Each year the Charities Aid Foundation compiles data from 135 countries to publish the World Giving Index. Recently the 2013 index was released, giving a picture of the generosity of planet earth’s population. The full report is available by clicking here.
Who is Number 1?
In the board picture, the United States of America (USA) had moved back into the top spot, reclaiming it from Australia, who moves to 7 on the list. New Zealand ranks second overall. Over a five year trend, the USA has the number one spot, followed by Australia and then New Zealand.
Overall, the report shows that giving is growing internationally, mainly through people being willing to help a stranger.
Specific Categories of Giving
In that specific category of being willing to help a stranger, The USA rated as number one, with New Zeeland at number six, and Australia not making the top ten (being in thirteenth place). In the category of Donating Money, surprisingly it is Myanmar who is number one. Australia and New Zealand were ranked as equal 8th place. When it comes to volunteering of time, the county of Turkmenistan came out on top, New Zealand in 8th place, and Australia much further down the list at 18th position.
So What Does it all Mean for us?
Well on one hand it means that there are a number of ways of measuring giving, and it seems different nations give in different ways. Some cultures value time more than money; some value relationships more than time; and some money over all else. From another perspective it also means that some cultures give more when times are hard, and other from out of their abundance.
It also means that as leaders of NFP organisations, we need to understand there is no “one size fits all” solution and to be aware of what the culture of giving is where we operate to ensure that we are maximising the opportunities for people to be generous in that context.
It is important to appreciate giving is a choice people make, and that there are many options available to them. We need to ensure that we are presenting to them the best option possible.
If you would further information on how Avondale Business School can help your organisation, contact Warrick Long
P: 02 4980 2168