Ukrainian businessman and philanthropist Victor Pinchuk has committed to give half or more of his fortune during his lifetime and beyond to philanthropic causes, joining the Giving Pledge, a philanthropic initiative founded in 2010 by Bill Gates and Warren Buffett.
“We’re very pleased that Victor Pinchuk has decided to join the Giving Pledge,” said Bill Gates, pledge co-founder and co-chair of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. “Victor is a thoughtful and innovative philanthropist, and we welcome his perspective as the Giving Pledge brings people together to exchange ideas about how to be as effective as possible and smarter in our giving.”
Commenting on his decision, Victor Pinchuk said: “Joining a group of dedicated people, and with the opportunity to learn from them, I look forward to my giving becoming more impactful. Investing half or more of my fortune in my lifetime and beyond into areas like education, healthcare, access to contemporary art and the promotion of my country, I will be investing in the next generation, those who will build the Ukraine and the world of tomorrow.
I feel a special responsibility to give back to my country and society. The post-Soviet transformation process was very painful for Ukraine and other countries in the region. Some of us had the chance to use the opportunities that arose to make our fortunes. It is time to give back, so that as many citizens as possible can benefit.”
The Giving Pledge
The Giving Pledge is an effort to invite the world’s wealthiest individuals and families to commit half of their wealth to philanthropic causes and charitable organizations of their choice. The 105 pledgers range in age from 28 to 97. Globally, signatories represent 9 separate countries. In the United States, they are from 23 states and the District of Columbia, with the largest contingents from California and New York. Pledgers give to a wide variety of causes, including education, health, medical research, social services, the environment, and others. The pledgers are at different stages in their philanthropy – some have already given away the majority, while some are just getting started. But they have all committed to give half their wealth, with more than 30 pledging even more in their Giving Pledge letters. The Giving Pledge encourages open conversation about philanthropy and does not involve direct appeals, pooling money or requirements to support a particular cause or organization. Pledge signatories come together throughout the year to discuss challenges, successes, failures, and how to be smarter about giving. While the Giving Pledge is specifically focused on billionaires, it is inspired by past and present efforts that encourage and recognize givers of all financial means and backgrounds. The inspiration is the example set by millions of people who give generously (and often at great personal sacrifice) to make the world a better place. For the full list of pledgers and personal letters by many of these pledgers outlining their commitment to give, visit www.givingpledge.org
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For inquiries regarding Victor Pinchuk’s pledge, contact +380 44 494 11 48, [email protected]
For general inquiries regarding the Giving Pledge, contact [email protected]
