with people looking for a lift. Unlike Uber’s other options, UberBLACK and UberX, riders are only expected to pay enough to cover the driver’s basic costs, like gas or tolls."



'via Blog this'

Voluntary sector sees “revolving door” of staff, says report

Voluntary sector sees “revolving door” of staff, says report: "The voluntary sector is experiencing a “revolving door” of staff with employee turnover levels at a post-recession high of 22 per cent, according to a People Count Third Sector Report released today by Agenda Consulting.

The survey involving 71 UK third sector organisations, found that staff departures were are up from 18 per cent at the height of the recession in 2011."



'via Blog this'

Voluntourism in Nepal | The National

Voluntourism in Nepal | The National: "In recent years, more and more visitors to Nepal have begun to include community service in their itineraries. When I planned a trip to the landlocked South Asian country, I decided to follow suit.

Twenty volunteers from Australia, the United States and Asia convened at the Kathmandu Peace Guest House in the heart of Thamel Bazaar the night before we left for our assignment. The trip was organised for our group by International Volunteer HQ (IVHQ), a New Zealand-based organisation set up by Dan Radcliffe in 2007, which collaborates with a local registered partner (such as the Kathmandu-based Hope and Home) to provide education, community development and medical and wildlife conservation travel programmes in about 30 different countries."



'via Blog this'

Electoral Commission lobbying act guidance says charities must record staff use of social media | Third Sector

Electoral Commission lobbying act guidance says charities must record staff use of social media | Third Sector:



'via Blog this'

India's $100bn group built on genuine philanthropy - Independent.ie

India's $100bn group built on genuine philanthropy - Independent.ie: "ut at the centre is Tata Sons, the original family vehicle behind them. Tata Sons owns sizeable stakes in all of these huge companies. But Tata Sons is 66pc-owned by philanthropic trusts.

These trusts are dedicated to improving Indian society, across education, health, tackling poverty, etc.

Rather than make billions and then decide to give a lot away, as many multi-millionaires have done, improvement of society is a centre point of the business itself. Casey explains this nicely when it says in the book that the Tata philosophy includes "a commitment to philanthropy - not as an adjunct to business, but as the reason for business"."



'via Blog this'

GuideStar Unveils Online Tool to Gauge Nonprofits’ Diversity - News - The Chronicle of Philanthropy- Connecting the nonprofit world with news, jobs, and ideas

GuideStar Unveils Online Tool to Gauge Nonprofits’ Diversity - News - The Chronicle of Philanthropy- Connecting the nonprofit world with news, jobs, and ideas: "GuideStar Unveils Online Tool to Gauge Nonprofits’ Diversity
By Alex Daniels
Charities can rate their diversity efforts with a new yardstick being offered by GuideStar, an organization that compiles data on nonprofits."



'via Blog this'

Social Enterprise and Social Investment: Characteristics, Approaches, Issues and Challenges | Philanthropy Impact

Social Enterprise and Social Investment: Characteristics, Approaches, Issues and Challenges | Philanthropy Impact: "Most importantly, Big Society Capital is growing a market that will provide funding to address real issues. Already charities and social enterprises are using it to support a broad range of programmes, including early interventions to prevent youth unemployment; enabling community organisations to tackle isolation among older people; and increasing the chances of finding suitable adoptive parents for hard to adopt children.
 
This article looks at Big Society Capital’s journey from inception to where we stand today; what the institution was set up to do; what has been achieved to date; and how our strategy is evolving for the future."



'via Blog this'

Money, Family and Philanthropy | Planned Giving Design Center

Money, Family and Philanthropy | Planned Giving Design Center: "Summary

In this first in a series, Randy Fox interviews Gary Shunk of Family Wealth Dynamics about how family communications often stall the philanthropic process and explores methodologies to resolve these issues."



'via Blog this'

Global Awards for Fundraising: Best International Fundraisers Announced : Page 1 of 2 : FundRaising Success

Global Awards for Fundraising: Best International Fundraisers Announced : Page 1 of 2 : FundRaising Success: "(Press release, October 15, 2014) — Celebrations marking outstanding fundraising took place at the Global Awards for Fundraising ceremony, hosted by the Resource Allianceat the 35th International Fundraising Congress (IFC). Winners were from Australia, Denmark and Italy."



'via Blog this'

National Insurance 'should be an eligible tax for gift aid purposes'

National Insurance 'should be an eligible tax for gift aid purposes': " report released today by nfpSynergy has called for National Insurance to be treated as a tax for gift aid purposes, so that more people will eligible for gift aid.
The report Give and let give: A briefing on gift aid and how it can be made better, released today by nfpSynergy, looks at the history of gift aid and makes four key recommendations for its future. It states that including National Insurance as an eligible tax for gift aid purposes would help tackle the impact of the raising of income tax thresholds to over £10,000 per year. The impact on charities is that donors who were previously eligible for gift aid are no longer, meaning that gift aid will be reaching fewer people, not more."



'via Blog this'

New Chair of the Resource Alliance Announced : Page 1 of 1 : FundRaising Success

PRESS RELEASE

New Chair of the Resource Alliance Announced : Page 1 of 1 : FundRaising Success: "(Press release, Oct. 15, 2014) — The Resource Allianceis delighted to announce that Vicky Annis has been appointed as its new chair of trustees, replacing Jan Krol who has come to the end of his term."



'via Blog this'

Product philanthropy reaches Australian shores — Third Sector — The magazine for Australia’s non-profit and not-for-profit sector

Product philanthropy reaches Australian shores — Third Sector — The magazine for Australia’s non-profit and not-for-profit sector: "The online marketplace that supports this is called the GivingPlace. This facilities the exchange between companies and not-for-profit (NFP) organisations. It also allows individual donors to support causes by directly subsidising shipping and handling costs."



'via Blog this'

After restaurants shuttered, McDonald’s charity now faces Russian legal troubles - The Washington Post

After restaurants shuttered, McDonald’s charity now faces Russian legal troubles - The Washington Post: "Now the legal wrangling that began with questions about the quality of the Filet-O-Fish sandwich and continued with the closure of several McDonald’s restaurants on health grounds this summer is embroiling McDonald’s charitable activities as well.

For the company that has been a symbolic face of America in Russia since the waning days of the Soviet Union, the level of scrutiny "



'via Blog this'

Bernard Arnault Fondation Louis Vuitton - Billionaire

Bernard Arnault Fondation Louis Vuitton - Billionaire: "These ventures are part of a new wave of branded philanthropy in the arts and culture across Europe. Consider Italy, a country where, until very recently, the idea of private companies contributing to public projects stretched credulity. Now, the Fendi family, which owns the Rome-based luxury label, is funding a €2.18 million restoration of the city’s Trevi fountain, while Diego Della Valle, CEO of Tod’s, has pledged €25 million to help restore the city’s Colosseum. The Bulgari family has just given €1.5 million to refurbish the Spanish Steps."



'via Blog this'

Save the Children International income doubles to around £550m

Save the Children International income doubles to around £550m: "Save the Children International’s income more than doubled last year to around £550m as it takes over more aid work from national charities.
According to the charity's recently published annual report and accounts, international operational work is being transferred from country offices to the international organisation, a UK-registered charity which has 30 members in different countries."



'via Blog this'

Paula Sussex: 'We cannot give charities the benefit of the doubt'

Paula Sussex: 'We cannot give charities the benefit of the doubt': "Paula Sussex, the chief executive of the Charity Commission, has said the Commission is now focusing on "robust regulation" and will not allow charities the benefit of the doubt.
Sussex told delegates at the Charity Finance Summit in London this morning that the regulator is becoming “tougher, smarter, more agile and more proactive” under her watch."



'via Blog this'

Asian Philanthropy: Strategic Social Stewardship | The Diplomat

Asian Philanthropy: Strategic Social Stewardship | The Diplomat: "According to the 2014 World Wealth Report, released by Capgemini and RMC Wealth Management, the aggregate investable wealth of HNWIs worldwide has reached $52.62 trillion, a 13.8 percent increase over the past year. Asia-Pacific boasts an estimated $14.2 trillion, with Japan taking the lead. Hong Kong ranks fourth, with about $626 billion in HNWI assets. Asia is home to the fastest growing HNWI population, with 65 percent of total Asia-Pacific HNWI wealth residing in Japan and China.

For many Asian HNWI families, wealth brings a sense of social responsibility. The characteristics of Asian philanthropy reflect cultural values. The family unit plays an important role in driving philanthropy in Asia, seeking out and reaping many benefits from philanthropy: “1) it teaches principles like compassion, courage and tolerance, 2) it fosters capacities for leadership, innovation and responsibility, and 3) it supports family cohesion by providing a common activity and goal for the family to pursue as a unit,” a 2011 UBS INSEAD philanthropy in Asia report explains."



'via Blog this'

Half of charities do not claim gift aid, 2014 SONI report suggests

Half of charities do not claim gift aid, 2014 SONI report suggests: "The proportion of UK charities reporting no income from gift aid increased eight percentage points to 50 per cent this year, according to the 2014 State of the Not-for-Profit Industry report.
But while fewer charities were receiving gift aid, the amounts being claimed increased as gift aid accounted for 6 per cent of total income for UK respondents to the survey, which was up from 4 per cent from 2013.

The report, produced annually by the fundr"



'via Blog this'

Department Of Finance Releases Draft Legislation To Implement Changes To Charitable Bequests - Corporate/Commercial Law - Canada

Department Of Finance Releases Draft Legislation To Implement Changes To Charitable Bequests - Corporate/Commercial Law - Canada: "On August 29th, the Department of Finance released draft legislation to implement changes proposed in the 2014 Budget with respect to charitable bequests.  Other changes proposed in the 2014 Budget were introduced in legislation released earlier this year.

Current rules

Under the current rules, there are three categories of gifts that can be made upon an individual's death:"



'via Blog this'

IoF calls for annual income cap on society lotteries to be raised from £10m to £100m

IoF calls for annual income cap on society lotteries to be raised from £10m to £100m: "The Institute of Fundraising is calling for the annual income cap on society lotteries to be increased from £10m to £100m in response to an inquiry by the Culture Media and Sport Committee.
As well as increasing the turnover limit to enable bigger charities to reach economies of scale and maximise fundraising, the Institute wants an increase in the amount of ticket sales from a single draw from £4m to £10m to allow popular charities to raise more money."



'via Blog this'

The problems with ROI and the need for new rules

The problems with ROI and the need for new rules: "re you having tough conversations with colleagues in finance to secure investment in fundraising? Or has finance already won and you’re putting short-term targets over long-term strategy? By Jenna Pudelek.
These questions formed part of the debate at Fundraising Magazine’s latest Fundraising First Thing event on measurement and looking beyond return on investment. It turned out fundraisers were having these debates and seeking to educate board members and those setting targets, about their fundraising needs.
"



'via Blog this'

Govt to dole out festival cash to flood victims | National

Govt to dole out festival cash to flood victims | National: "KATHMANDU, SEP 28 - The Central Disaster Relief Committee (CDRC) under the Ministry of Home Affairs (MoHA) on Saturday decided to provide additional relief amount worth Rs 3,000 and Rs 50 each to families affected by floods and landslides as festival allowances and daily living respectively.

A CDRC meeting, chaired by Home Minister Bamdev Gautam, agreed to provide financial assistance to the flood victims, particularly those living in the Mid-western and Far-western regions of the country, said Yadav Koirala, chief at the Disaster Management Division under the Home Ministry."



'via Blog this'

[Herald Interview] Philanthropy is about finding shared value: UWW chief

[Herald Interview] Philanthropy is about finding shared value: UWW chief: "Philanthropy is not about society’s “haves” giving their wealth to the “have-nots,” but about inspiring governments and corporations to find value via their contributions, according to the chief of the world’s largest nonprofit organization.

“Philanthropic activities are just like business projects ― one should first find the value, set a detailed goal and take the most cost-effective actions,” Brian Gallagher, president and CEO of United Way Worldwide, told The Korea Herald in an interview. "



'via Blog this'

Anil Agarwal Pledges 75% of his Wealth to Charity | INDIA CSR

Anil Agarwal Pledges 75% of his Wealth to Charity | INDIA CSR: "Vedanta group Chairman Anil Agarwal will give away 75 per cent of his wealth of $3.5 billion (about Rs 21,000 crore) to charity, which would make him corporate India’s biggest donor to society."



'via Blog this'

HK Tycoons Defend Giant Gift to Harvard's Medical School -

HK Tycoons Defend Giant Gift to Harvard's Medical School -: "Harvard University received the largest financial gift in its history earlier in September when the Morningside Foundation, founded by brothers and Hong Kong developers Ronnie Chan Chi-chung and Gerald Chan Lok-chung, donated US$ 350 million to its School of Public Health.
Their generosity was widely applauded, but it also prompted some in China to wonder why they didn't donate the money to Chinese universities that desperately need it."



'via Blog this'

World's 'poorest president' gives most of salary to charity | SBS News

World's 'poorest president' gives most of salary to charity | SBS News: "Uruguay’s leader José Mujica must be one of the world’s most unusual presidents – he gives away 90% of his salary to charity and chooses to live a very basic lifestyle."



'via Blog this'

Ten Things to Prevent Constitutional Drift Within NPOs | NGO Pulse

Ten Things to Prevent Constitutional Drift Within NPOs | NGO Pulse: "This article encourages and shares tools with NPOs on how to understand, compile and utilise a constitution 
"



'via Blog this'

Law Commission proposes statutory power to make social investment

Law Commission proposes statutory power to make social investment: "The Law Commission has recommended new rules to give charities a statutory power to make social investments in a  paper published today.

A report, entitled Social Investment by Charities: The Law Commission’s Recommendations, says that generally charities already have the power to make social investments, but there is a lack of clarity among many trustees about exactly what they are allowed to do.
The report follows a consultation earlier this year which was broadly welcomed by the sector."



'via Blog this'

Behind the scenes at the UK’s philanthropy clubs | Voluntary Sector Network | Guardian Professional

Behind the scenes at the UK’s philanthropy clubs | Voluntary Sector Network | Guardian Professional: "I’m here to learn more about “giving clubs”, a US phenomenon which is growing in popularity in the UK. Broadly speaking, people get together to socialise, learn about different charities and donate some money.

The format at The Funding Network events is like Dragon’s Den: four charities have six minutes each to present their pitch. They say how much money they would like and what for. Each pitch is followed by six minutes of questions. At the end of the pitches the charities leave the room and the pledging session begins."



'via Blog this'

Devolution 'will affect how charities operate'

Devolution 'will affect how charities operate': "The political landscape that charities operate in looks set to change following the Scottish decision to vote against independence, NCVO has warned.
Before the vote Prime Minster David Cameron announced plans for greater devolution across the whole of the United Kingdom. This morning he pledged to honour commitments to devolve more power to the Scottish Parliament and said that England, Wales and Northern Ireland should also be able to have more say on issues of tax, spending and welfare.
"



'via Blog this'

A big thank you! Charity’s message to Britain after nearly £7 million raised in Ice Bucket Challenge - Telegraph

A big thank you! Charity’s message to Britain after nearly £7 million raised in Ice Bucket Challenge - Telegraph: "The Ice Bucket challenge has raised almost £7 million in Britain for motor neurone disease research.
The charity stunt, which sees participants being filmed while soaking themselves in freezing cold water to encourage donations, quickly became an internet craze across America then Britain."

Student to travel to China for philanthropy Olympics

Student to travel to China for philanthropy Olympics: "Enactus is an international philanthropic organisation that brings together university students, their academic advisers and business experts to create and implement community empowerment projects around the globe.
When developing projects, Enactus teams must consider the relevant economic, social and environmental factors then use entrepreneurial action to implement them."



'via Blog this'

‘Lather Against Ebola’, an ‘Ice Bucket’ challenge against virus - The Malaysian Insider

‘Lather Against Ebola’, an ‘Ice Bucket’ challenge against virus - The Malaysian Insider: "Bringing a soapy twist to the "Ice Bucket Challenge" that has swept the world in recent weeks, Ivorians are raising awareness about the deadly disease outbreak in west Africa with a new "Lather Against Ebola" campaign.

People in Ivory Coast do use ice in their variation, but have added a good head of lather to alert others to the need for hygiene to ward off the Ebola epidemic raging in neighbouring countries."

We are very serious about Africa: Indian billionaire Azim Premji - CNBC Africa

We are very serious about Africa: Indian billionaire Azim Premji - CNBC Africa



In India, the company also engages heavily in social empowerment. TheAzim Premji Foundation established in 2001 is focused on enhancing the  public school education system, and on teaching and research programs in
engineering education. Wipro hopes to do the same to develop skills andbuild local talent in South Africa, using the country as a base for therest of Africa. The company has been present in South Africa for the
last three years, employing over 1,200 employees with a 40% local workforce.

Paula Sussex announces a more proactive Charity Commission

Paula Sussex announces a more proactive Charity Commission

The new chief executive of the Charity Commission
has promised her organisation will be more proactive and do more to
deter wrongdoing in the sector, and has said she plans to restructure
the senior management to help achieve this.

Shawcross: 'Too often charities respond defensively'

Shawcross: 'Too often charities respond defensively'

Sector leaders warned yesterday that charities need to get better at answering the public’s questions if the sector is to hold on to high levels of trust.  Speaking at a debate on public perceptions of charity, Charity Commisson chair William Shawcross said that “too often charities respond defensively” when faced with “legitimate questions” about issues like executive pay and charitable expenditure.

More charities are securing corporate partnerships totalling £10m a year

More charities are securing corporate partnerships totalling £10m a year

Partnerships between companies and charities are increasingly longer-term, higher-value and more strategic, according to a report bythe consultancy C&;E Advisory. C&;E’s annual Corporate-NGO Partnerships Barometer  shows a 12 per cent rise this year in the proportion of charities saying that their various partnerships with companies are worth morethan £10m a year in total. 

Social investment taskforce urges reforms to let charities 'embrace entrepreneurial risk-taking' | Third Sector

Social investment taskforce urges reforms to let charities 'embrace entrepreneurial risk-taking' | Third Sector

A report published by the Social Impact Investment  Taskforce says its recommended measures could help to unlock $1tn  (£615bn) of social investment funds around the world

Donations pour in to Manchester Dogs’ Homes following arson attack

Donations pour in to Manchester Dogs’ Homes following arson attack

Manchester Dogs' Home has received almost £600,000 worth of donations
through a JustGiving page set up following a fire at the site that has
left at least 43 dogs dead.

BBC News - Ice bucket challenge: 'One in six Britons took part'

BBC News - Ice bucket challenge: 'One in six Britons took part'

One in six Britons havetaken part in the ice bucket challenge to raise money for charity,research commissioned by the Charities Aid Foundation suggests. The charity told BBC Breakfast that one in 10 people donated as a result of the campaign - each giving an average of almost £5. ComRes polled 2,058 British adults online from 5 to 7 September.

New Partnership with Scholas Occurrentes | United Way

New Partnership with Scholas Occurrentes | United Way

I was in Rome last week to sign a Memorandum of Understanding with Scholas Occurrentes, an education initiative started by Pope Francis while he was Bishop of Buenos Aires.

Five ways to make your charity campaign go global | Voluntary Sector Network | Guardian Professional

Five ways to make your charity campaign go global | Voluntary Sector Network | Guardian Professional

From preparing for a viral sensation to ensuring your messages are culturally appropriate, here’s how to conquer the world

Bitcoin: how the charity RNLI is using the digital currency | Voluntary Sector Network | Guardian Professional

Bitcoin: how the charity RNLI is using the digital currency | Voluntary Sector Network | Guardian Professional

Why did RNLI decide to use Bitcoins?

The idea came from our research into future trends and changes that
may impact on the RNLI. Basically, it looked likely that we would
receive digital currency as a donation and/or as part of a legacy at
some point and we wanted to be prepared for that eventuality. While
researching, we became aware that using Bitcoin could expose the RNLI to
new audiences.

Donating to charity: Are we getting as good as we give? - Features - Health & Families - The Independent

Donating to charity: Are we getting as good as we give? - Features - Health & Families - The Independent

Thirty new charities are set up every day, on average, in England and
Wales. Most of them begin around a family kitchen table. There are,
today, 164,108 charities in this country. Almost half of them raise less
than £10,000 a year. Three-quarters have an annual income of below
£100,000. Only 1 per cent handle more than £5m annually.

Catholic Church rejects more regulation of charities

Catholic Church rejects more regulation of charities

On Monday at the National Press Club the CEO of World Vision Australia,
Reverend Tim Costello, said that one church denominationopposed the
Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission, because it didn't
"want a secular, atheistic regulator in charge".  On Tuesday Fairfax
Media said he was referring to the Catholic Church and I completely
reject that claim.

Read more: http://www.smh.com.au/comment/catholic-church-rejects-more-regulation-of-charities-20140909-10ebcz.html#ixzz3Cuex9aDM

Israeli non-profits look to US counterparts for funding

Israeli non-profits look to US counterparts for funding

Non-profit organization director says 38% of US Jewish charity is directed toward Israel.

Channel 4's Dispatches might have been a 'hatchet job' but fundraisers need to tackle the allegations - Civil Society - Fundraising - Blogs

Channel 4's Dispatches might have been a 'hatchet job' but fundraisers need to tackle the allegations - Civil Society - Fundraising - Blogs

Hong Kong Family Gives $350-Million to Harvard Health School – Philanthropy Today - Blogs - The Chronicle of Philanthropy

Hong Kong Family Gives $350-Million to Harvard Health School – Philanthropy Today - Blogs - The Chronicle of Philanthropy

Hong Kong Family Gives $350-Million to Harvard Health School

A foundation associated with one of Hong Kong’s richest
families has donated $350-million to Harvard University’s School of
Public Health, The New York Times and Reuters
report. The unrestricted gift from the Morningside Foundation will
boost student financial aid and research and training in four broad
areas: pandemics, environmental health risks, poverty and humanitarian
crises, and failing health systems.

CharityComms launches new drive to improve public understanding of charity

CharityComms launches new drive to improve public understanding of charity

CharityComms is establishing a working group to look at how charities
can be more proactive in explaining how they work and respond to
criticism, in a bid to maintain public trust and confidence in the
sector.

The membership body for charity communications
professionals is leading the initiative, which is based on work it has
done with NCVO on how the sector can tackle negative views and

The Changing Landscape of NGOs in China | CAF America

The Changing Landscape of NGOs in China | CAF America



All eyes have been on China, with one fifth of the world’s population,
the second largest economy in the world, and an annual GDP growth rate
of ~10%. However, in tandem with such tremendous growth there has been a
parallel increase in social and environmental challenges. From
excessive coal burning and dangerous levels of pollution (to the point
where it is affecting the ability to attract employees in large cities),
to huge income disparities and migrant worker challenges as workers
flee to the cities to earn a livelihood but do not have the legal right
to reside in those cities.

Volunteering is at a ten-year high, research shows

Volunteering is at a ten-year high, research shows

Volunteering is at a ten-year high with 26 per cent of people
carrying out some volunteering in the last three months, and more men
are volunteering than women, according to new research by nfpSynergy.

The research consultancy’s report, The New Alchemy, published today, analyses trends in volunteering over the past decade and people’s motivations for giving their time.   

International Day of Charity - 5 September

International Day of Charity - 5 September

In recognition of the role of charity in alleviating humanitarian crises and human ‎suffering within and among nations,
as well as of the efforts of charitable organizations ‎and individuals,
including the work of Mother Teresa, the General Assembly of the ‎United Nations in its resolution A/RES/67/105
designated the 5th of September, the ‎anniversary of the death of Mother Teresa, as the International Day of Charity.‎