Skeptical Chinese donors need concrete results

• Source: Global Times
• [08:27 June 30 2010]
• Comments

As for the recipients of charity, we should also respect them and guide them to use the money to develop sustainable skills or to really solve their problems.

If one can achieve all three aspects mentioned above, I don't see why anyone will refuse to donate to you.

GT: Is there a strategic difference between asking government agencies for money and asking for funds from private individuals and enterprises?

Wang: To talk to the government agencies, you must know all the related regulations and policies by heart. Government agencies' funding comes from taxes, therefore they requires clear proposals that fit the regulations before donating.

As for private funding and enterprises, the idea itself is important. You need to be very specific on what group of people you will help and how you will help them. A clear proposal and timetable are necessary, but the after report is crucial as well. After all, such organizations give you money, and they expect to see solid results.

GT: Some say that charity has never been part of Chinese culture. People, especially the rich, don't feel obliged to give back to the society after accumulating wealth. Where do you stand on this?

Wang: You are right in saying that China lacks such environment of charity. Unlike in the West, we never had a well-rounded social welfare system in China, and we are used to taking care of ourselves instead of expecting too much from the government. And, as a result, the idea of giving back to society is weak as well. Why give back to society while I didn't get much help from it?

Yet the problematic status quo shouldn't keep us from moving ahead. China's economy is developing at a rapid pace, and the gap between the rich and the poor is getting bigger. This is the source for many social tragedies, such as the recent murders of school kids.

Some blame the government for their incompetence. I have a different view. My experience of working with government agencies allows me to see many difficulties of big organizations.

Sometimes it is hard for the government to attend to all problems. This is when the social organizations should step in.