Giving Pledge
The Giving Pledge is a movement of the world’s wealthiest individuals and families who dedicate the majority of their wealth to giving back and addressing some of society’s most pressing problems.
It was created in August 2010 by Bill and Melinda Gates and Warren Buffett following a series of conversations with other philanthropists about how they could collectively set a new standard among the ultra-wealthy and motivate them to give more, give sooner and give in smarter ways.
The Giving Pledge is inspired by the example set by millions of people at all income levels who give generously throughout their lives, often at great personal sacrifice, to make the world better.
In February 2013, John became one of the first British billionaires to take the Giving Pledge. Initially committing half of his fortune, John has since increased his commitment to donate at least 70 percent of his wealth to good causes, including Caudwell Children, Caudwell Youth and Caudwell LymeCo, during or after his lifetime.
In his letter when becoming a Giving Pledge signatory, John explained:
Philanthropy gives me far more pleasure and satisfaction than making money. In fact, making money is now largely driven by the knowledge that I will be able to leave even more wealth behind for charitable causes when I go.
My message to those who have not yet committed to philanthropy is that they may well find that it becomes a drug that gives far more pleasure than the creation of wealth.
