Thursday, June 22, 2006

People's Daily Online -- New elite of super-rich emerge in developing nations

People's Daily Online -- New elite of super-rich emerge in developing nations: "Developing countries are experiencing a rapid emergence of a new elite of super-rich individuals as their economies expand and mature.

A report published on Tuesday shows that the number of 'high net-worth individuals' (HNWI) increased by 21 per cent in South Korea, 19 per cent in India and 17 per cent in Russia over the past year.

These dramatic increases in individual wealth were largely as a result of booming stock markets the Dow Jones South Korea Index gained 55 per cent in 2005, for example."

www.publicfinance.co.uk - Features - Profile – Geraldine Peacock – A leading role

www.publicfinance.co.uk - Features - Profile – Geraldine Peacock – A leading role: "Features

Profile – Geraldine Peacock – A leading role

The chair of the Charity Commission turned down Rada for a career in social policy. But the theatre’s loss has been the voluntary sector’s gain, writes Vivienne Russell

Geraldine Peacock admits to being something of a thwarted actress. Indeed, her career would have gone in a very different direction had she taken up the place she won at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art rather than opting for a career in social policy that has led her all the way to the chair of the Charity Commission."

Wednesday, June 21, 2006

BBC NEWS | UK | Lottery to offer charity choices

BBC NEWS | UK | Lottery to offer charity choices: "ottery to offer charity choices
pile of pound coins
In the past some causes funded by the lottery have attracted criticism
Plans to enable National Lottery players to choose causes that benefit from their money have been unveiled by Culture Secretary Tessa Jowell.

Ms Jowell announced two pilot schemes, in different parts of the UK, which will make up to £50,000 available to the most popular local charities.

It is understood that people in these areas can tick a box to register support for their favourite causes.

Lottery chiefs have been accused in the past of funding undeserving projects."

SocietyGuardian.co.uk | Society | Rights thinking

SocietyGuardian.co.uk | Society | Rights thinking: "Ken Burnett describes an approach to charity that shows recipients they are entitled to a better future

Tuesday June 20, 2006

Living free from hunger and poverty is not just a need but also a right: discuss. This would be a good exam question not only for students of international development but also for anyone working to making poverty history. The rights-based approach to eradicating poverty is contentious but, after decades of, at best, partial success using other methods, many aid agencies are moving towards it."

Tuesday, June 20, 2006

Channelnewsasia.com-Celebrate Youth Day by Running for Charity

Channelnewsasia.com: "Celebrate Youth Day by Running for Charity
By Amanda Mun, Channel NewsAsia



SINGAPORE: Youth Day is coming and the MILK Run will begin.

This is the annual race for charity to help raise funds to fight delinquency among children and youth from low income families.

For the first time ever, MILK Run 2006 will kick start the celebrations beginning with a youth parade.

Also new is the month-long celebration of youth organised by SHINE.

Organised by MILK (Mainly I Love Kids) and Beyond Social Services(Beyond), MILK Run is targeting to raise one million dollars. "

Chiefs are not charity cases - Jobs - Times Online

Chiefs are not charity cases - Jobs - Times Online: "Chiefs are not charity cases
PAYING chief executives high salaries is a waste of money; bring on the celebrities. Don’t argue, the public have spoken.

According to a poll by nfpSynergy, a think-tank, more than 80 per cent of people think paying charity chief executives £60,000 a year is excessive. Instead, survey respondents, on average, settled on £46,000 as an acceptable reward for running a charity with an income of between £10 million and £25 million.

In fact, says Third Sector (June 14), chief executives running charities of that size earn an average of £71,000. A few respondents would be less than happy with that figure — 14 per cent of people think £20,000 is more than enough."

1june2006 - Professional Fundraising-Giving Forum calls for government to underwrite tests of original ideas

1june2006 - Professional Fundraising: "Giving Forum calls for government to underwrite tests of original ideas

The Giving Forum is pushing for the introduction of a new scheme that would see the government underwriting the testing of new fundraising techniques.

The Challenge Fund, as it has been dubbed, would allow charities to test out new ideas without putting donations at risk. the Forum first suggested the idea to the government a few months ago, and now a meeting is to be set up with Ed Miliband, minister for the third sector, to discuss whether the proposal can be taken any further forward.

Lord Richard Best, director of the Joseph Rowntree Foundation and chair of the Giving Forum, said: “We floated the idea with the Home Office about five months ago. They’ve been making favourable noises but have also come up with their own variant on the theme so we could find that although the idea may come to some fruition it may be done without involvement from the Giving Forum.”"
Tags:

Monday, June 19, 2006

Green grow the NGOs—Oh! says close-to-government group | China Development Brief

Green grow the NGOs—Oh! says close-to-government group | China Development Brief: "Green grow the NGOs—Oh! says close-to-government group
Mon, 2006-06-19 14:34
Civil Society | Environment

China’s environmental NGOs are an “indispensable force” that is likely to grow by 10-15% annually (in terms of both the number of organisations and the number of staff working for them), with steadily greater collaboration and multi-sectoral working approaches, according to a report released by the All-China Environmental Federation (ACEF)."

Channelnewsasia.com- Companies giving workers time off for volunteer work

Channelnewsasia.com: "SINGAPORE : Most Singaporeans would look forward to taking leave from work and going on a holiday, but a growing number are taking leave to do volunteer work, with the blessing of their employers.

CapitaLand is the first company to have signed on to Comcare Connections, an initiative by the Community Development, Youth and Sports Ministry to get companies involved in social projects.

Soon after graduation, 24-year-old Mindy Teo found a job at CapitaLand, and it was there that she got into the spirit of volunteerism, with some encouragement from the company.
"

Congress workers turn philanthropists on Rahul's birthday

Congress workers turn philanthropists on Rahul's birthday: "ongress MP Rahul Gandhi celebrated a quiet 37th birthday Monday, and it was an occasion for several party workers across the country to indulge in some philanthropy following strict instructions that there should be no wasteful expenditure. "

Friday, June 16, 2006

The St. Petersburg Times - News - Conference to Highlight Role of Charity in Russia

The St. Petersburg Times - News - Conference to Highlight Role of Charity in Russia: "Conference to Highlight Role of Charity in Russia

By Gregory Sandstrom

Special to St. Petersburg Times

A “revival of the spirit of charity in Russia” is the focus of an international conference running Friday through Sunday, organized by the St. Petersburg School of Religion and Philosophy.

The conference entitled “Charity in Russia: Concepts and Experiences of Charity Investment and Sponsorship” will be held at and sponsored by the Hotel Angleterre."

eGov monitor |-Next Chair of the Charity Commission announced

eGov monitor |: "Next Chair of the Charity Commission announced
Source: Cabinet Office
Published Friday, 16 June, 2006 - 05:59

Give us your feedback.Your feedback

Ed Miliband, Minister for the Third Sector at the Cabinet Office, today announced the appointment of Dame Suzi Leather DBE as the next Chair of the Charity Commission.

Suzi Leather takes over her new role from Geraldine Peacock CBE on 1 August 2006. She will step down as chair of the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority (HFEA), a role she has occupied since 2002."

Thursday, June 15, 2006

Charities Aid Foundation - Find a charity

Charities Aid Foundation - Find a charity: "Find a charity - advanced options
To find a charity, enter your criteria

Foreign-funded nonprofits under investigation in China - The Boston Globe

Foreign-funded nonprofits under investigation in China - The Boston Globe: "Foreign-funded nonprofits under investigation in China
Agencies probe groups' finances, political links

By Jehangir S. Pocha, Globe Correspondent | June 15, 2006

BEIJING -- The Chinese government has launched intensive financial and security probes of many foreign-funded nonprofit groups, according to the organizations."

Wednesday, June 14, 2006

Channelnewsasia.com-"Singapore Red Cross celebrates World Blood Donor Day

Channelnewsasia.com: "Singapore Red Cross celebrates World Blood Donor Day
By Nur Azira Aziz, Channel NewsAsia



SINGAPORE : 'Building Lives, Connecting Communities' is the theme of this year's World Blood Donor Day.

Some 2,000 participants were at East Coast Park on Wednesday building sandcastles.

Organisers say this symbolises the hope and new lease of life for those who need blood to stay alive. "

allAfrica.com: Nigeria: How Strategic Philanthropy (Page 1 of 3)

allAfrica.com: Nigeria: How Strategic Philanthropy (Page 1 of 3):


snip snip>>
"This true-life testimonial was given last week at the two-day Leadership Forum on strategic philanthropy organised by the Institute for Research on Africa (IRA) in Abuja. The theme of the forum was 'Harnessing Indigenous Traditions of Giving: Conceptualisations of the Good Life, Good Person, Good System & Good Society'. Eminent persons from within and without the country including Dr. Fazle Hassan Abed, the globally acclaimed philanthropist who built the Bangladeshi Rural Advancement Committee (BRAC) from a kitchen operation to become the largest NGO in the world, addressed the forum."

Monday, June 12, 2006

Mortgage Solutions - Principia aims to raise profile with charity partnership

Mortgage Solutions - Principia aims to raise profile with charity partnership: "Principia aims to raise profile with charity partnership

By Anne Petrie

London-based mortgage consultancy Principia Mortgages has announced a partnership with HIV and AIDS charity Crusaid, in a move intended to increase the profile of both organisations.

Principia will donate 10% of new business generated through the marketing of the partnership to the charity, and has set itself a target of around £12,000 a year.

In return, Principia will appear on the marketing material Crusaid, which not only supports people in the UK with HIV and AIDS, but is also developing treatment centres in Africa."

UK Fundraising | News | Acevo becomes registered charity

UK Fundraising | News | Acevo becomes registered charity: "Acevo becomes registered charity
by Howard Lake
12 Jun 2006

The Charity Commission has registered the Association of Chief Executives of Voluntary Organisations (acevo) as a charity with the objective of working to promote the third sector for the benefit of the public.

Acevo was established in 1987, acevo provides advice and training to improve efficiency and effectiveness, and works with a range of third sector organisations."

THISDAY ONLINE-How Strategic Philanthropy

THISDAY ONLINE: "How Strategic Philanthropy
06.11.2006



Nigerians are reputed to be generous when it comes to giving. However, the missing link is the difficulty in building on the indigenous equity for giving in the African context. How can the environment be made conducive for both grant-seekers and grant-providers to ameliorate some of the inefficiencies of the system? At a forum, which held in Abuja last week, participants explored ways of institutionalising philanthropy in Nigeria. Godwin Haruna covered the deliberations"

SocietyGuardian.co.uk | Voluntary sector | On reflection

SocietyGuardian.co.uk | Voluntary sector | On reflection: "n reflection

Squeegees mop up charity profit

Patrick Collinson
Saturday June 10, 2006
The Guardian

I spent rather too much time this week avoiding friendly, smiling young adults all wanting to talk to me. Unfortunately, they all wanted to talk to me about direct debits. I thought the curse of the 'chuggers' was mostly over. But oh no. Tuesday night the door bell rang, and the rep from the British Heart Foundation started his spiel. Wednesday, reps from Age Concern were everywhere. I dodged the first, only to be assailed by a second. At the station they jumped out again, pleading with me to 'just talk' to them."

BCCH Miracle Weekend - BCCHF

BCCH Miracle Weekend - BCCHF: "BC Children’s Hospital Miracle Weekend 2006



A new North American Record: $13,086,895 Raised!

"

Charity Village®NewsWeek: Cover Story-"Highlights from the Canadian Survey of Giving, Volunteering and Participating

Charity Village®NewsWeek: Cover Story: "Highlights from the Canadian Survey of Giving, Volunteering and Participating
Elisa BirnbaumJune 12, 2006
By Elisa Birnbaum

Did you ever wonder how generous a nation we are? Are you curious about how much money, time and resources you and your fellow neighbours give to those who need it most? Well, you can stop guessing. Statistics Canada just revealed the results of a survey conducted in 2004, providing a comprehensive overview of how Canadians support their communities. And according to the Canada Survey of Giving, Volunteering and Participating (CSGVP), there's some good news - and some not so good news."

Friday, June 09, 2006

Charities Aid Foundation - News centre

Charities Aid Foundation - News centre
Charities told: "Work together"

Charities could work together more to increase their productivity and effectiveness, according to new government guidance released today.

The Charity Commission has published guidance on collaborative working within the sector to advise charities who could combine their efforts to achieve greater results in their activities.

Disaster management training programme for NGOs : HindustanTimes.com

Disaster management training programme for NGOs : HindustanTimes.com: "Disaster management training programme for NGOs
HT Correspondent
Bhopal, June 8, 2006




NON-GOVERNMENT ORGANISATIONS can play an important role in the aftermath of disasters to deliver emergency health care and provide long-term medical support. To equip the NGOs in a better way towards this, Disaster Management Institute has organised a two-day training programme on chemical accidents and industrial disaster management."

allAfrica.com: Kenya: NGO Board Needs to Get the Basics Right

allAfrica.com: Kenya: NGO Board Needs to Get the Basics Right: "Kenya: NGO Board Needs to Get the Basics Right

The East African Standard
The East African Standard (Nairobi)

EDITORIAL
June 5, 2006
Posted to the web June 5, 2006

Nairobi

The Non-Governmental Organisations Coordination Board is at it again, and this time it is not about unregistered NGOs, but donor funding. The board claims that donors are abetting the existence of 'briefcase' civic organisations by funding them without consulting it. It argues most donors do not seek or provide information on the legal existence of organisations they fund."

Environment Canada: Generous Donation to Canadians-Milestone-Ecogift Protects Rare Alvar Habitat Forever

Environment Canada: Generous Donation to Canadians-Milestone-Ecogift Protects Rare Alvar Habitat Forever: "In recognition of these generous donations of land by Canadians, the Government of Canada announced in Budget 2006 that Ecological Gifts made after May 2, 2006 will be exempt from the capital gains inclusion for income tax purposes.

An ecological gift is a donation of land or an interest in land - such as a conservation easement, covenant or servitude - that has been certified as 'ecologically sensitive' according to specific national and provincial criteria, to an approved environmental charity or any level of government. Ecologically sensitive lands are areas or sites that currently, or could in the future, significantly contribute to the conservation of Canada's biodiversity and environmental heritage. In exchange for their gift, donors of certified ecologically sensitive lands enjoy special income tax provisions specific to their gift. Ecological gifts receive tax treatment that is different from most other charitable gifts. Some benefits that they may receive are reduced taxable capital gain on the disposition of the property; no income limit for calculating the tax credit/deduction; donation value certified by the Government of Canada; and a tax liability for donees that do not protect the gifted land.
"

The New Global Arabism

The New Global Arabism:
snip snip>>>
"Beirut, too, is a strikingly forward example of where globalization is carrying the world. As state institutions lose leverage around the world, in Lebanon they have been essentially absent for decades. As a result, it is political philanthropy -- such as that of former prime minister Rafiq Hariri, a political Donald Trump until his assassination last year -- which dictates status and influence."

Thursday, June 08, 2006

edmontonsun.com - Alberta - Good neighbours, good volunteers!

edmontonsun.com - Alberta - Good neighbours, good volunteers!: "Hey, we give -- we're just shy about it.

New national volunteerism statistics are giving the sector's Alberta supporters optimism they can reverse a trend away from long-term charitable giving.

The Canada Study on Giving, Volunteering and Participating indicates more than 80% of Albertans volunteer on a community level without reporting it."

Wednesday, June 07, 2006

Channelnewsasia.com

Channelnewsasia.com: "Community Chest's charity drive to raise $47m for 154 programmes
By Julia Ng, Channel NewsAsia



The Community Chest aims to raise $47 million this year to help pay for 154 programmes.

Helping children to succeed will be the focus of the charity drive.

About 48 percent of the sum it hopes to raise will go towards funding 45 programmes to nurture children.

Needy families, the disabled and the elderly will also continue to get help. "

SocietyGuardian.co.uk | Voluntary sector | Online lottery company faces ruin as punters decide they don't like Mondays

SocietyGuardian.co.uk | Voluntary sector | Online lottery company faces ruin as punters decide they don't like Mondays: "Online lottery company faces ruin as punters decide they don't like Mondays

· Charity pitch falls flat just four weeks after launch
· Urgent search for extra funding to keep firm afloat

Simon Bowers
Tuesday June 6, 2006
The Guardian

It started out as a small but brazen challenger to the national lottery, hoping to capitalise on a stream of damaging stories that have caricatured many of the good causes benefiting from lottery cash as unworthy or ridiculous.

But last night, Tim Holley, chairman of the company behind Monday, the world's first online-only lottery, was believed to be close to resigning as the company found itself on the brink of financial ruin after just four weeks in operation. Mr Holley and two fellow directors have also received payouts worth more than the £520,000 donated to the 20 charities linked to Monday."

Tuesday, June 06, 2006

Pull weight on charity salaries: NSW | | The Australian

Pull weight on charity salaries: NSW | | The Australian: "Pull weight on charity salaries: NSW
June 07, 2006
CHARITIES and welfare groups will have to slash services for the elderly and disabled unless the commonwealth increases funding for staff salaries, the NSW Government said.

NSW Ageing and Disability Services Minister John Della Bosca said yesterday's state budget included $21 million to cover wage increases in non-government organisations."

NGOs lead by example: World’s international NGOs endorse accountability charter - news.amnesty - Amnesty International

NGOs lead by example: World’s international NGOs endorse accountability charter - news.amnesty - Amnesty International: "NGOs lead by example: World’s international NGOs endorse accountability charter

06/06/2006

ActionAid International
Amnesty International
CIVICUS World Alliance for Citizen Participation
Consumers International
Greenpeace International
Oxfam International
International Save the Children Alliance
Survival International
International Federation Terre des Hommes
Transparency International
World YWCA

(London) The heads of 11 of the world’s leading human rights, environmental and social development international organisations have today publicly endorsed the first global accountability charter for the non-profit sector.

International NGOs play an increasingly influential role. Global public opinion surveys show higher trust in NGOs than in government and business. In addition to an internal desire to be transparent and accountable, the Accountability Charter also seeks to demonstrate that NGOs deeply value public trust, do not take it for granted and are committed to sustaining and deepening that trust. This initiative comes at a time when the non-profit sector is coming under closer scrutiny, both from those who want it to flourish and those who seek to curtail NGO activities."

Ethical Corporation: Asia Pacific - Corporate responsibility in India: Flying the flag the Tata way

Ethical Corporation: Asia Pacific - Corporate responsibility in India: Flying the flag the Tata way: "Corporate responsibility in India: Flying the flag the Tata way
Poulomi Mrinal Saha, Assistant Editor
6 Jun 06

Ethical policies being rolled out
Ethical policies being rolled out
» SRI in emerging markets: India (S)

Those searching for national champions of corporate responsibility in Asia need look no further than the 138-year-old behemoth Tata Group
An Indian marketing consultant has been recently honoured with a patent for his eco-friendly packaging for steel. Himanshu Sheth has developed Coir Atlas, a product that aims to replace timber packaging with a mix of bamboo and jute. He was encouraged to create this biodegradable alternative not by an engineering or design academy, but by a company – Tata Steel.

Innovating while protecting the environment is one of the commitments the Tata Group, one of India’s biggest business conglomerates of which Tata Steel is a subsidiary, has made towards what it calls “nation-building”, which it sees as part of its responsibility towards wider society.
The group, which has 93 companies in seven sectors including chemicals, energy, consumer products and technology, is one of India’s oldest businesses and has a well-established tradition of giving back to society. "

Egypt Tells US NGO to Halt Its Activities

Egypt Tells US NGO to Halt Its Activities: "Egypt Tells US NGO to Halt Its Activities
Agence France Presse


CAIRO, 6 June 2006 — Egypt has asked an American NGO, which promotes democracy to suspend its activities in the country due to interference in Cairo’s internal affairs, the Foreign Ministry said yesterday. A ministry spokesman said that Egypt has called on the International Republican Institute to halt operations in Egypt until it has received the necessary permits."

Ford Foundation Gives $30M to TrustAfrica

Ford Foundation Gives $30M to TrustAfrica: "he Ford Foundation on Tuesday launched an independent, African-led nonprofit that aims to give Africans greater opportunity to solve the continent's problems themselves.

The Ford Foundation committed $30 million to fund TrustAfrica, which has been developed over the past five years and will now be based in Senegal's capital of Dakar and governed solely by Africans"

Monday, June 05, 2006

Irish Examiner> Breaking News> 40,000 to turn out for charity run

Irish Examiner> Breaking News> Sport: "40,000 to turn out for charity run

Up to 40,000 women will join forces on the streets of Dublin today to raise millions of euro for charity.

The Women’s Mini Marathon – the biggest all women’s event of its kind in the world – begins at 3pm with runners, joggers and walkers completing the 10km course through the south of the city."

globeandmail.com : Charity ride raises record $2-million

globeandmail.com : Charity ride raises record $2-million: "Charity ride raises record $2-million

JEFF GRAY

More than 13,000 cyclists and in-line skaters took over the Don Valley Parkway and the Gardiner Expressway yesterday, raising what organizers said was a record $2-million in the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Ontario's annual Ride for Heart.

Among those riding and skating in the 19th annual event was 53-year-old Candace Allman, who, just 15 months ago, suffered a stroke that paralyzed the entire left side of her body while she was making dinner plans on the phone."

Friday, June 02, 2006

FT.com / China / Business - Chinese philanthropy yet to take off

FT.com / China / Business - Chinese philanthropy yet to take off: "Chinese philanthropy yet to take off
By Andrew Yeh in Beijing
Published: June 2 2006 18:11 | Last updated: June 2 2006 18:11

China’s not-for-profit sector has failed to develop, hindered by a shortage of domestic donations and inefficient ways of channelling funds to grassroots groups, according to research by consultancy McKinsey.
ADVERTISEMENT


“China is probably the most underdeveloped philanthropic market globally [relative to other large economies],” said Andrew Grant, head of McKinsey for greater China. “It’s an engine that China desperately needs.”"

University of Toronto -- News@UofT -- Giving the gift of securities (Jun 2/06)

University of Toronto -- News@UofT -- Giving the gift of securities (Jun 2/06): "Giving the gift of securities
Recent elimination of capital gains tax on gifts of securities makes gift planning more attractive
Jun 2/06
by Elizabeth Raymer

Actor and director William Davis is best known for his recurring role as a cigarette-smoking bad guy, dubbed “cancer man,” on the television show The X-Files. In real life, the University of Toronto grad doesn’t smoke, is a Canadian national champion water-skier in his division and a spokesman for the Canadian Cancer Society. He’s also planning to soon make a gift of securities to Hart House Theatre.
ALSO SEE:

* U of T buildings win architectural awards
* Five honoured with President's Teaching Award


Davis decided to make the gift after being contacted by the university about revitalizing Hart House Theatre as an undergraduate production centre."

New programme of free training and support aims to improve third sector performance | eGov monitor

New programme of free training and support aims to improve third sector performance | eGov monitor: "New programme of free training and support aims to improve third sector performance
Source: National Council of Voluntary Organisations
Published Thursday, 1 June, 2006 - 05:11


The Performance Hub is today announcing its new programme of free regional training. Between June 2006 and February 2007, the Hub will deliver training courses for those who provide advice and support to voluntary, community or social enterprise organisations on how to improve their performance.

There will be five courses, which will each be delivered in each of the nine English regions. They will cover the following topics:"

Effectiveness in the Charity Sector | eGov monitor

Effectiveness in the Charity Sector | eGov monitor: "Effectiveness in the Charity Sector
Source: Charity Commission
Published Friday, 2 June, 2006 - 11:18
Story tools
Print this articlePrint this article
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Could collaborative working be the way forward?

Guidance launched today by the Charity Commission provides advice for charities thinking about doing just that. To help promote greater effectiveness in the sector, the regulator is calling on charities to review regularly how they can deliver a better service for their users, and to think creatively about how they can best do this."

SocietyGuardian.co.uk | Voluntary sector | Later retirement means less volunteers, survey finds

SocietyGuardian.co.uk | Voluntary sector | Later retirement means less volunteers, survey finds: "Later retirement means fewer volunteers, survey finds

Adharanand Finn
Thursday June 1, 2006

Almost 70% of working people say the government's announcement last week that the state pension age is set to increase to 68 by 2050 means they will be less likely to volunteer when they retire.

The findings of the YouGov survey will come as a blow to the voluntary sector as it marks the launch of Volunteers' Week today."

Thursday, June 01, 2006

Table of Contents - IJNL Vol. 8 Iss. 3

Table of Contents - IJNL Vol. 8 Iss. 3: "The International Journal
of Not-for-Profit Law
Volume 8, Issue 3, May 2006
A quarterly publication of the International Center for Not-for-Profit Law
Table of Contents

Letter from the Editor
Special Section: Russia and the Newly Independent States

Some Issues Related to Russia's New NGO Law
Natalia Bourjaily

Civil Society and Philanthropy Under Putin
Alexander Livshin and Richard Weitz

Philanthropy in Russian Society Today "

IRIN Asia | Asia | UZBEKISTAN | UZBEKISTAN: US NGO closed, two more under scrutiny | Children-Democracy-Environment-Human Rights | Breaking News

IRIN Asia | Asia | UZBEKISTAN | UZBEKISTAN: US NGO closed, two more under scrutiny | Children-Democracy-Environment-Human Rights | Breaking News: "ZBEKISTAN: US NGO closed, two more under scrutiny

[ This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations]

TASHKENT, 1 Jun 2006 (IRIN) - A court in Uzbekistan on Thursday ordered the closure of the local office of a US-funded educational organisation for violating domestic laws, including the constitution.

A French aid group and a Hungarian charity are also under scrutiny as the Central Asian country continues to crack down on foreign NGOs in the country.

The Tashkent civil court ordered the liquidation of the American Council for Collaboration in Education and Language Study (ACCELS) for repeatedly violating domestic regulations, press-uz.infor, a pro-government internet site said."

UNV Online Volunteering

UNV Online Volunteering: "Thanks to Jim Flewker, a retired teacher from Northern England and online volunteer, the “Coalition of non governmental organizations (NGO) in Sokoto state” (CONSS), has recently launched their first website.

Sokoto state is located in the north-west corner of Nigeria, on the edge of the Saharan desert region. CONSS is a network of local organizations dealing with diverse development issues, ranging from HIV/AIDS to education to environment, who can now communicate their many activities to an external audience"

Wednesday, May 31, 2006

The ChronicleHerald.ca

The ChronicleHerald.ca: "UNICEF drops Halloween collection box campaign

TORONTO (CP) — The 50-year tradition of trick-or-treaters collecting coins in orange boxes has ended after UNICEF decided to cancel its door-to-door Halloween campaign."

globeandmail.com : Gold magnate gives $37-million to Toronto General

globeandmail.com : Gold magnate gives $37-million to Toronto General: "Gold magnate gives $37-million to Toronto General

JAMES RUSK

Gold magnate Peter Munk gave Toronto General Hospital $37-million yesterday, the largest gift ever to a Canadian hospital."

Philanthropy in the Caribbean - JAMAICAOBSERVER.COM

Philanthropy in the Caribbean - JAMAICAOBSERVER.COM: "One often hears that philanthropy is alien to the Caribbean and that people in the Caribbean are not spontaneously generous. Such assertions defy credulity. Caribbean peoples are inherently gregarious, extroverted and benevolent."

SocietyGuardian.co.uk | Voluntary sector | Israel accuses British-funded Islamic charity of being front for terrorists

SocietyGuardian.co.uk | Voluntary sector | Israel accuses British-funded Islamic charity of being front for terrorists: "Israel accuses British-funded Islamic charity of being front for terrorists

· Gaza head deported and accused of funding Hamas
· Expulsion a 'mixture of confusion and malice'

Chris McGreal in Jerusalem
Wednesday May 31, 2006
The Guardian

Israel has branded a major UK charity that receives millions of pounds in British government money as a terrorist front, accusing it of providing funds and assistance to Hamas, the armed group now in control of the Palestinian Authority."

Tuesday, May 30, 2006

TheStar.com - Make your charitable work meaningful

TheStar.com - Make your charitable work meaningful: "Larry Tanenbaum made headlines this month — and not just because of the sports teams he owns (Toronto Maple Leafs and Toronto Raptors).

The first major donor to use new tax rules in the federal budget, he gave a $50 million gift of stock to the Jewish Foundation of Greater Toronto.

'I am hopeful that my gift will inspire others to consider donating to public charities,' he was quoted as saying"

Rich 200 getting richer – and more generous (May 25, 2006)

Rich 200 getting richer – and more generous (May 25, 2006): "Rich 200 getting richer – and more generous
Melissa Singer

THEY may be getting richer, but some of the 30-plus Jews on this year’s BRW magazine Rich 200 list are also among the country’s most generous philanthropists.

Australia’s richest Jew, Westfield boss Frank Lowy, increased his wealth this year to $5.4 billion. Lowy, 74, who fled Nazi-occupied Europe, retains his number-two position on the list behind James Packer, who inherited his father Kerry’s media empire following his death in December 2005.

In third position, cardboard king Richard Pratt increased his wealth by $500 million to $5.2 billion in the same year he received an honorary doctorate from Israel’s Ben-Gurion University for philanthropy and his contribution to water research in the southern Negev. Pratt, 71, also supports a range of Jewish and non-Jewish causes through the Pratt Foundation, which donates an estimated $12 million each year."

VITA non profit online [ARTICLE: "Ukraine: EC micro program supports ONGs"]

VITA non profit online [ARTICLE: "Ukraine: EC micro program supports ONGs"]: "The European Commission's micro-grant program for the support of Ukrainian Grassroot NGOs “Further Strengthening of Civil Society” has started the implementation phase in spring 2006. The program is designed for socially oriented NGOs from different regions of Ukraine. "

Friday, May 26, 2006

INSIDE JoongAng Daily-The dead can donate to charity

INSIDE JoongAng Daily: "The dead can donate to charity

May 27, 2006 ã…¡ A growing number of Korean insurers, as part of marketing linked to charity, are rolling out 'donation insurance policies,' through which policyholders can donate their death benefits to charity groups.
Meritz Fire & Marine Insurance Co. introduced last week an individual damage insurance policy in partnership with Korea Food for the Hungry International, a local charity group."

Belfast Telegraph-Charity lottery opens bid to go online in Ulster

Belfast Telegraph: "Charity lottery opens bid to go online in Ulster
Hain asked to have legislation changed
26 May 2006

Hundreds of Ulster charities received a boost today as it emerged that steps are being taken to bring an online fundraising lottery to Northern Ireland.

The organisers of Play Monday, which was devised to raise millions for charity, are hoping to meet the Secretary of State to discuss the possibility of bringing the unique fundraising initiative to Northern Ireland."

ReliefWeb » South Asia: Tsunami recovery - Taking stock after 12 months

ReliefWeb » Document Preview » South Asia: Tsunami recovery - Taking stock after 12 months: "Tsunami recovery:
Executive Summary"

Independent Online Edition > This Britain-Conspicuous giving: And it's all in a good cause

Independent Online Edition > This Britain: "Conspicuous giving: And it's all in a good cause
From a £60,000 Kate Moss kiss to an ill-advised £400 signed copy of the Hutton report, auctions have become a high-profile but essential source of funds for charities. Jonathan Brown reports
Published: 26 May 2006

It is a world of glamour, unbridled luxury and lavish excess. A place where celebrities and the mega-rich can relax, mingle with their own kind and flash a little bit of their hard-earned cash - all of it, of course, in a good cause.

The charity auction has become one of the places to be seen in recent years and the summer season of conspicuous giving is well and truly upon us.

For the charities battling for the hearts, minds and wallets of the giving public, raising cash and battling donor fatigue is an ongoing struggle. From cancer research to Aids, child welfare to the environment, the ability to fill a room with well-heeled, well-oiled and, most importantly, generous donors has become central to the fund-raising effort.

The core of the strategy is being able to pack a fashionable venue with an A-list of guests. Salesmen and women are put to work to sell the tables. City firms are obvious targets, home to many high-rollers. A typical table for an up-market bash can start at £5,000.

The next step is to stock up with a range of 'money can't buy' lots. According to Stewart Edmonds of Terrence Higgins Trust, an exclusive experience, rather than an item that once belonged to a celebrity, always proves the biggest draw.

For example, he says, Terrence Higgins Trust, thanks to its close relations with George Michael's partner Kenny Goss, was able to offer a night out with the couple that reached £10,000 under intense bidding. Another of its most successful offers has been taking tea with Joan Rivers or dinner at the House of Lords with Lord Archer. 'The auction format is now fundamental to our fund-raising programme and it is a fun way to"

Thursday, May 25, 2006

Iraqi Charities Plant Seed of Civil Society - New York Times

Iraqi Charities Plant Seed of Civil Society - New York Times: "In the wave of lawlessness and frantic self-interest that has washed over this war-weary nation, small acts of pure altruism often go unnoticed.

Christoph Bangert/Polaris, for The New York Times

Najat al-Saiedi, right, delivering clothing for children in the Shoala neighborhood in Baghdad. She founded a group called Bilad al Rafidain — or Mesopotamian — Orphan Relief. More Photos »

Like the tiny track suits and dresses that Najat al-Saiedi takes to children of displaced families in the dusty, desperate Shiite slum of Shoala. Or the shelter that Suad al-Khafaji gives to, among others, the five children she found living in a garage in northern Baghdad last year."

OneWorld South Asia Home / News / News:Today's Headlines - Government has failed people: Indian NGOs

OneWorld South Asia Home / News / News:Today's Headlines - Government has failed people: Indian NGOs: "Government has failed people: Indian NGOs
New Delhi: Manmohan Singh’s government has failed poor people, scoring below passing marks in employment, education, health and social equity among other main promises made in the Common Minimum Programme (CMP), two years back.

Releasing the progress report on two years of the UPA government, over 250 civil society organisations from across 14 states under the banner of `Wada Na Todo Abhiyan’ (WNTA – Keep your Promises Campaign), a national NGO coalition, said that precious little has been achieved during the last year. The government needs to put in extra efforts to translate its good intentions into visible results on the ground, both in cities and in villages.

The progress report, made to appear like a true school report card complete with an examination board titled, `Civil Society Board for Governance Accountability’, gives the UPA government an aggregate of only 2.96 out of a total of 10 marks. The government scores the maximum in governance – 3.35 out of 10 – yet fails to pass. It scores 3.27 in education; 2.7 in health; 2.42 in social exclusion and discrimination; 3 in land, livelihoods and displacement and 3.05 in human rights and secularism. "

News-"SSIA-holders urged to give small amounts to charity

News: "SSIA-holders urged to give small amounts to charity
Aid agency Concern is urging SSIA-holders to consider giving some of their savings to help people in the developing world."

Do Not Call Register legislation introduced - Government/Law - www.itnews.com.au

Do Not Call Register legislation introduced - Government/Law - www.itnews.com.au: "Do Not Call Register legislation introduced
By Staff Writers, CRN 25 May 2006 10:51 AEST Government/Law

“An end to nuisance calls has moved a step closer to reality with the introduction of legislation to create a $33 million national Do Not Call Register, however the initiative will still be an illusion to many.”

The Do Not Call Register Bill 2006 and the Do Not Call Register (Consequential
Amendments) Bill 2006 will facilitate a national register allowing individuals to opt-out from receiving unsolicited telemarketing calls."

Gulf Times – Qatar’s top-selling English daily newspaper - Qatar

Gulf Times – Qatar’s top-selling English daily newspaper - Qatar: "REPRESENTATIVES of non-governmental organisations (NGOs) yesterday urged the Arab Organisa-tion for Administrative Development to make the symposium on the ‘Role of NGOs in Sustainable Development’ an annual event.

Releasing a communique at the end of a three-day seminar on ‘The role of NGOs in sustainable development’ in Doha yesterday, Sudan-based Al-Zubayr Charity president Othman al-Zubayr said it was essential to enhance the performance of Arab NGOs."

Wednesday, May 24, 2006

U-M seeks alumni in China

U-M seeks alumni in China: "U-M seeks alumni in China
Association delegation hopes to broaden global base of support
Wednesday, May 24, 2006
BY DAVE GERSHMAN
News Staff Reporter

China has again beckoned for top University of Michigan officials - and this time a delegation from the alumni association is making the trip to host receptions in Beijing, Shanghai and Hong Kong for Chinese alumni this week.

The visit comes nearly one year after U-M President Mary Sue Coleman led an 11-person delegation last June to sign agreements on academic and research efforts with four Chinese universities.

This time, alumni officials are leading the trip to China, hoping to re-establish ties to alumni there who can support the university's ambitions."

NGOs look to management and media skills, boards, in leadership transition | China Development Brief

NGOs look to management and media skills, boards, in leadership transition | China Development Brief: "NGOs look to management and media skills, boards, in leadership transition
Wed, 2006-05-24 15:27
Civil Society

As China’s first generation of NGOs look back on ten or more years of growth in a shifting, but invariably difficult, policy context, several of them are also wrestling with the equally challenging issue of leadership succession.

It was Friends of Nature—one of the first independent NGOs to be established in reform-era China, back in 1994—that took the first, and perhaps most decisive, step towards leadership transition."

Channelnewsasia.com-this year's SGX Bull Run going to the dogs

Channelnewsasia.com: "this year's SGX Bull Run going to the dogs
By Ng Bao Ying, Channel NewsAsia



SINGAPORE : The Singapore Exchange's third annual charity fun run takes a new twist this year -- alongside stock brokers and executives will be man's best friend.

This year's Bull Run borrows from Spain's San Fermin festival, when bulls are let out to run down cobbled streets.

In Singapore, however, dogs will replace bulls and accompany their owners as they run around the Central Business District. "

TODAYonline

TODAYonline: "The line between defamation and debate
Defence of reputation, free speech calls for a delicate balance of interests

Thomas Koshy

'PRACTICAL politics consists in ignoring facts,' American historian Henry Adams said over a century ago. But time and again, ignoring the facts has been shown to be a perilous path to take in Singapore politics.
.
This was seen most recently when, faced with the prospect of having to defend their statements in court, 10 out of the 12 Singapore Democratic Party (SDP) Central Executive Committee (CEC) members apologised and withdrew statements made in relation to the National Kidney Foundation saga.
.
The party has since also decided not to file its defence and has discharged its lawyer, who continues to represent Dr Chee Soon Juan and his sister in the lawsuit.
.
The loss of credibility and apparent breaking of ranks, which earned the SDP the moniker 'Slowly Disintegrating Party', probably contributed in no small part to the party — which was once the leader of the Opposition — ending up as the last choice of the people in the General Election.
.
With the many defamation suits filed against members of Opposition parties in the past, Singaporeans probably felt a sense of deja vu as matters unfolded against the CEC members. Invoking defamation laws to prevent falsehoods from gaining currency has been a consistent strategy employed by the ruling party.
.
By contrast, the Workers' Party (WP) demonstrated a rather different tack when the character of its members came under attack. It took the stance that Singaporeans are mature, they can think for themselves and come to their own conclusions.
.
This was a clever stroke that was sure to charm some, telling Singaporeans who are used to paternalistic, if not patronising, treatment, that they were mature enough to decide for themselves.
.
After the elections, the legal investigations into whether Mr Gomez had committed offences of criminal intimidation, giving false i"

Xinhua - English-Fostering a charity culture

Xinhua - English: "BEIJING, May 24 -- Increased public awareness of the role played by charity is vital in the development of philanthropic undertakings in China, says a signed article in People's Daily. An excerpt follows:

More than 3,000 foreigners who benefited from Chinese financial aid attended a charity function in Tianjin last Thursday.

Jointly sponsored by organizations including the China Charity Federation, the Red Cross Society of China, China Disabled Persons' Federation, the Ministry of Education, the State Administration of Sport and the All-China Federation of Industry and Commerce, the event attracted much public attention as one of China's largest charity activities aimed at offering help overseas."

Philanthropy and the Saudi Experience

Philanthropy and the Saudi Experience: "hilanthropy and the Saudi Experience
Michael Saba, sabamps@aol.com


Try googling “Saudi” and “charity” together. Almost all of the hits tell you stories of alleged illicit activities by Saudi charities funding terrorism and almost every other dastardly activity that you can imagine, supposedly being performed with Saudi charitable funds. You have to go way down on the list before you find anything even vaguely positive about Saudis and charitable activities. This week, however, a news article did make the papers about Saudi benevolence. The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia was affirmed by the United Nations World Food Program (WFP) for having recently given $10 million for draught relief in the Horn of Africa. And that act is not unusual for the Saudis."

SocietyGuardian.co.uk | Voluntary sector | Cause for complaint

SocietyGuardian.co.uk | Voluntary sector | Cause for complaint: "Cause for complaint

Charities aren't obliged to provide a complaints procedure - but they should, says Jane Muir

Wednesday May 24, 2006
The Guardian

Pressing a coin into the outstretched palm of a street beggar, you also hand him a feedback form with a series of questions: 'How did I make you feel when I gave you my loose change? Was anything in my general attitude patronising or rude? How was it for you to have to ask for money in the first place?'

A feedback form might seem a little over the top in that particular instance, but a new report, Cause for Complaint, launched today by the Charity Commission, recommends that more charities might consider formulating a complaints procedure for their users. As a parent of a disabled child dependent on charity for many of his mobility, communication and lifestyle needs, I think it is a good idea."

Tuesday, May 23, 2006

UK Fundraising | News | Co-operative Bank handles online donations at Charity Choice

UK Fundraising | News | Co-operative Bank handles online donations at Charity Choice: "o-operative Bank handles online donations at Charity Choice
by Howard Lake
23 May 2006

The Co-operative Bank and online charity directory Charity Choice have launched an online donation service that is available, free of charge, to all UK registered charities.


Charity Choice's online directory attracts over 99,000 visitors each month, but very few of them were able to make donations to charities listed on the site because so few charities had the facilities for taking online donations.

As a result Charity Choice, part of the Wilmington Group plc, approached the Co-operative Bank to establish an online donation service for all charities listed on the site.
"

Telegraph | Entertainment | On radio: how to get a millionaire to give you money

Telegraph | Entertainment | On radio: how to get a millionaire to give you money: "On radio: how to get a millionaire to give you money
(Filed: 23/05/2006)

The BBC's man in Washington is authoritative, informed, concise and witty, writes Gillian Reynolds

We are all fundraisers now. Turn up at a school reunion, visit a museum, go to church, open this morning's letters and you will not only be asked for money but feel obliged to ask other people for it too.

Anyone who ever fantasised about marrying money now only longs for a millionaire to come along and buy all the raffle tickets. How good to hear, on Matt Frei's An Embarrassment of Riches (Radio 4, Friday), that such millionaires not only exist, but give and go on giving."

Donating shares to charity

Donating shares to charity: "Donating shares to charity




Terry McBride, Special to The StarPhoenix
Published: Tuesday, May 23, 2006

When you support a worthy cause by making a charitable gift, you can also reduce fees and taxes levied on your estate. But before writing a cheque, you should review your stock portfolio first. You could be much better off from donating stocks that have gone up instead of writing a cheque.

You would pay income tax needlessly if you were to sell stocks first and then hand over the cash proceeds to charity."

Ford Foundation Is Criticized on Mideast Funding - May 23, 2006 - The New York Sun - NY News

Ford Foundation Is Criticized on Mideast Funding - May 23, 2006 - The New York Sun - NY News: "Ford Foundation Is Criticized on Mideast Funding

By SHLOMO GREENWALD - Special to the Sun
May 23, 2006
A D V E R T I S E M E N T

Three years after the Ford Foundation's grants to anti-Israel groups prompted a furor in Congress, the $10 billion New York-based philanthropy is at it again, according to a report by the NGO Monitor, an Israel-based organization overseen by Israel's former ambassador to the United Nations, Dore Gold."

Monday, May 22, 2006

Taiwan

Taiwan: "Hundreds of people climb 101 for charity

2006/5/22
By Carmen Russell The China Post


Despite boasting the fastest elevators in the world, hundreds of people voluntarily climbed the stairs of Taipei 101 yesterday. It wasn't a fire drill or an emergency panic, but rather an event to for the local and foreign community to raise money for charitable causes.

Organized by The Canadian Society of Taiwan, the first 'Charity Climbathon at Taipei 101,' raised more than NT$1.8 million, well over the stated goal of NT$1 million.

Entrants were required obtain sponsors of more than NT$2,000 total per person in order to participate in the event. However, individuals and teams who raised the most money, were awarded with prizes, such as one-year memberships to California Fitness and all-expense trips to Hong Kong and Japan."

Bloomberg.com: Japan-Hedge Fund, Alternative Asset Managers to Start Charity in Asia

Bloomberg.com: Japan: "Hedge Fund, Alternative Asset Managers to Start Charity in Asia

May 22 (Bloomberg) -- Hedge fund managers in Asia are showing their soft side by setting up a charity, the first of its kind in the region.

Returns Invested in Children and Education, or RICE, will also raise money for minors in developing nations from private equity funds, investment banks, prime brokers and family offices.

``We see a need for the hedge fund industry, which in some respects makes an outlandish profit, to give some of that back into charity and back into the society,'' said Michael Nock, who oversees about $500 million at Doric Capital Corp. in Hong Kong."

SocietyGuardian.co.uk | Voluntary sector | Tough at the top

SocietyGuardian.co.uk | Voluntary sector | Tough at the top: "Tough at the top

Being the chief executive of a voluntary organisation is no walk in the park, says Debra Tyler

Monday May 22, 2006

There is a saying that some people achieve greatness and some have greatness thrust upon them. The latter is often true for voluntary sector chief executives, many of who end up in a senior leadership position entirely by accident.

Yet, despite this, most of them take on the enormous burden of their role cheerfully, passionately and willingly. This is because they care deeply about the work of their organisations and the massive difference they make, not just to people's lives, but to society as a whole. In the course of researching my book, It's Tough At The Top, and during my mentoring and training activities, I have spoken with hundreds of chief executives. Many of them have been profoundly positive about their roles and the demands of the job. But nonetheless the challenges they face are considerable."

Guardian Unlimited | UK Latest | Blair signals charities expansion

Guardian Unlimited | UK Latest | Blair signals charities expansion: "Blair signals charities expansion

Press Association
Saturday May 20, 2006 1:03 AM

Tony Blair has signalled a major expansion of the role of charities and voluntary organisations in the provision of public services.

In a letter to new Social Exclusion Minister Hilary Armstrong setting out her key priorities, the Prime Minister said that he wanted to see a 'step change' in the involvement of the so-called 'third sector' within a year."

Ottawa Business Journal - Home Page

Ottawa Business Journal - Home Page: "Corporate philanthropy: More than just writing a cheque
By Kristin Harold, Ottawa Business Journal Staff
Mon, May 22, 2006 12:00 AM EST

Elvis, aka Trevor McDonald. (Darren Brown, OBJ)

Trevor McDonald usually shows up for work at local law firm Nelligan O'Brien Payne in a suit and tie, but there have been recent sightings of him dressed in full Elvis regalia, sequins and all.

'We try to bring some fun and enthusiasm to our United Way campaign every year,' says the hip-swinging associate lawyer. 'Some of our partners agreed last year to shave their heads if we met a certain goal and I agreed to dress as Elvis. I sang a song to the tune of 'My Way', but I called it 'United Way' and instead of saying 'I did it my way', I sang 'I gave to the United Way.''"

File Early - A Challenge to the sector

File Early - A Challenge to the sector: "File Early - A challenge to the sector

Charities have to file key documents with us within 10 months of the end of their financial year. It’s a legal requirement, yet a quarter of all charities continue to miss this deadline and file late. These charities have a combined annual income of £6 billion – a massive chunk of charity money not accounted for on time. Many who do comply only file in the last month possible.

With a significant public interest in charity accountability, charities simply have to do better. Our online register is changing, making it easier for visitors to see which charities have filed promptly and which are overdue. Please visit our website at www.charitycommission.gov.uk. Charities have a responsibility to be transparent and tell the public about what they are achieving and the impact they are making. Those who continue to file late do themselves no favours – with the donating public, with funders or with us."

Friday, May 19, 2006

Charities Aid Foundation - News centre

Charities Aid Foundation - News centre

AsiaMedia :: SINGAPORE: Two SDP leaders resign as party's fate hangs in balance

AsiaMedia :: SINGAPORE: Two SDP leaders resign as party's fate hangs in balance: "SINGAPORE: Two SDP leaders resign as party's fate hangs in balance

Singapore Democratic Party leaders send in resignation letters after having made apologies for newsletter defamation

Straits Times
Friday, May 19, 2006

By Aaron Low

Two leaders of the Singapore Democratic Party (SDP) have thrown in the towel even as the fate of their party hangs in the balance after its leadership decided not to fight a lawsuit brought against them by two People's Action Party (PAP) leaders.

Mr Kwan Yue Keng told The Straits Times yesterday that he and Mr Abdul Rasheed Abdul Kuthus sent in their resignation letters to party chief Chee Soon Juan earlier this month.

Both were among the initial four who apologised to Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong and Minister Mentor Lee Kuan Yew for defaming them in articles written in the party's newsletter."

Crikey Website - Wealthy Australian philanthropists

Crikey Website - Wealthy Australian philanthropists: "Wealthy Australian philanthropists

Jane Nethercote and Marika Webb-Pullman write:

The BRW Rich List is all about who gets the most – but isn't it time to start looking at who gives the most?

Date: 19 May 2006

Crikey has compiled a list of wealthy Australian philanthropists who donate publicly, a list which is inevitably incomplete because it doesn't include many people who give their donations anonymously. "

Thursday, May 18, 2006

Taking counsel: Stricter regulations of charity, sponsorship

Taking counsel: Stricter regulations of charity, sponsorship: "Taking counsel: Stricter regulations of charity, sponsorship

May 17, 2006
By Kestutis Puscius
After Seimas (Lithuania’s parliament) amended the Law on Charity and Sponsorship and the Law on Corporate Income Tax, regulations of providing charity and sponsorship has become stricter and new rules for the taxation of charity and sponsorship have been implemented.
"

Independent Online Edition > Gap Year

Independent Online Edition > Gap Year: "Geraldine Peacock: Charities need more diverse trustee boards
By the Chair of the Charity Commission
Published: 17 November 2005

The year of the Volunteer is drawing to its close and all the evidence is that it's been a real success - tapping into a mood and a need in society to give something back. The Commission seized on this opportunity to make a push to encourage people to become charity trustees - the people who govern the 190,000 charities in England and Wales.

We've teamed up with volunteer charity TimeBank for Get on Board, a campaign to encourage people to come forward as trustees. We're also dispelling a few myths about trusteeship. You don't have to be retired, middle-aged and middle class to contribute to a charity you care about. And you don't have to wait to be asked.

Trustees have a wide remit. It's their job to make sure their charity stays solvent and does the things it was set up to do. They also make sure charities meet their legal obligations - such as the timely submission of accounts and annual returns to the Charity Commission. The role can be hard and is usually unpaid - but the personal rewards can be huge.

We want people on trustee boards to be as diverse as the charities they represent. Currently, half of all trustees are over 40 years old and relatively few come from ethnic minorities. We want to broaden this to include younger people from a range of backgrounds.

Because if young people don't step forward now, who will govern the charities of the future? The early results from Get on Board give me confidence we're on the right track. In less than three months over 1,600 people have registered with the campaign. Around threequarters of these are under the age of 45, compared with just one-quarter of currently serving trustees and a quarter of those who signed up are people from minority ethnic backgrounds.

From the world of business to the public sector, more organisati"

Wednesday, May 17, 2006

CTV.ca | Cdn. schools too dependent on fundraising: groups

CTV.ca | Cdn. schools too dependent on fundraising: groups: "Cdn. schools too dependent on fundraising: groups

Updated Tue. May. 16 2006 11:36 PM ET

Canadian Press

TORONTO -- Canadian public schools are selling chocolate bars, scented candles and ad space in hallways and bathroom stalls to cover the cost of even their most basic needs, like plumbing repairs, a new cross-Canada survey has found.

The survey of 3,100 elementary and high schools across Canada, conducted in 2004, suggests that 60 per cent of elementary facilities are forced to raise funds from parents and other sources in order to stock their libraries with books."

Opposition party members apologise

Opposition party members apologise: "Opposition party members apologise

SIX opposition party members threatened with defamation lawsuits by Singapore's Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong and his Cabinet minister father Lee Kuan Yew have apologised and agreed to pay damages, a newspaper reported yesterday.

The Singapore Democratic Party leaders, including chairman Ling How Doong, agreed on settlement terms with the city-state's two leaders at a closed-door hearing on Monday, The Straits Times reported. "

Sponsorship not evil

Sponsorship not evil: "Sponsorship not evil



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The Leader-Post
Published: Wednesday, May 17, 2006

Should schools looking for cash to enhance their programs be embracing corporate sponsors with the message 'we're open for business'?

It's a difficult issue that school trustees, principals and teachers grapple with across the country. Purists say education should be funded solely by tax dollars, while others see no harm in corporations pitching in with equipment or cash in return for a little public exposure.

According to a survey conducted by teachers' unions and the Canadian Centre for Policy Alternatives (CCPA), 32 per cent of Canadian schools report the presence of advertising in or on the school, 15 per cent of elementary schools and 30 per cent of secondary schools have corporate partnership or sponsorship agreements and 27 per cent of all schools had exclusive marketing arrangements with Coke or Pepsi."

VITA non profit online [ARTICLE: "Europe: facilitating Cross-Border Philanthropy"]

VITA non profit online [ARTICLE: "Europe: facilitating Cross-Border Philanthropy"]: "Europe: facilitating Cross-Border Philanthropy

di Redazione (redazione@vita.it)

15/05/2006

Ludwig Forrest, of the King Baudouin Foundation, reports on the challeng of facilitating cross-border philanthropy



It is well-known that most EU countries do not provide incentives for donors wanting to support a foreign beneficiary. Income tax deductibility is not granted for donations made by individuals and corporate donors to foreign beneficiaries, while cross-border donations and legacies are often taxed at the highest applicable gift and inheritance tax rates.

The launch of the www.givingineurope.org website and the promotion and extension of the Transnational Giving Europe (TGE) network are two important initiatives from the King Baudouin Foundation to improve the environment of cross-border philanthropy in Europe. This article focuses on TGE. "

Tuesday, May 16, 2006

Democracy, Elections & Human Rights in Azerbaijan

Democracy, Elections & Human Rights in Azerbaijan: "“NGO Should Adhere to Certain Political Position”
16.05.2006


Azay Guliyev: “They are obliged to promote development of civil society”
“In Azerbaijan, as in the whole world, there are institutes with different field of activity. Such structures function in line with their subdivisions. It means that entrepreneurs are involved with business, and political parties are involved with political activities. NGOs are obliged to work to build civil society and to promote development. It would be wrong, if some of them acted outside the given principles”."

Quebec, rural areas lag behind Ottawa in learning index

Quebec, rural areas lag behind Ottawa in learning index: "he Ottawa region tops the nation with a 6.9 rating on the 'learning to live together' pillar, which measures charitable giving, volunteerism and memberships in clubs and associations. And its 6.8 rating trails only Calgary on the 'learning to be' pillar, which assesses spending on reading, sports, museums, the performing arts and the Internet.

Once again, the Outaouais and, especially, the Kingston-Pembroke region fare more poorly. On the 'learning to be' pillar, for example, Kingston-Pembroke's score of 4.6 is well below the provincial average."

Tax-efficient charitable giving | This is Money

Tax-efficient charitable giving | This is Money: "Tax-efficient charitable giving

If you want to donate money to charity and good causes there are many ways to go about it. And for taxpayers, if you choose the right payment method you can make sure the gift is tax-efficient too.

While popping a few pounds in a donation box from time to time is welcomed by charities, they will gain more from your gift if you donate through a designated scheme, such as payroll giving or Gift Aid."

Monday, May 15, 2006

Taiwan

Taiwan: "Mayor Ma has given NT$53 mil. to charity

2006/5/14
The China Post staff


Supporters of Taipei Mayor Ma Ying-jeou yesterday encouraged all political figures in Taiwan to learn from Ma, who has donated as much as NT$53 million to charity in recent years.

Ma's family assets became a target of tit-for-tat attacks from the ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) as more people were shocked by the alleged financial scams involving President Chen Shui-bian's family and relatives.

Ma was forced to renew his clarification, saying that he already donated some NT$47 million in government subsidies from two elections for Taipei mayor."

Prince of Wales pledges charity help - UK News Headlines

Prince of Wales pledges charity help - UK News Headlines: "Prince of Wales pledges charity help
Monday, 15th May 2006, 09:08
The Prince of Wales said it would be criminal not to help the needy in Britain.

Charles gave an interview to former newsreader Sir Trevor McDonald as part of a television documentary to celebrate the 30th anniversary of The Prince's Trust.

The frank chat revealed that he sees charitable work as his duty and he pays tribute to the support from his wife, the Duchess of Cornwall.

And he said that his awful experience of boarding school at Gordonstoun inspired his Prince's Trust.
"

The Observer | Magazine | Giving it large

The Observer | Magazine | Giving it large: "Giving it large

Are charity consultants squeezing us dry?

John Hind
Sunday May 14, 2006
The Observer

The trend in the world of charity is for more and more charity money to be spent on advice and training on how to 'harness the power of giving'. This is achieved by hiring fundraising consultants and attending their workshops. In June, the UK's Association of Fundraising Consultants will hold its first conference (at the Lansdowne Club, Berkeley Square), at which much celebration is expected over the booming business prospects for these professionals, who charge up to £2,000 per day for 'maximising charity'."

Friday, May 12, 2006

Canadian nonprofit governance examined - Philanthropy Journal-Your online source for news about nonprofits, social issues, and policy change

Canadian nonprofit governance examined - Philanthropy Journal-Your online source for news about nonprofits, social issues, and policy change: "Canadian nonprofit governance examined

Many nonprofits struggle to keep up with changing rules, study says.

05.12.2006 -

Nonprofit boards in Canada are working hard to strengthen their governance practices, but changing regulations and trends make it difficult for many to keep up, a new study says.

The report, a nationwide study of nonprofit board governance practices in Canada, was conducted by Toronto-based Strategic Leverage Partners, in partnership with the Centre for Voluntary Sector Research and Development in Ottawa."

EU opposes annual NGO registration, brought to you by African News Dimension

EU opposes annual NGO registration, brought to you by African News Dimension: "EU opposes annual NGO registration

May 12, 2006, 10 hours, 19 minutes and 47 seconds ago.

By ANDnetwork .com

THE European Union is opposed to the requirement by the government that non governmental organisations should renew their registration regularly with the Ministry of Internal Affairs.

The Head of Delegation of the European Union Commission, Mr Sigurd Illing, yesterday told journalists that the requirement was “superfluous” and “unnecessary.”

“We have not quite understood what the reason for this could be because our feeling was that NGOs are already duly registered and that should be sufficient. Why should this now be reviewed?” he asked.

“We feel this is superfluous and there is no need to do that. We do not think this is necessary.”"

IOL: Execs to compete in 'rat race' for charity

IOL: Execs to compete in 'rat race' for charity: "Hong Kong - Hong Kong's city executives are to be given a chance to show just how tough they are in the real world by competing in a 'rat race' for charity.

The race, modelled on similar ones in New York, Sydney and Toronto, will see teams of eight executives, wearing suits and using briefcases as batons, scramble through a 2,5-kilometre course in the city centre, battling obstacles as they go."

Thursday, May 11, 2006

Charities Aid Foundation - News centre-One-stop shop' for charity queries

Charities Aid Foundation - News centre

One-stop shop' for charity queries

The Charity Commission has announced the creation of a 'one-stop shop' for all its enquiries, to be launched on May 16th this year.

Charity Commission Direct, which will be based in Liverpool, was decided upon as a means of implementing the "change of focus and direction" posited in the Commission's strategic review, and aims to provide answers to charity-related queries faster and more efficiently.

The brand-new service will be the main channel for enquiries of any kind received via phone, fax or email, and a dedicated helpline will be in place to deal with enquiries from trustees relying on the Commission's advice.

Food bank concept finally taking root in the CR

Food bank concept finally taking root in the CR: "Food bank concept finally taking root in the CR
By: Jaroslav Schejbal, 02. 05. 2006

Prague has seen the creation of its first food bank: people in need will be provided with free food at the first warehouse of the Czech Food Bank Federation (ÄŒFPB) from a site based in Prague 10 – HostivaÅ™.

“Food banks are non-profit associations. They don’t buy the food, they acquire it free from producers, distributors and retail chains, and also from public donations,” explains the volunteer director of the organization, Fabrice Martin Plichta, a French journalist living in Prague. Producers and grocers may claim a tax deduction on the donated items, he noted most goods collected and close to their sell-by date."

Tuesday, May 09, 2006

American Friends of Jamaica give to Charities - Jamaica Information Service

American Friends of Jamaica give to Charities - Jamaica Information Service: "Grants totalling US$566,765.45 (J$37 million) have been donated to 16 charities in Jamaica by the American Friends of Jamaica (AFJ).

The presentations were made on Friday, April 28, at a luncheon held at the Kingston residence of United States Ambassador to Jamaica, Her Excellency Brenda LaGrange Johnson."

Monday, May 08, 2006

Kuna site|Story page|Kuwait blessed with label of "world philanthropy leader...5/8/2006

Kuna site|Story page|Kuwait blessed with label of "world philanthropy l...5/8/2006: "Kuwait blessed with label of 'world philanthropy leader' - Al-Maatouq
REL-KUWAIT-PHILANTHROPY
Kuwait blessed with label of 'world philanthropy leader' - Al-Maatouq

KUWAIT, May 8 (KUNA) -- Kuwait is at the vanguard of states that drive on philanthropic action and this includes relief efforts to victims of crisis and disasters all over the world, Minister of Justice and Minister of Awqaf and Islamic Affairs Dr. Abdullah Al-Maatouq said here on Monday.

Addressing newsmen after opening the 10th meeting of the Kuwait-based International Islamic Charitable Organization (IICO), he said even in the most critical time Kuwait did not overlook its religious and relief duty and this signals the dedication of its innate philanthropy characteristic of its people."