Ruth Shapiro, co-founder and chief executive of the Centre for Asian Philanthropy and Society, goes head-to-head with Jean Sung, head of the philanthropy centre in Asia at JP Morgan Private Bank, in this month’s great debate
Should we only give donations as Christmas presents?
Ruth Shapiro: YES
“When reading about the hoard of items acquired by the now-imprisoned Rosmah Mansor, wife of the former Malaysian prime minister, I couldn’t help but think, 272 Hermès bags: why? There aren’t even that many colours to coordinate with. Marie Kondo has built an empire on helping us get rid of stuff.
Of course, and thankfully, few of us reach even a fraction of Mansor’s stockpile, but we can agree that for many reading this article, we already have enough, if not too many, things.
The world is facing increasing inequality in so many ways: educational, socio-economic, even who is affected by climate change and by how much. It is time to change the narrative and our own behaviour, and bring our friends and families along with us. Donating to charity in lieu of a material gift is a win-win-win: for the giver, the recipient and the world at large.”
Ruth Shapiro focuses her support on environmental and education non-profit organisations.
Jean Sung: NO
“No—and not for the reasons you are assuming. Giving is not just an act; it should reflect your or your gift recipient’s values. It should not be seasonal or have a due date. We are living in a volatile period and a more fragmented world in which our giving choices can narrow the socio-economic gap. When people give with purpose and intent, and build businesses for profit and purpose, philanthropic capital has the power to create transformative change.
Targeted giving can lead to volunteering and the bridging of private and public sectors to help scale impact for longterm sustainability. The giving intent can include a response to critical issues, with thoughtful and innovative leadership, and a collaborative mindset.”