What Would You Tell the World's Top Philanthropists?

May 20, 2009

What Would You Tell the World's Top Philanthropists?

The philanthropy world doesn’t yet know what Oprah Winfrey, Bill Gates, Ted Turner, Warren Buffett, and other top donors discussed during their secret meeting this month in New York.

But that isn’t stopping speculation about what this famous group of philanthropists decided.

According to a Chronicle report, the wealthy philanthropists gathered to trade ideas about how to raise the level of philanthropy in the world.

If you were advising this group, what would you tell them about how they could raise the level of philanthropy during these trying economic times? What can they, and others, be doing to help solve some of the world’s most pressing problems?

Click on the comments link below this post to share your thoughts.

— Peter Panepento

Comments

Invest in youth philanthropy and programs to get more teens and young adults involved in nonprofits. We need to teach the next generation that philanthropy is not only about writing checks, but donating your time and valuable skills to serve the greater world. As a young adult that works solely with nonprofits, I can’t stand to see my peers not care about anything but themselves or only helping out with causes to build their resumes. This is a problem that will continue to grow, and we will have fewer great philanthropists in the future.

— Simon May 20, 11:17 AM #
First, I would say Thank You!

I would also encourage them to take a serious look into venture philanthropy. If philanthropists in America can lay the groundwork to make good works profitable for private corporations, their impact can be multiplied exponentially and extended into perpetuity.

— Rachel Connors May 20, 11:22 AM #
I would encourage this group to think about ways to engage people at all income levels in philanthropy. Philanthropy is not just about writing big checks. Philanthropy is about promoting human welfare and contributing to the common good. Everyone can do that, no matter the size of their bank accounts.

— Stephanie Jacobs May 20, 11:32 AM #
Firstly I would like to say Blessings to you all.

I would ask this group to connect with the ordinary folks on the street who have got brilliant ideas & visions to do something HUGE in philanthropy but they lack the tools & support needed to accomplish that something HUGE and that support & tools are something which can be definitely provided by this group and if this group can provide that, then lots of folks who desperately need help right now can be helped. with Gods Love

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MAEIrp4MFBE#

— RAJESH SEMRETE SELASSIE AGGARWAL - FRSA May 20, 07:25 PM #
Thank you.
Thank you so very much.

Please encourage truth telling about those in need.

— Sherry Buckner May 20, 09:15 PM #
I’d just say, first, thank you for giving back. Because without the ‘masses’ watching your shows, buying your products, accepting your advice, you would not be the billionaires you are today. Your hearts show when you give back to the community, and that is honorable. And thank you for NOT being like the idiot CEO’s and Govt past, that have dragged our economy, our lives and our pride, down into the depths of the shame that America has become. YOU may be the truer leaders, use your gifts for the good and enjoy your own lives as well. Thanks

— until tomorrow May 20, 09:24 PM #
Right now we all need jobs. They need to emulate the thinking behind the successes of Roosevelt’s New Deal years and fund large projects that have been stalled because of the economy.

— Laura Lynn May 20, 09:37 PM #
First & foremost thank you. Second can you help promote jobs here in the US so that people can find work. Clean energy/turbines/solar etc. This will help people work. Pick several cities which have been desimated by losing an industry and promote their city. Thank God for people of high moral quality!

— Kay May 20, 09:53 PM #
Thank you. I have wondered if some of you would get together and pool your resources and wisdom. We show such compassion as individuals on an everyday basis and so often during times of natural or man-made disasters. But I pray that as a nation we find a way to live with integrity in our relationships with each other every single day. We will be blessed when we bless others. I am praying for you to find a way to promote civility and dignity—the things money cannot buy. Isn’t that ironic?

— a teacher May 20, 10:40 PM #
Are you all part of or in fact the Illuminati

— tom May 20, 11:25 PM #
Are they aware of the countless Americans losing their teeth? Unable to afford any kind of dental care, such that many decide to have them all pulled out? I am a Vietnam Vet, a 69 year old woman, on fixed income, that cannot get any kind of dental care help. The Veterans Administration doesn’t believe in helping Vets in this area either; and they stopped giving us eyeglasses as they did about six years ago.

— Sarah May 20, 11:26 PM #
Don’t know much about Philanthropy. But I would encourage them to pray for our contry and it’s leaders and encourage them to do unto others as they would have them do unto them

— William Lovett May 20, 11:36 PM #
philanthropists: Does the world really need them? Or is this a way to a one world government domination and control of the people? Let’s call them Illuminati instead of philanthropists.

— jim May 20, 11:40 PM #
I would remind them of the importance in laying the ethical groundwork for society so that their monetary donations could take fullest effect. They should do whatever they can to improve the quality of television programming, bringing more educational programs and less violence and sexual-content programs. And they should do whatever they can to remove hardcore porn from the internet and TV. Our society needs to grow spiritually. Next I would tell them to do what they can to protect investors from corporate officers and boards of directors who minimze returns to investors. There is great distrust of these vulture CEO’s who have already ruined many companies and individuals.

— Robert May 20, 11:41 PM #
Keep yor damn money and leave us the hell alone,

— greg safian May 21, 12:11 AM #
why do they meet in secret? if it’s about philanthropy it’s about doing good for everyone, right? what is the need for secrecy.

secondly, david rockefeller is a bad dude

— stephanie & moat May 21, 12:22 AM #
just one thing – drop dead you bunch of arrogant parasitic scumbags. Pay people actual living wages and live in ONE house like the rest of us and maybe I’d believe you aren’t just stroking yourselves off.

— Tom May 21, 12:26 AM #
I would ask the philanthropists to invest some of their money in programs that promote personal responsibility.

— Misha May 21, 12:56 AM #
I would ask them how they expect to fix a problem by simply ignoring it. Pretending to do good works, appearing to be in full standing against these so called economic crisis. Since they represent the problem,changing their entire perception of the world,and stop bleeding the people like vampires and actually take steps to abolish their new world order agenda, the federal reserve system, and terrorist organizations. They suck the life out of the people, starting with our liberty and independence. Rockefeller admitted these premises himself during an interview, the audacity to have him then state his charitable donations made over a time period. I guess it matters not how many people die by their hands so long as they donate to charities formed of people cast out of the atrocities that those tri laterals brought forth. Go to h*ll elitists, your day of reckoning, and unhindered befitting accountability is on the horizon.

— Troy May 21, 01:07 AM #
I would ask that a campaign get underway to unify America by promoting positive values (including honesty), kindness and courtesy to others, paying it forward, old-fashioned good manners, the importance of education, community service at all grade levels in our schools, media literacy in our schools,responsibility, accountability, etc. I am a clinical social worker in an urban school district and I reside in what has become a well-to-do seaside area (I am middle class) and therefore I am familiar with a vast spectrum of society. My concerns are spoiled, entitled, unmotivated, un- or under- educated children; enabling, harried, un- or under- involved parents; over concern with acquiring possessions; lack of concern for others; dishonesty as a norm; lack of responsibility and accountability with the expectation that the feds, state, others should provide for us and shoulder the responsibility when things go awry; etc. I am glad that Oprah and NBC News profile Americans helping other Americans. Oprah also promotes the importance of education, etc. (I often show students clips from her shows in an effort to impart on them the importance of education, profile people who overcame adversity despite the odds against them, etc.) If the media spent more time profiling and encouraging positive behavior, I believe that American values of family unity, responsibility for oneself, helping others, etc. would infect society and get our nation back on track. The constant onslaught (by an unprecedented amount of media) of negative, violent, depressing stories encourages similar behavior, anesthetizes us to the plight of others, and, simply put, makes people feel bad. We cannot eliminate all negative stories (nor would we want to, as they often educate and drive change), but we can stop sensationalizing every little negative detail and attempt to balance the scales with information that educates, as well as positive, uplifting stories that promote good feeling, faith in humanity and encourage and empower Americans to take responsibility for themselves, their future, their children and reach out with goodwill to other Americans.

— Beth May 21, 01:08 AM #
I would recommend that these philanthropists contribute in helping to save the American auto industry in whatever way possible. It appears that you are already helping tremendously in other parts of the world. America desperately needs its own auto industry.

— Delories M. Lincoln May 21, 01:43 AM #
To tell the world what GOD has given them their position in America. Was he christian if so state this to the world. Denounce all the other pagan gods.

— larry metcalf May 21, 01:57 AM #
I second the email about repeating FDRs New Deal. after all, if it hadn’t been for the first new deal, these folks probably wouldn’t have what they have now. If more people were able to have stable work and economic environments, they’d have more ability to contribut to philanthropic efforts. Hard to do if you’re working 2 or 3 jobs just to keep a roof over your head!!!!

— Cecelia May 21, 02:35 AM #
There are several things I would tell the billionaires and other wealthy people.

First, thank you for helping others.

Second, I do volunteer work for a helping society. It is very disappointing and depressing to see that so many people in my community need help with rent, or house payments, food, utilities and medicine. When someone has trouble paying rent due to job loss, all we can give them is $50. If they need food, we must refer them to the local food bank.

Third, charity should begin at home. Communities across the United States have people who are beset with conditions beyond their control, and in most cases not by their choosing.

Fourth, organizations such as Volunteers of America, Salvation Army, The Society of Saint Vincent de Paul, and other helping organizations are trying to help but do not have the money to help in any meaningful way.

Fifth, it is one thing to talk about help, it is another thing to be working in the trenches of the war on poverty.

Sixth, I want to encourage people with money, extra money, to get acquainted with the local helping agencies in their community or state.

For example, Mr. Gates, who helps so many people in other countries, and some in the U.S., might not realize the desperation of people in need who are living in Pierce, King and Snohomish counties.

Seventh, almost every Catholic Church has a St. Vincent De Paul group of helpers, who try to help all who ask, without regard to race, religion, etc. These helpers are in desperate need of more $$$$$$, to provide more meaningful help to those in need.

Eighth, thank you for the opportunity to call your attention to people at home who need your help.

— Dakota May 21, 03:29 AM #
Thank you for all you do! Please use your influence to keep free enterprise alive in this country so that more citizens can attain wealth honestly to share more than their time and love with those in need. I fear for the American Dream. How much good can we accomplish if we all become equally poor?

— Diane Mosley May 21, 03:48 AM #
If it aint broke don’t fix it. For millenia civilization thrived based on the FAMILY unit. Anything that can be done to strengthen the family strengthens society. The abundance of single parent homes caused by a society that projects responsibilty free sex is also responsible for spread of STD diseases, many of them fatal, the impoverishment of women (single mothers,) and the rising tide of junivile delinquency in third generation welfare supported households that don’t have a daddy as a role model or discipinarian. Throwing money at problems DOES NOT WORK, IT HAS NEVER WORKED. The welfare rolls do not go down because people are not taught or shown that it is worthwhile to WORK HARD! The millions of illegal aliens that creep over our borders in order to work hard come from places that still have a family unit, in part because they are not subjected to the negative media that is in your face, all the time, in the United States. If this is all news to you, you should be embarassed.

— David May 21, 03:53 AM #
Most people do not have anything against a successful person being rich. It is, afterall, the American dream. You are very kind to still consider others and will be paid back in your afterlife in a very good way. We need JOBS, and not just any job, jobs that pay a living wage. We also need our industry back. Anything you could brainstorm on to bring that into fruition will be the key to solveing the american economic crisis. People don’t default on loans, usually, when they can afford to pay their bills. Thank you all for your time.

— Nettie Lawson May 21, 06:40 AM #
All this money you give to help people is great. But it is works. If you think being a good person is going to get you right with God, you are not going to get to heaven. You must be saved, born again,and filled with the spirit to enter the kingdom of heaven. If you don’t call on the name of Jesus Christ to save you, all the good things you have done are nothing and will be burned up and never remembered in the end of this age. Jesus Christ is Lord of all and every knee will bow.

— Jason May 21, 06:40 AM #
i would like to thanks all of you for all the things you doing for the world. recently after i recovered from my disability i decided to invest my time on how to make a better world to live. i am going to take my $2000.00 pension from the government and go to this place to teach arts and guitar lesson. this is a small amount i have so i have to pick a small village to accomodate my budget for this project, i believe it will make the difference for those who i can reach. if this things i will sell my other assets to go futher with this project.

— sonny galang May 21, 06:56 AM #
Please set up a fund whereby deserving,hardworking students whose grades show that they are up to the task, can pull from that fund and fully fund their college education, without worry of having to work and go to school at the same time sacrificing desperatly needed sleep. I am sure the students would be willing to volunteer or pay back into the fund once they graduate and are on their feet. Thank you, and PLEASE consider this.

— Victoria May 21, 06:59 AM #
Thank you for all the good work you have done in the past. I, for one, however, would like somebody to invest in this country. Too much money is being sent in orbit or third world countries. The USA is becoming as bad as these countries. I am not talking about just the HOMELESS. I am talking about us people barely living from paycheck to paycheck – or supposed “middle income” (that is now a joke) we don’t qualify for assistance but we don’t make enough to live. We need jobs. We need to be able to feed our families and keep a roof over their heads. We need to be able to assure our children that we won’t be the next homeless family. We had been doing good – until the economy crisis … now with one parent out of a job and the other “working fewer hours to keep their job” it is extremely hard to make ends meet.

— Karen Dell May 21, 07:13 AM #
What we need to do is bring jobs back to America. you can give a man a fish, he’ll eat for a day, teach him to fish and he’ll eat everyday. what good is sending our children to school and all of that education if 50% of them can’t find a job. everyone would like to work and be self sufficient,but if you send all of the jobs over seas where can they work? also, stop the greed, the extravagance that has caused the situation we’re in today.

— Jean Spencer May 21, 07:15 AM #
Get this nation back to an exporting country again. This will bring jobs back and more money for things like social security and medicare. We have to do it to get out of this depression. I have yet to hear Obama mention this resolution. These greedy corporations say they can’t afford to do business here, its because then they wont have profits into the billions. If you bring the jobs back and pay people a living wage then we can buy things again thus making the economy move.

— Laura May 21, 07:21 AM #
Empower schools to teach not just math, science and the arts but also the value of service and human values. There is plenty of wealth and talent in this world – just concentrated in the hands of a few. Without human values and compassion, this scenario will not change. A compassionate world (read youth) will change this world a lot more than money can. Fund schools to teach powerful youth programs like those offered by the Art Of Living foundation that not only help students handle their stresses and problems without resorting to alcohol and drugs but also be compassionate to those that have nothing.
http://w w w. a r t o f l i v i n g y o u t h . o r g . God Bless !

— Raghavan May 21, 07:31 AM #
Address two issues:
1. There are too many people in the world. Slow, neutralize the growth rate.
2. The U.S. needs a third party to unseat the current “get re-elected” ………. Form one w/ those who are actually interested in the U.S.

— ww May 21, 07:44 AM #
If I had the means I’d be going into areas with highest unemployment, rehabing/retooling empty factories and creating green jobs. I would set up multiple small companies that would become employee owned once they were established. Give a man a fish and feed him for a day, teach him to fish and feed him for life.

— Sgt Mom May 21, 07:47 AM #
It is now time to help Americans. You made your wealth from us and this country, and a little help would be nice for the unemployed/poor here. The rest of the world can wait a bit.

— IT's Me May 21, 07:52 AM #
I would like to encourage all not to listen to the words of men and women who do their good deeds in front of others. Their wealth is meaningless and attempts futile unless done for the glory of God. To have true economic stimulus, this country needs to return to the Rock on which it once stood, God and the belief in Jesus Christ. If the lawmakers in this country would stop putting down each other and pick up the Bible, we would see real CHANGE we all can believe in.

— Matthew May 21, 07:53 AM #
Thanks for your concern!A huge help would be to teach the populus “to fish”. In other words each person needs to fully understand how,why and where to make money.Economics or “How your money works” needs to be mandatory in every high school in the United States (for four years). How can we have a workable society if the “consumer” doesn’t fully understand how capitalisim or money survival works. Second, there is way too much stress on the American family. How can they give anything when they don’t even have time to give to the people in their own home. Six hour work shifts need to be encouraged. Parents could be there when their children go off to school and home when there children get off the bus. Even second shift parents (3:00-9:00) could be home before their teenagers go to bed. This would create more jobs also.
I do agree that there is tremendous “neediness” here in America. We need to start here first!

— caysay May 21, 07:59 AM #
I say thank you and a job well done. But I would also ask you to help our Country first, the Country that made you the Billionaire. So many of our own people are starving, no place to live, no jobs to get where they need to be.

— Sharon May 21, 08:11 AM #
Begin with prayer. Then thank the Lord for all the good and faithful things he has done and continues to do. Teach the beauty of repentance,and forgiveness. Put God back where He belongs as our Creator, Redeemer, Savior and King of our lives, (instead of a reason for political debate) which is found through the finished work of His Son Jesus. Teach our children to respect authority. Teach our parents to focus on family instead of fame. Encourage community involvement that teaches the principle of giving. Limit the amount of TV time, and exchange it for outdoor interaction.
Make grace and mercy hallmarks of our communication with one another. Remember it only takes a seed. So plant good ones.

— Bethel Retreat Ministries May 21, 08:11 AM #
First, anyone who can be in a position to give must have something TO give. The average middle class person is already a philanthropist in the form for taxes being paid to support people who don’t want to work, are illegal immigrants, who don’t think they have to have car insurance etc. The average middle class worker who PAYS for all this crap should hold a secret meeting of their own and decide what is a better way to invest the money that is spent on all of the above that would truly help the ones who deserve it & need it. We have become a whining, lazy society with more looking for a handout, than a society that offers a helping hand.

— Nancy May 21, 08:14 AM #
I would ask only that they give to American charities – there are hungry and sick children and elderly people right here.

— Shirley May 21, 08:28 AM #
There is an old saying that goes “give a man a fish and he eats for a day, teach a man to fish and he eats for a lifetime”. Whatever is determined about how to help others make sure to consider the long range outcome. It is not enough to just pour money onto a problem. There needs to be consideration on how to keep the problem from re-occurring. Make sure that whomever money is given to that it is given with the expectation that they will use it to pull themselves out of their situation and not just prolong it…

— Cynthia May 21, 08:30 AM #
First I would say how sorry I am that you cannot meet to help our world without the media turning it into a circus of “secret clandestime covens”
Second..thank you for meeting and seeking solutions together.
Third…let the world know what WE as individulas can do to help also once you have some goals, etc., set.

Again, thank you!

— lpowell May 21, 09:06 AM #
1. EDUCATION
2. EDUCATION
3. EDUCATION
4. FIND THE $$ TO MAKE HIGHER ED FREE!
5. MODEL AFTER EUROPEAN SCHOOLS: 6 WEEKS VACATION ONLY.
6. GUARANTEED EDUCATION TO 19 YEARS OLD.
$1000 TO EVERYONE GRADUATING H.S.
7.DO AWAY WITH ALL QUALIFING (REGENTS/MCAS TESTS) WHICH DISCRIMINATE.
8. $2000 TO EVERYONE GRAD. +2 YRS.
9. $4000 TO ALL COLLEGE.
$6000 TO MASTERS
10. $8000 to PHD.
VOILA! YOU’LL HAVE A WHOLE NEW GENERATION OF EDUCATED PEOPLE + SMART PHILANTHROPISTS!
WE CAN DO THIS!

— jay May 21, 09:07 AM #
Make a national holiday when we all celebrate philanthropy together. I also think the number one priority in the world should be EASY, EDUCATED, READILY AVAILABLE, FAMILIAR access to birth conrol shots for all women interested. This would be a huge money commitment from developed countries, but would be a MAJOR step in controlling our global population and social problems. I believe the 3 month shots are ideal as pills could get lost or mistaken.

— Kathryn Graves May 21, 09:11 AM #
A man/woman who doesn’t take care of his own (Our country)is worst than an infidel.
We need to work on bringing back America to be moral country, so we can trust in our own people again.

UNITY IS WHAT WE NEED— WE ARE ALL IN THIS TOGETHER.
Greed is going to be our down fall.

— Carol May 21, 09:19 AM #
good morning ladies and gentlemen,

Your work is worthy of recognition at the highest level. I strongly recommend you proceed as those in washington state did in the 70’s. A group convened to put together the roadmap to economic diversity within the state. it has been a resounding success!
there are states who are cutting education which is the fount of our innovation efforts for the future of America.

Pls give this request heavy deliberation?

Kathy

— kathy main May 21, 09:22 AM #
Thank you for all you are doing. You set a great example to others who see you and see that doing good really does matter.

I would suggest that with the resources a group like yours has at your disposal, you could invest in the incredible human potential that exists here in the United States AND abroad. There are so many millions of people who would gladly give of their time and means is they knew a good way to do it. Some have powerful ideas and visions of what could be but the tools and resources are not in within reach. Empower these people. Make funds more easily available to engage people with ideas for helping others. So many of our young people and our older folks have the time and energy to do great things. Just give them the tools and the means to do it and then get out of their way, becuase great things will begin to happen.

— Stephen Anderson May 21, 09:53 AM #
DO AWAY WITH THE ESTATE TAX.Both Gates Sr and Buffet dont want this to happen yet their foundations are tax exempt! To pay for this raise the mandatory foundation 5% of assets they must spend each year to 10%!

— heidi bierek May 21, 10:03 AM #
I work in the field of Senior Adults. I have since 1981. It never ceases to amaze me how older American’s are forgotten, specially those who have no close families or families at all. They depend on senior centers, like the one I work at, The Lake Kennedy Center, in Cape Coral, FL, for their daily means to socializing, meals, activites and just a shoulder to listen and cry on. A vast majority of people in America do not understand what growing old and the changes that occur, specially for seniors who are widowed or left alone, does to a person. Those in my field deal with this fact daily. A majority lack proper medical care, or cannot afford it. Many go hungry, even tho we do provide a noon meal, this leaves them with nothing for breakfast or supper. Our population needs to wake up and see that there are many elder Americans who are starving or going without, needlessly. It would be a great help if those who provide as mentioned in the above article would set up a foundation to feed and help the seniors of our country.
We have even dealt with issues of after death, where a senior’s family could not afford burial, after cremation and unknown to our staff, the cremains were stored on our bookshelf in our library here at work till discovered and almost disposed of by accident. These people need our help, NOW!
Thank you for your time.

— Richard K. Homan May 21, 10:29 AM #
The focus should be on disease, poverty, environment and education (racial tolerance). Cancer and other viral diseases are becoming more prominent, yet funding is scattered all over different organizations.
There needs to be a central organization like the Manhattan project that can put together hundreds of scientists and Drs. to come up with a cure.

— Chung Kwok May 21, 10:30 AM #
Thank you to all the philanthropists. Always remember that you came into this world with nothing in your hands; you’ll leave it the same way as the poorest of the poor; with nothing in your hands.

— Stan May 21, 10:40 AM #
2 generations in north America are badly educated,unable to compete and leading their countries into oblivion.Purge the incompetents in education,revise curricula from grade 1 onwards to university and rescue your own sinking country.Basic values,a return to decent belief systems and morality need help desperately.Focus on birth control world wide-this is a critical problem and most efforts to help a sick planet must first focus on that.There will be enough if overpopulation is curbed and not by disease and war. Remember that life is a circle-with nothing we arrive and we depart the same way.

— harry May 21, 10:42 AM #
I would say to move to more of a “Trade, not Aid” model. Be smarter with donations, and look at them as investments. This fundamental change will be huge.

— Danny Sauter May 21, 10:43 AM #
I would tell them that any assistance needs to start at home with the everyday individual. Not with the large corporations but with the small people who are having job issues and mortgage issues and debt issues due to the current state of the economy. If someone could work with the credit card, mortgage and other lending companies to help reduce the debt that people are getting into because of losing their jobs, then they wouldn’t lose their homes (and everything else they own) and they would have the money to put back into the economy. Rather simplistic view overall but it is the everyday people who buy the everyday things every day that move the economy along, not really those special few who can make the larger purchases less frequently.

— Susan May 21, 10:54 AM #
Review your foundations and their policies. many will not work with new organizations.

Also, consider non-profits that work with new technology development for commercial use that benefit society.

— Jack May 21, 10:56 AM #
I believe to help the economy, part of this issue has to do with jobs, which relates to more small business startups. I’d like to see the Government or the Philanthropists get behind an organization like SCORE to back them with their mission. This may help reduce the number of small businesses that fail each year. More successful entrepreneurs need to be encouraged to advise new business owners in need of business foresight.

— James May 21, 10:58 AM #
Start at the foundation from which all flows, the dirty and blue collar workers. Certainly jobs are important, certainly wages are important, but I would suggest that the most important issue of all is how workers are treated, disciplined, and then terminated. Also, the way that injured workers are dealt with today is criminal. They are not criminals. They should not be treated as if they are, especially after they are injured on the job.
Simply work to give America’s workers a reason to once again have pride in “Made in America”. And no, I am not a union member, or for that fact even a union—as they are today—supporter. The adversarial relationship between employers and employees needs to be changed. Top executives need to not only ‘talk’ about the way that workers…people…should be treated but they need to require that their ‘front’ line supervisors walk the talk.

— Starr Kelso May 21, 11:20 AM #
I believe in taking care of our own people first before we pass it along to the rest of the world. It is an honorable notion but it ignores the reality that most countries in need, operate in a very corrupt system that is not conducive to humanitarian progress. That is why they are in that situation. Cultures adapt to the way things are-good or bad. I would say that most of the money we send to other countries in need never reaches the people who need it. We are never going to change what other cultures need to do to survive; they operate in their own vacuum. We can give them money and help them today, but that will not change the way they think so that they can help themselves tomorrow.

Meanwhile, one in 50 American children is homeless; 40 million American children have no health insurance. The high school drop out rate is 50% in most cities. We have the highest illiteracy rate and infant mortality rate of any 1st world nation. Are these the people that we are expecting to empower to help others?

I would say, the single biggest impact that philanthropists could make is to send Americans to college “free”. In exchange for that debt, recipients could do community service for two years or join the military. For those that aren’t college material-trade schools.

— Gabrielle Nikolin, Parker, Texas May 21, 11:20 AM #
Considering how much has been given away both at home and abroad if money were the answer all need would have been eradicated long ago.

5 – Keep government out. Government will create a bureaucracy that will spend a billion for every dollar put to use.
4 – Accept there will always be people with needs. ‘The poor will always be with you’ – the most depressing words every uttered.
3 – Expect something back from the recipient. It is amazing the sheer joy you get from helping someone. Pass it on.
2 – People live up – or down – to what you expect of them. If their perception is you think they can do nothing without help then they will always need help.
1 – You value what it costs you.

— SLP May 21, 11:41 AM #
Thanks for asking.

You don’t have enough money to do what needs to be done UNLESS you use some of it to change the will of the country. I remember reading a quote from Eli Broad when he announced that he and Bill Gates were investing $60 million in trying to make education reform a prime topic of the 2008 Presedential race. Mr. Broad pointed out that of the many hundreds of millions that he and Mr. Gates had spent on education reform, all they could show for it was incremental change. And of course, their generous and well-intended investment did not make education a topic of debate and conversation in the Preedential campaign. The country’s will was otherwise focused.

We have the money and the knowledge to fix most of the world’s social problems. What we don’t have is the will. It doesn’t matter how much money and know-how we have because it’s not near enough in the absence of the will.

Focus at least some of your effort and money on building the will (and leadership) in this country to make the tough changes!

— Jon Butzon May 21, 12:15 PM #
Unfortunately all the slogans against drug use and smoking and sexual abstinence for the last decade or two hasn’t stopped the growing masses of drug users,cigarette smokers or unwanted children so the same would not do for “philanthropy” awareness. If the “family units” continue to crumble because of drugs, joblessnes, hoplelessness and we begin to try to change any ideas it will have to be with children at the beginning of elementary school, the children will learn at the at the earliest age to “give” it would have to be incorporated in the everyday life. Education would have to be re-structured. As for todays adults, well we might have to be “child like” when comes to loving others and giving even when we, ourselves, are in need.

— Katherine May 21, 12:23 PM #
Given the opportunity to present one idea to the group I would suggest…

If “PHILANTHROPY” is indeed the true context of the discussion, consideration of the meaning and origin of the word “philanthropy” informs the conversation…

Philanthropy – Late Latin philanthropia, from Greek philanthrōpia, from philanthrōpos “loving people”, from phil- + anthrōpos “human being”

1: goodwill to fellowmen ; especially : active effort to promote human welfare ( From Merriam-Webster )

Or in a word…

Philanthropy is “LOVE” … ( therefore, not business ) and a state of being we can all actively take up residence in…

Blessings

www.loveistheanswer.ca

— Catherine May 21, 12:51 PM #
Help working people, so we can get to a point where we can help too. Let us show our kids working is profittable, that its better than living off welfare. Right now there are so many working poor. I think theres needs to be a wage cap clause in every major corporation in America. What I mean by that is I don’t believe that 5% of a company should be allowed to make 15+ million per year in salaries, wages, etc while probably 70% of the company makes 20-25 thousand per year. The wage cap is way too much. It takes everyone to run a company and that wage difference is unfair. I suggest that the lowest paid person in a company be paid at least 1% of the highest paid persons salary. 1% people, that is not happening today, I know that for fact. Corporate America needs restructing, we need new rules or greed will continue to win.

— Crystal cummings May 21, 01:25 PM #
They need to hold another meeting including as many people from the groups who should be on the receiving end: the poor, the unemployed, the underemployed, the homeless, and those who are always omitted in the bleeding-hearts’ lists of whom to help with their bleeping philanthropy. We shall select outselves, instead of being picked by the powerful to reinforce their Social Darwinism.

— Jean SmilingCoyote May 21, 01:26 PM #
I’m sure they have things covered, but I woudl emphasis helping the homeless and single mothers and fathers. There are many parents out there with dreams and ideas who are just trying to make it day by day.

— L.A. Eaton May 21, 01:36 PM #
To controll, eliminate the Talaban, they are killing the innocent humenbeings in pakistan, help army, help poors, directly.

— syed Hussain May 21, 02:01 PM #
When will society in America get around to paying me (financially) for what transpired under the first 8 years after 911. I am after greater financial renumeration than social security checks. Dave Hutnick.

— David J. Hutnick May 21, 02:09 PM #
Not everyone should have to have a college education to be able to survive. Working in a trade IS NOT a dirty word. Anyone who has to work, works hard. Ask manual labors if their backs hurt or typist if their fingers ache and they will tell you yes. This society needs to change their view on paying someone more money because they have a 6 year degree. I think ALL people should be paid a living wage. Not based on what these CEO’s say“we pay on the importance of the position”. Well you would have no business if a secretary didn’t answer the phone, so I would say that job is one of the most important. But they get paid 9.00 an hour. Go figure.

— Laura May 21, 02:11 PM #
The non-profit sector is grateful for your commitment to philanthropy and the impact you have made to improve our society over the years. One of the problems many of our organizations are facing is the “greying” of our boards and difficulty in recruiting younger people willing to serve in that capacity. An investment in board development and capacity building would empower the non-profit sector to be more effective in fulfilling their missions.

— Linda Calandra May 21, 02:14 PM #
PLEASE invest in our children. Teach them the entrepreneurial skills that got you where you are today. Lessons learned in business from this group are sought after but in the hands of our children, this information could be transformative. Sites, such as the Boys & Girls Club of America, could be a great warehouse for programming that engages our A+ students, as well as those that are continually left behind. The Boys & Girls Clubs are inclusive so the environment would be busy with young thoughts and energy. Please try a pilot program to see how this idea flourishes. The philanthropists at this table are successful men and women in business. One spark from this group could transform the life of a child forever.

— Pho Palmer May 21, 02:30 PM #
I have been applying everyday and I am still unemployed after more then two years of being laid off and replaced by H-1b/L1 visa holders, whom I had to train. With millions of Americans unemployed, PLEASE do everything you can to help American Workers by demanding the end of All Visa’s like H-1b/L1, Tn, which are being used to replace American Workers all over the United States. Thank you

— Unemployed American May 21, 03:06 PM #
It’s great that you can afford to help those less fortunate than yourselves. I cannot. I have a decent job, but I also have a family, a mortgage, and debt that I can’t afford to pay off or even make a dent in. So whatever you decide to do, please don’t come to me begging for me to give up my money – I can’t afford to. That doesn’t make me a bad person, that just means I don’t clear 10 billion a year or more like some of you do.

— Strapped May 21, 03:21 PM #
Thank you for making philanthropy a priority. My suggestion would be to increase investments in nonpartisan public policy development, especially at the state level. The private sector, including private philanthropy, cannot in any way, shape or form backfill the losses we’ve experienced in education, health care & human services, family self-sufficiency, etc. The best way to strengthen communities is through strategic public-private partnerships, and this requires an effective public sector.

Effective public structures are built upon solid public policy, much of which percolates up from the field. Communities voice ideas & concerns, public policy orgs then listen, learn and drill across to realistic solutions. They then take those solutions out across the spectrum — from policy leadership and constituents, to business groups, service orgs and grass roots efforts. And while the immediate funding crisis is “I have only 50 shelter beds, but 150 homeless persons waiting for a slot”, the root down issue is a lack of sound, feasible policy to address chronic homelessness as a whole.

Yet, it’s hard to fund nonprofit sector-based policy development when social and human service orgs are drowning. The quiet fact is that investments in public policy development and implementation yield an extremely high ROI — not only financial, systems and human capital. For instance, here in Colorado, approximately $2-$3 million was contributed to nonprofit, nonpartisan policy groups during 2003-2004 for specific research and advocacy around state fiscal issues. In 2005 after 3+ years of professional research and policy analysis, we helped construct and then helped advocate successfully for a referendum that literally put more than $1 billion back into critical public structures — K-12 & higher education, health care and strategic transportation projects. Jobs were created, more cuts abated and we significantly slowed the utter disaster our state faced. Our efforts were bipartisan, cross-sectored, diverse, inclusive and statewide. And that $1 billion tied straight back to a handful of small, nonprofit think tanks that rely on grants and donations like every other org.

Such investments serve to protect the agility and life-span of past/future funding. Health care reforms at a federal level are only as feasible as the state-level public/private systems in place to implement them. Solutions to workforce development, higher education and achievement gap challenges are only as strong as the local infrastructure. CHP+ expansion can only reach communities that can afford the additional travel and language expenditures. State services rely on their nonprofit partners and visa versa. None of the good work can be accomplished in sectoral silos.

That said, investments in public policy development help bring desperately-needed tools and a strong, informed voice to the majority of nonprofits such as the ones who’ve posted here. It’s a systems-change strategy that really works.

— Mollie Cross Leone May 21, 03:28 PM #
My personal opinion of why these people got together, based on the attendees, is it was a meeting to try and decide how these eliteists can impose their will upon the world. The likes of Soros have spent hundreds of millions if not Billions on gun control worldwide and everyone in attendance is a democratic supporter. I’d bet universal healthcare, gun control and all the other communist agenda wish list was talked over. Just one mans viewpoint.

— Jack Duggan May 21, 03:46 PM #
Invest in people who inspire passion.
Ask an artist
to tell a story.
It’s easy.
EasyNOW.us

— Nate May 21, 04:02 PM #
I Like #46’s comments; I love #65 and it would be a pleasure and an honor to cross paths with either of you at somepoint.

My suggestion to the world’s top Philanthropists would be to empower every American by giving each of us a single $1 of their money to “gift” (or redirect) to the non-profit of our choice. Invite American’s to get involved with these dollars and watch to see where they land and then ask the question(s) why…? I think an effort like this might easily surpass election turnout results.

— Alexis Peter Surovov, CFRE May 21, 04:06 PM #
Until I read the comments about the meeting of some of the country’s wealthiest citizens, I didn’t realize how many religious and political kooks read “Philanthropy Today” and apparently work in the world of nonprofits. There is much to be said about the role these “philanthropists” play in the greed-driven economic system under which we live and the values they foster in their business practices, but to begin talking about the Illuminati and people going to hell because they don’t fit a narrow view of what and who God is — Who do these people think they are? They need to look in the mirror and ponder the role their own resentment and anger play in the sickness of present-day society.

— Wayne Fowler May 21, 04:33 PM #
We will never fix what is wrong until we get back to the heart of whats tearing this great nation down. The fact that other countries owe us huge amounts of debt as well that we just forget about and choose to forgive, but when the U.S. has a debt owed to them even after all the help we shell out to countless countries, nobody chooses to forgive our debt. The politicians and regulations for trade need to be inforced. we are outsourcing all our jobs to chinese and japanese made. What ever happened to made in America? Ford and GM where are you? Oh that’s right, our trade is set more like 80/20. 80 import and only 20 export. Fix this and we just might fix America slowly but its a start. Huge Taxes and or tariff’s on imports like they do to our exports would be a start. If we balanced out at an even 50/50 worse case scenario, America might make a huge turn around in it’s economy, lower its debt, and have more jobs. Instead, we are throwing out incentive packages that we hope stick and get us out of this mess when we really need to get back to basics.

— David McDaniel May 21, 04:53 PM #
The world cannot depend on charity, but dignity. Money is a circulating resource. Investing in people’s ideas that help create new jobs will let that resource circulate and expand bringing dignity to workers worldwide. God gave you a gift to be successful because He wants you to share your success and your gift with those who didn’t get it, but got other gifts that make them be members of His own body.

— Jimmy Hernandez from Costa Rica May 21, 05:01 PM #
I am hearing too much about over populations. It makes me boil to know that there are those who hate God’s contributions to life’s total existence. The existence of life in all the universe is God’s most important concern. Philanthropists can contribute to this by encouraging overpopulation, if we place more concern in sending man on space adventures we would need an exponential increase in the scientific population, which means many more people to do the work. with this mantra to propel our hopes we can build a wealth beyond the clouds. this type of life progressing seems impossible, but only the billionaire philanthropist has the power. I give the billionaire credit for not inciting racism by claiming there are too many people in the world.

— Alexander Carstarphen May 21, 05:36 PM #
Git it up, the goverment has dummed the us, all the money in the world can’t fix hate,there are so many people that hate the US and all who live in it ,
I have been all over the world and seen hate for the US . I have meet people that hate me just becuase I live here. There is a race being brain washed to beleave that all the people in the US should be killed

— steve lawrason May 21, 06:46 PM #
As I began reading these post I became more and more depressed. That is until I reached posts 13,15,16,17 and then 19 really hit the vampires on the head so to speak. I think many of these rediculous “thank you” notes are from paid spammer, programmer types employed directly by these people to post things that make themselves seem wonderfull. I hope there can’t really be that many idiots out there that really believe these monsters do anytrhing that isn’t absolutely self serving (Oprah might be the one exception). If they have happened to make any of their vast fortune availble to help needy Americans, the damage they have done has far out weighed the good. Mostly they give to colleges to assure their paradigm of dominance of the working masses by the few wealthy is continued. Or to fund foreign exchange students into American college slots that poor American kids could otherwise occupy. These people all own stock or out right own companies that have moved jobs overseas so they can pay people even less. They own most of the media, who in one hour will be broadcasting degrading filth (no I’m not one of these overley religous nuts )Then in the next hour telling us how we need to improve our morals. Who broadcast gratutioius violence one hour and then try to convince us in the next how we should give up our firearm rights to supposedly curb violence. They are also big holders of insurance industry. Most of us have been shafted at least once by them. With their horrible game of taking our premium payments and then not honoring the claims when the time comes, which is usually when people are already down. And the computer world of gates is built upon a foundation of merciless brutality against the competition. Leaving us with one big internet spy network. Some of these people might think their really gonna do good with their one world government plan, but so far they have demonstrated they will rule with unbending brutality against the working masses. Witness the current state of healthcare only for the wealthy, ya their doing a real good job up there with all their power and money. As a volunteer reader and note taker for the blind at the college level it gave me a chance to study psychology (amoung many other things) and it has really allowed me to see through the lies propagated on their so called news and the mental conditioning (brainwashing)that the television and computer so easily facilitates for them. News flash: the same men who killed the Kennedys and MLK are the same men who perpatrated 9/11, the same people who have been consolidating and monopolizing their global control since I’ve been alive (almost half a century now) and if you think they look at us as anything more then a huge heard of cattle to be minipulated and culled regularly, well then your sadley mistaken. And further more have no clue as to the horror that awaits us. You see this meeting was proboly related to their “final survival plan”. It’s not just abstract mayan prophecy that predicts something bad around 2012. From the CIa’s webbot program to astrological science to geological science there are many sources pointing to 2012 as a possible catrastophic time period. There are asteroids headed for us, there are supervolcanoes overdue to blow, there is the continued degradation of earths eco systems rather man influenced or not. Those billions that these peoples international banks got out of the American taxpayer are amounts to huge to be accounted for in a “bank bailout”. That’s big type construction money. These people are sucking us dry so they can stock up and go underground. Katrina should have taught you a lesson about how much these smug self proclaimed human gods care about Americans in need. Wake up people the fight for your mis informed lives is about to begin and these demons could care less about you, the everyday working class common American.

— Michael May 21, 08:02 PM #
Por favor inviertan en universidades internacionales en las que den oportunidades a nuevos y jovenes talentos que carecen de fondos para poder desarrollarse por que en otros paises no se tienen los fondos y eso ayudaria a crear y recoger nuevas ideas y tal ves formar nuevas cosas companias y distribuir mas la riqueza y posiblemente un avanse mundial hacia una mejor humanidad para todos. ustedes son especiales y creo que solo cosas especiales vienen de alguien como estedes

— ulises veliz May 21, 08:38 PM #
I would like to discuss to this Billionares about their mission in this earth. God himself has placed them here. However, they aren’t really helping our struggling economy. Yes from previous research I have done they all or most of them have helped out in struggling countries such as Africa, Haiti, Honduras, Nicaragua, and many more. However, what are they doing to stimulate United States Economical Status right now? Specially now that jobs are failing, people are being layed off, families are struggling to survive in a conglomerate and competitive varied multistructured market. If they were that concerned they would of already created new jobs, perhaps landed some money to the Automotive Corporate Giant GM and the humongous agency that helps regular people create credit thru credit cards I believe AIG is struggling too. If this so called “Elite Group” would really be smart they would invest on my future small company and help ME out to make a CHANGE in my life. Not only for me but for many others. Therefore, if my future T-shirt company grows I can create new jobs for people.

— Franko Riverre May 21, 09:07 PM #
You do give a lot and it is appreciated however,if you can spend 2 or 3 million for a painting for one wall in one of your houses I must ask what percentage are you giving? The middle class needs help. They are carrying the burden. They are also psycologically stretched to the limit.I make 25 to 30k a year and I have to pay 4k self employment tax. What’s up with that? Also please help the vets especially with their health issues.Get the government to revisit the bailout stratedgy. If the deserving middle class were to get assistance they would stimulate the economy.

— Ray Dellenbaugh May 21, 09:24 PM #
Thank you for your great heart!!
This is an issue that needs to be brought into the open because already I lost everything; My family restaurant, house, friends and an dream.

— David Obregon May 21, 10:52 PM #
Robber Barrons Unite! You’ve managed to rob the middle-class blind and now you sit in your counting house discussing how to spend your money. If you really want to give back to the little people then give it all back and start in the United States, the country of your origin and the worst hit by your personal greed.

— Darrell Parker May 21, 11:30 PM #
Bill Gates, you may want to hold on to you welth as long as you can. if oboma keeps his campain promises, he will SHARE THE WELTH WITH ALL OF THE POOR PEPOLE ON WELFARE OR MAKING LESS THAN $50K PER YEAR. CLINTON WILL JUST TAKE IT FROM YOU AS SHE STATE IN HER CAMPAIN SPEACHES. SO, BEWARE OF POLITICIANS. SINCE I MAKE LESS THAN $40K, PLEASE SEND ME MY SHARE NOW! I WILL NEED IT TO PAY FOR ALL THE TAXES AND INFLATED PRICES I WILL HAVE TO PAY FOR TO SURVIVE THE NEXT FEW YEARS TILL THE PEPOLE WISE UP TO THE SCAM THIR BEING FED.

— victor davidovits May 22, 12:37 AM #
I say, Give the money that your throwing away to the people that need it, Not colleges, charities or big companies. They do NOTHING for the working class, the people who actually do the work and keep america rolling. Just Give everyone in the country 1 million to do as they please. That would definetly stimulate the economy. Why give money to the struggling auto makers when we still won’t have money to buy cars??? doesn’t make sense. If I had that kind of money I would definetly not give it to anybody but regular people off the streets, just walk up to random people and hand them money to change their life forever.

— Chris Turner May 22, 12:49 AM #
The problem with the world is not money but corruption and anti humanitarian interests. It is a fact that a very large percentage of humanitarian aid never reaches those it is aimed for. The money goes to ‘grease’ the palms of corrupt officials and to pay for the ‘expenses’ of the charitable organizations. I believe that if money was invested in combating corruption on a world wide scale it would go a long way to improving the living of those who need it the most. The reason why people fall through the cracks is because of a non caring society that is too corrupt and bigoted to help those who need it. It is much easier for a ‘philanthropist’ to just write out a check and sooth his/her conscience than to concern themselves with what happens with that money afterwards. So my point is that if these philanthropists wish to make a difference all I have to say is: USE YOUR MONEY TO COMBAT CORRUPTION!! This way you will be empowering people to help themselves instead of measly hand outs which only serve to keep them trapped in their misery.

— Mano May 22, 05:18 AM #
get schools to start teaching classes about the consequences of racial hatred and greed. show kids a smarter way to live

— barbara May 22, 11:29 PM #
I cann’t tell anyone what to do with there money, that they all work so hard to aceive it. But my prayer to find away to help the one who cann’t help there self. After my husband injury at work and lose our place to live to have to move in a hotel for over 5 mos. I lose my job as well so we both trying so hard to get us from being on the street or living in are car. We came close each time or ck was late or we became short. We thought our family would let us live with them until my huband has is surgery. No one offer. And that was hard to deal with. But God alway made a way for us.Even when they stop his job insurance cann’t go to the Dr. because they put him or Cobra that is to high on what he get from Edd. There are some others like us out there. The Hotel is always full because of ecomonic. I do have faith that the World will get better in time. We all must stay focus and try to work togethere as a Nation not what we have in our Bank or in our pocket. It lending a helping hand to others of need. We all can make a different. And I know it time we will afford a place call home. Because home is where the heart is. Just look around and see who we can help is this trying time. Or Childrens need it as well as our Old. Medical and Housing is what we need. And if you can build more affortable housing will help family like us.

— flo May 23, 02:37 PM #
1. Stop meeting in secret. It breeds unhealthy speculation about conspiracies, etc. Unless the conspiracies are true?!

2. Pay the lowest wo/man on the totem pole at your respective companies more. They will inject it into the economy in readily recognizable ways.

3. Give more money to public schools and set up inclusive scholarship funds (“A” average, “B” average students regardless of major, ethnicity, etc.) that provide a larger amount of money – college is gradually becoming a place that only the rich can afford – despite the availability of student loans, they are a drain on society; graduates having to pay astronomical student loans when they graduate have less to spend on other things that can help industries/sectors not named “financial/banking”.

— James May 24, 03:46 PM #
Watch “SICKO” by Michael Moore. We can learn a lot from our European counterparts. I’d rather pay more in taxes if it will provide free education and free quality healthcare, where doctors actualy get paid to take care of people.

I’m in the Air Force and our core values in INTEGRITY First, SERVICE BEFORE SELF and EXCELLENCE in all we do. Unfortunately, it seems as though congress is all about SELF before service. Don’t let people use SOCIALISM as a scare tactic because our military system is not to far from it. I get free housing, free tuition assistance, free medial and dental, and money for food and housing. And you know what, people don’t get paid by how technical their job is, we get paid according to the rank we have. I don’t feel a depression because this socialist military system is taking care of me.

Democracy has proven to not be the end all and be all. My theory is, any government can work, it depends on the type of people leading it. Ask yourself, have our leaders shown Intergity First, Service before Self and Excellence in all they do.

— SrA Chanice Reid May 24, 07:29 PM #
First, I would like to thank the philantrophists that they have organized together and thought of helping and supporting other people in anyway they can worldwide …I hope and pray that this reaches as fas as Philippine country because there are many Filipino people who are seeking financial and educational assistance this will surely be a big help for us…God bless you all…

— Smile May 25, 06:21 AM #
This group of sucessful people should focus on making America’s youth successful by in investing in non-union schools Countrywide, staffed by highly trained, paid and motivated teachers teaching a curriculum designed by the smartest educators in the USA.
American education is a disgrace because it is administered by politicians and hamstrung by the unions who just want teacher benefits, security, limited hours etc. They don’t give a damn how bad the education is.

— Mandrake May 25, 08:14 PM #
Keep your money, giving it away will not prevent you from burning in Hell!

— Stephen Smith May 25, 08:17 PM #
Only God can change a heart thus change a society to one whose purpose is to glorify God, not man, in all things. Jesus Christ said the two greatest commandments are to love the Lord God with all our heart, soul, and mind, and second to love our neighbor as ourself. Money helps but it isn’t going to solve the world’s problems.

— Kate May 25, 09:07 PM #
Thank you to the concerned people who use their blessings to bless others and who want to make the world a better place.

I realize this advice may not be popular, but so much poverty stems from overpopulation. On a global scale their aren’t enought jobs and resources. In individual families, parents can’t provide for their children either materially or emotionally.

Research shows that the quickest way to raise the standard of living is to provide women with the ability to limit the number of children they have through safe, reliable birth control that is cheap and easily accessible. There need to be more programs worldwide that help at this basic level.

— Deb May 25, 11:08 PM #
I agree with the few that said go and meet ordinary people and help them. I needed help and no charity helped me for one reason or another.I have always said if I had lots of money that is what I would do.

— Marty May 25, 11:26 PM #
With all that money in one room I guess I would ask them to help the poor who are on welfare. If they would contribute just 10% of their wealth we would be able to eliminate welfare. Get these folks on their feet without our tax money. Imagine how much money we could save. If they wanted to support all the illigals in this country with their medical imagine the money we tax payers would save. The deficit would be reduced tremendously. But you know rich folks sure don’t like to let lose their money for nothing. After all, how much more money does Bill Gates need?

— Robert May 25, 11:31 PM #
Hi
I am from Nepal. You have such huge amount of money there. There are many people living in the drench of poverty. There is school having no library,toilets, teachers. There are people having no meal. Thousands of children lacking basic needs and education. Could you please invest your money to them?

— Amrit Bhandari May 26, 04:17 AM #
I certainly wish some of the above respondents would just once in their lives do some critical thinking. It isn’t God doing the work to change the misfortunes of society, it is real people who help change society in both positive or negative ways,and it sometimes involves large sums of money to create real change in the world, even though all individuals can make their own positive non-monetary contributions to society,therefore, these wealthy philanthropists have the power to make substantial changes to the plight of the world. What the religous zealots should ask themselves is; what have I done today to make the world a better place, instead of copping out by saying it’s God’s will. It’s humans who change the world not God. Thankyou to all the philanthropists of the world who help inspire the rest of the world through their positive deeds!

— craig speakman May 26, 08:06 AM #
First, each of these special individuals should be applauded. FOr each wealthy individual who is philanthropic, there are 10 more who don’t understand the meaning of tzedakah (Jewish word for giving) and that people with such wealth have an obligation to give back. Therefore, they need to encourage their peers to become givers.

The variety of issues and causes to give to are endless and there is much need. I would start with health care and hunger and work from there. Housing, job/skill training and ways to help people get on their feet should be a priority. I also think that this group, along with the president’s initiative for service should encourage ALL of us to give. There are MANY, MANY capable people who give nothing and neither help anyone or experience the satisfaction of sharing with others. The true measure of a man/woman is not how much money he/she has, but how it was made and what is done with it.

— Larry Hirsh May 26, 09:58 AM #
Each and everyone of you know the power of giving, faith, hope, and love. Each and everyone of you also know the steps you traveled and processes you initiated to make you the “elite”.

I challenge you to become the “elite” group that President Obama needs to develop and execute a budget that will get America back on track. A budget that works for the better America, the better citizen, the better world, equally and without predjudice. For our children and our childrens children, give President Obama a helping hand. He cannot get caught up in the same old same old.

God Bless all of you for the kindness and love you continue to give. There is already a place for you up above. No worries.

— Dolores Lott May 26, 01:15 PM #
It’s very nice to know that there are still people with a GOD filled heart . The people of the United States are a very giving and very proud people . I know my self and other’s if we had the resourses and the fund’s we could make a difference in the live’s of all people . Like a car that run’s off of compressed air , I have several tool’s that I have made and actually work but I don’t have the fund’s that it take’s to market them . So you see there are allot of people that could make a difference in life if we had the backing ! The Gov, give’s to company’s that have already made misstake’s rather than to people that could make it better. If they would have given that money back to the Tax payer’s it would have made a very big difference in the econamy rather than give it to the executives of a failing company . If all of the Rich and giving people would give money to everyone with the right’s of a percentage of the out come of the goodness . Plus it would be a write off for the giver . Just think of the great thing’s that would become of it !!! Thank you all and have a very Blessed Life .

— Nik Cunningham May 26, 01:23 PM #
Man what a bunch of “Gore” type mushrooms

— Dale May 26, 04:17 PM #
Set up free schools that teach trade type skills i.e. bricklaying, cabinetry, simple machine maintenance, oil changing, changing tires or commonsense skills that would enable people to be more self reliant; set up medical clinics that foster exchange of medical care for some type of work so that it’s not an entitlement endeavor but an exchange of services; help offset some of the loss of funding in schools that want to continue arts programs; have contests for ideas to improve life in communities and fund those that will improve the quality of life. There are so many little things that philanthropy could help and I love that those that have want to help those that have not. Good luck.

— karn May 26, 04:26 PM #
Sure it sounds good – but why secret? What are you REALLY up to? If it was such good news as “speculated” then it would be paraded as such – not all hush hush. When I see the infamous “Rockefeller” name and “secret” I see big trouble, not a reason to be thankful based on reported speculation.

— Concerned Citizen May 28, 05:26 AM #
Aquiring wealth means someone else losing wealth…give it back to those who gave it to you…….and keep jobs in America.

— Tim L. May 28, 07:36 AM #
stop thinking big. Go into the neighborhoods maybe grants for dental clinics housing for battered women with children with a time limit to go out on own

— Alan May 28, 09:50 AM #
Speak to each of the State Legislatures in this USA and ask them to vote on legislation that the people of their state have requested. Vote on what the people have asked for and need and not for the politicians own political agendas. Example: Texas Legislature has not addressed any of the legislation before them and likely will not vote for the very important issues about Texans. Their are spending their last critial hours in session addressing the very political legislation regarding requirements for Voter Extra ID! This is so political and everyone knows that voter turnout is always around 10 percent and 20 percent if interest is high which does not make this legislation critial to the citizens of Texas! State Government does not care about the people of the State of Texas if they will not consider and vote on the legislation to benefit Texans. No help is being considered for additional Child Health Care Funding. As usual you could tell these politicians that giving begins at home and not for their own private interests! Thank you!

— JENNYNE BILSKY May 28, 10:31 AM #
I would suggest with the the assistants of the government, instead of given stimulus money to corporation give 200K dollars to each US citizen making less than 40k dollars a year with guidelines and I am sure they will boost the economy

— coldhouse walker May 28, 11:19 AM #
Invest in getting each and every member of Congress and the President out of Washington and let’s start over. The reason for all the problems mentioned in every post is the Federal government and it’s actions, especially for the past 50 years. They are corrupt miscreants that are in it for themselves. It is the only things that will save the US.

— Ken May 28, 11:28 AM #
117 comments later …My suggestion is a hint of possible intelligence, verging on wisdom maybe? “ Pool your resources, focus on one issue, make a difference..United we stand..There is power and strength in numbers..God Bless

— Sharon Vaughn May 28, 12:08 PM #
Remember the old saying Charity begins at home? Lets focus on getting ourselves in order before we try to save the rest of the world from themselves. There are PLENTy of poor, oppressed persons right here in the USA who need food, clothes, etc. While it is certainly a step in the right direction to build schools in Africa, send a pair of new shoes to whatever country whenever a pair is bought here, it somehow seems more glamorous or politically correct to target a highly visible or controversial population in another county. Lets take care of our own, and THEN we can take on the rest of the world.

— Lucia Logue May 28, 12:34 PM #
Hello to all,I feel that it is high time for the commitee of the rich do the right thing.Charity begins at home not in other countrys.Oprah did not get where she is without america and hard work but can you imagen what you all combined can do to our school system there would be real education for our future President and CEO etc.I have a hard time when children live on our streets while you all send money to other countrys.I am a 66 year old lady with very little means but I feel sorry for our next generation who will not have the means to get a decent education. Its a shame with all our rich people in america that does include our Stars who spend on a b cake 5000dollars can you imagen howe many people they could feed????????????

— inge May 28, 12:48 PM #
Please help Africa build a
Clean Water Resource System
Thanks!!

— Joan May 28, 01:15 PM #
Thank you, I would ask that you invest in making education more affordable for American’s children. Also, work to improve education about participatory democracy, self governance and citizen involvement. We need to stop the decline of the middle class and the huge divide between the very rich (sorry, you) and the rest of us.

— Donna May 28, 01:46 PM #
Thank You !!Help the Vets and there familys, The gov. is not doing much for them.

— Don Barton May 28, 02:14 PM #
Personnel opinion…I think they should all sell all their mansions and million dollar apartments except the main one that they are going to live in, and maybe 1 vacation home. The money generated off those sales alone would wipe out poverty in the U.S. Also probably wipe out hunger world wide. They are billionaires, they really could afford it and still be billionaires!

— Paula Gushard May 28, 03:11 PM #
God Bless and keep you all. Maybe someday we will meet in heaven and discuss how we could have better shared God’s love for others while here on earth. God Bless you with love. I hope this is what it is all about.

— Loyd Hunnicutt May 28, 03:27 PM #
126. #1 I believe that President Roosevelt’s new deal was what helped the USA the most to recover from the great depression, people had to live in tent cities, suffer hardships often living away from family and really want the jobs, that was a good thing, as not EVERYBODY does want to work! These projects paid a living wage so that one job supported a family.

#2 I live just below the Great “Grand Coulee Dam” we need industry that pays a living wage here where one of FDR’s Greatest new deal projects was born, (as well as probably every small community in the US). Many work at the Dam and earn a very adequate wage, however the many who work the service jobs, IE: restaurants, motels, must work 2 or 3 just to struggle from paycheck to paycheck, working all shifts. Our few childcare homes close by 6pm and are not open on week-ends.This is forcing families with children to relocate to bigger cities, where they are still working the same kinds of jobs, and cost of living is higher making them struggle even more, but there is adequate childcare.

#3 Our schools are struggling with student decline year after year causing RIF to be the norm as well as cuts in programs such as music and sports. This in turn is cheating our students of all but the basics, in an area that offers very little outside the schools for recreation and activities that promote healthy choices.

#4 Hummm The Drug and alcohol industries abound here for all ages, wonder why?

#5 This I believe critiques not only the Grand Coulee Dam area but, every remote small town USA. We need industry, and a 24/7 childcare facility.

#6 For our community there are two groups of volunteers who could use some financial assistance. 1st. with a community swimming pool and 2nd a community center.

#7 With these few things in place we and as many small towns you might adopt will not only survive but grow and flourish! This is my educated opioion, having lived here for 25 yrs.having worked in the school system for 17 yrs. watching the down spiral slowly evolve. My plea is for our students and young families.Our own backyards are important to a healthy USA.
Thank you for your time and the kind sharing of your wealth.

A retird 62 yr. old Grandmother of 25 and GreatGrandmother of 5.

— Carol May 28, 03:59 PM #
Build more houses for the homeless vets and donate to their people who have dedicated their lives to POW/MIA and disables vets that the government has left behind after serving their country. Get health care for all the homeless vets that are suffering from PTSD and cannot keep their lives together without assisted liveing.

— Katherine Robertson May 28, 04:43 PM #
suck up

— Gary May 29, 04:58 PM #
I myself have been searching for ways to better our world.There are some great ideas on this page.Very intresting was a man who talk about what single parent homes do to our society.In this holds the key to our turn around in this world it is up to people who care about the world to change what are own youth are doing and spread are seed abundanly. But most of these comments were US this and US that.To make a real impact WE need to come toghether as a HUMANERACE.This is not “hippie talk” Iam a soldier of the US ARMY it is my mission in life to teach the world the right way through my children while protecting the inocent from the destruction of the world.For those who want to make a change You must sacrifice your own life.I dont mean death but your every breath that God gives you must be for change.

— Odell, Christopher C. May 29, 10:30 PM #
Hey, why wasn’t I invited?

Have it in Kansas City next time and invite me, unless I go back home. Okay find out where I an at the time, plan for it to be there and drop me an invite.

— Kronah May 30, 02:33 AM #
TO ME THE MOST MEANINGFUL COMMENT WAS: CHANGE THE ENTIRE FEDERAL REPRESENTATIVE BODIES. USE YOUR WEALTH TO CREATE A NATIONWIDE REFERENDUM TO ASK IF THE PEOPLE WANT TO UN-ELECT EVERYONE. START OVER— GET THE PIGS OUT OF THE TROUGH— A NATIONAL VOTE OF NO-CONFIDENCE: PROPOSE TO PAY THE NEW SET OF REPS 1M A YEAR— (DO YOU THINK THEY COULD DO WORSE THAN WHAT HAS HAPPENED?) WITH A NEW SET OF LAWS— #1. NO ELECTED OR APPOINTED OFFICIAL SHALL ACCEPT ANY MONEY, GRATUITY OR GIFT OF ANY KIND FROM ANYONE ~~NOT EVEN A MOTHER~~- OR PUT THEIR NAME ON ANY CHARITY— OR SPEAK FOR A FEE—PERIOD! IN-OTHER-WORDS—NOT ONE DIME IN ANY FORM FROM ANY SOURCE WHAT-SO-EVER— AND NO CONTRIBUTIONS TO ANY OF THEIR DIRECT RELATIVES.

IF YOU TRY TO FIX THE STEW THAT TASTES LIKE S**T BY JUST ADDING MORE OF THE SAME INGREDIENTS, IT WILL JUST BE A BIGGER POT OF S**IT. START OVER WITH THE CORE OF POSITIVE IDEAS EXPRESSED IN THIS FORUM AS THE NEW GOVERNMENT’S MANDATES—

I AM POSITIVE YOU WOULD SEE A VOTER TURN-OUT OF OVER 98%—WHY—BECAUSE THE COMMON PEOPLE OF THIS COUNTRY WOULD SEE THAT IT IS POSSIBLE TO START-OVER, AND NOT JUST BE DISHED UP THE SAME BOWL OF S**T WITH A NEW NAME. OH YES— AND 1 SET AMOUNT OF PUBLIC MONEY FOR EACH CANDIDATE’S CAMPAIGN— NO OTHER MONEY TO BE SPENT-PERIOD-
I CAN HEAR THE CRIES OF UN-AMERICAN, AND SOCIALIST, ALREADY. ANYONE WHO IS AFRAID TO RUN FOR OFFICE ON A LEVEL PLAYING FIELD IS REVEALING THEIR TRUE COLORS— THEY DON’T WANT A FAIR FIGHT— THEY WANT TO USE MONEY TO DECIDE THE ELECTION— MORE OF THE SAME S**T.

MY GREAT-GRAND PARENTS CAME TO THIS COUNTRY AND HOMESTEADED THE DAKOTAS FOR ONE REASON— THEY WERE TOLD THAT IN AMERICA PEOPLE COULD START OVER AND SUCEED WITH HARD WORK — AND IT WAS TRUE.

NOW LET’S START OVER AND DO THE HARD WORK IT WILL TAKE TO MAKE THIS WORK.—
PS— I’M NOT AVAILABLE TO RUN—
PPS— CHANGE THE LAWS SO THAT YOUR CORPORATIONS ARE NOT CONSIDERED THE SAME AS A LIVE AMERICAN IN COURTS— SACRIFICE A BIT MORE THAN JUST YOUR MONEY TO SHOW YOU ARE SERIOUS

— FIL PIERCE May 30, 03:42 AM #
thank you. Invest in agriculture organic sustained farming, invest in potable water production and the education of people in these fields. Support doctors without borders and heifer international. and thank you again.

— john Gelber May 30, 10:31 AM #
Put the PRO back into the word Professional please…Place Integrity upon a required list of standards …ethics is a given….you cannot fix all of these problems until we bring the quality of people back up to par. i am appalled at the unconscionable actions people in decision making positions perform which has led downstream to the people in the heartlands. Where is the light at the end of the tunnel….it has dimmed for many and HOPE has been buried. Good people need to be arise out of this jungle…we are here, hardworking and running in circles trying to keep up with the massive companies trying to rake us everyday…car repairs, cell companies, banks, insurance companies, OIL Companies, grocers,conctractors, there are too many shisters out there we have to fight daily and along with the extreme sadness of patients in Health Care getting subprime care..and if you give good care you are looked at as rocking the boat….a lawyer just explained to me that it isnt calling lying its called PUFFING….he took a hour of my time trying to convince me of this. This is a respected lawyer in my community…supposedly..Me Hes just found another way to justify the lack of integrity in the judicial system. ire common people o have no ulterior motive but to do good in this world with no personal benefit. A degree from Business seems to be the underlying cause of greed, deception, PUFFING, and how to screw your neighbor. Cmon people….wasnt it all these business degrees that fueled the decision making process of the massives that brought this economy into a turmoil. I would be embarrassed to display these wonderful universities that taught our businessmen how to get away with corruption. Make your univerisities better or be responsible for the education you provided.

— Julie R May 31, 09:17 AM #
The Christian Appalachian Project is a charity that directly helps the hidden poor of the mountains of Appalachia. This group could be used as a base to introduce small industries into the region. The poor of Appalachia have been neglected, but are intelligent and hard working if given a chance. I can think of several cottage industries these people can succeed at if there were well-meaning people with the funds to back the start of these projects… something on the order of the small loan projects that Americans contribute to in Africa and India.

— Shirlee Meola Jun 1, 06:20 PM #
Help us disabled folks who still have student loans on the books but cannot afford to pay them back.

The United States actually garnishes our paltry retirement and SSI funds and we are helpless to fight back.

We did not ask to get sick during or after re-educating ourselves.

These things happen to older people and no one is to blame, least of all we who have tried to make a comeback.

If you cannot do it, then please inspire our “representatives” to alleviate this immoral situation.

Many of us in Cali-fornia have already had our SSI monies reduced so the State can try to balance the budget.

In addition, we are now being denied medical and dental care because of the financial situation – and it was lean enough before.

Yours truly,

— Eli Goldsmith Jun 1, 07:12 PM #
Thank you for your great contributions. Dont read all the crap. Just keep doing what you do.

— RoseMarie Poirier Jun 1, 07:46 PM #
Being raised in rural America it seems we need to go back to the rural way of life and know the neighbor next door and reach out a lending hand or ear if needed. I married a dairy farmer and we lost everything we had 13 years ago and now we have saved money to buy a farm again for we want this way of life for our retirement time and to be out in the open and breathe the freshness of rain and the sound of birds and animals making thier own nests. My 2 children are teenagers and they want to be on the same page with us. We got legal guardianship of a young man who is graduating this Sunday from high school when his father committed suicide because of the bill collectors hounding him. This young man’s grandmother or sister did not want him. His only choice was to go to a group home for delinquent teen boys. It has been touch and go but we have an additional family member who is going to college in the fall and he wants to be a teacher of history. As a teacher of 31 years I can’t see a better profession for him to enter. Teaching and dairy farming is the same. You don’t see the product until you give time a chance. I have always cared for my students and want them to reach the highest they can be even at the financial position of Gates, etc. I wish the members of the meeting would see how they can benefit those who work 24/7 and supply the leadership for our future leaders as well as the food producers of the world. I can not imagine if the Education Department of each state divided up $1 billion, without any money going anywhere except straight to the classrooms. I just this weekend have spent nearly $50.00 for things for a young teen mother who is expecting for the students in my child development class wanted to give her a surprise baby shower. I am always picking something or putting my own funds in the bucket to acheive the project that the class is working on. I have worked all my life from a family greenhouse business to teaching full time. I am not afraid of work and I know each of the men in this article have had tough times also but when it is better to give than to receive it has blessed you 100 times. I guess in a nut shell I wish we could just reach out and share our wealth whether it is $50.00 or 50 billion. Thank you.

— GLENDA MCCRACKEN Jun 1, 08:21 PM #
I am not what many would consider a wealthy person, as my wealth is not about how much money I have in the bank, but rather how much time and money I have given. I have often wondered why we put so much emphasis on those with financial wealth, and less on those who do extraordinary things with the funds they have available. I have been blessed with a wonderful family, husband and two terrific kids who support me in everything I do, and for that reason, I am extremely wealthy. I recently lost my job of 16 years in the financial field and instead of sitting home listening to all the bad news, I decided to start my own company. I am managing artists who want to give back to the community their musical talents,and make a difference in someones life. I am helping a man named Finis Henderson who has an extraordinary message of hope, through his life journey though his musical talent. Finis is the Great grandson of an African American man who was a slave in the 19th century. The story of his life is remarkable as his story takes you on a journey of his family slavery days, to his successful family career in the music business, to present. My dream is to take the message of Finis to the youth. To give hope to those who need faith and strength to those who need encouragement. This is where wealth, the money kind, becomes important, as I would need funding to take this show on the road. If you can assist me with this dream, I would really appreciate your help. Finis is an extraordinary impressionist who has a message for the youth of today. His Great Grandfather was a slave, and Finis speaks of his life in a one man show called Someone of Note. I would like to take this show to schools in the Los Angeles area, followed by schools around the country to show what a remarkable life Finis has made for himself. We are currently living with such bad news. I feel it is time to share some news of hope. I would like to know if you could help me in getting funding for his message to share with those who need to hear this story. Thank you ahead of time for your assistance.

— Debbie Hobday Jun 2, 01:21 AM #
Firstly. thank you all for getting together to do something good to the world.
I believe that you have already decided how to tackle the world’s ills and it is pointless for me to give advice on the matters you know better than myself.
But I just want to say something.
“Make sure that nobody starves and suffer long from any disease”
May this be the ultimate goal.

— wasantha abeyasinghe Jun 2, 01:35 AM #
I hope that they come to some good idea’s to what we need to help all humans. As some of the people post before me said we need to get back to the giving of are time to help all who really need it. I no as I was in a accident and lost everything I had worked all my adult live for including my only home and my business. I had no help from anyone. I am starting over from scratch. If I could say one thing is to all who read this READ YOU INSURANCE POLICY. IF you get hurt and can not pay the preimum do you loss it? I paid into mine for 18 years and when I was hurt I could not pay and I Lost it all. Also I would say that if there was a way to get Dential care to the elderly because medicare does not help, it would cut cost to illness that are caused by bad teeth and gum. May you find peace in your meeting. Bonnie

— bonnie Jun 2, 02:01 AM #
I would tell them to please stop investing in countries other than their own and start treating Americans fairly. Shame on Gates for allowing Microsoft to kill XP when the mass of the world relies on it and can’t afford to change everything at every whim. I’ll also tell him that it isn’t right that everyone else in the world gets Windows for pennies and free laptops per child while we struggle to put food on the table here much less keeping up with the hundreds of dollars we’re forced to spend to have a computer that they will outdate in a month. Lastly, stop with all the overseas stuff! If you want to do anything overseas, teach them birth control! Your own people are home are suffering and you ignore them after raping them of their careers, their money, their benefits, and everything else!

— Call for Fairness at Home Jun 2, 08:40 PM #
I would tell them to prepare themselves for hell.

They are all pro abortion and use their money to support that cause.

Soros will be in eternal hell soon and his money will not help him

— Bob Jun 5, 07:16 PM #
To start with the rich ones could go back to the factorys they owned and shut down and put people that have worked there for years out of work, some to old to start new especially when places are closing all around them, Like Mr Buffet. He could go back and help all the people that were laid off due to his Feichhimer plant closing here in Tn, and help them and childrens education and health care. and if any of the other ones have closed any plants or laid off any workers they could help them. help them extra but with the stipulation they must help someone in return, make them sign a paper where they have to give so much and then also give time helping some kind of organazation.
To start a paying it forward thing. Nobody gets helped if they wont help anyone else. Or the factorys that have been shut down, start back up again instead of sending more work overseas.

— Di Jun 5, 09:46 PM #

Commenting is closed for this article.

Previous: Low Salaries Hold Charities Back, Author Argues
Next: Are Big Gifts 'Gauche'?

Blogroll

Categories

What Would You Tell the World's Top Philanthropists?

Comments