Each couple or individual who chooses to pledge makes the commitment publicly and is also encouraged to issue an open letter explaining their decision. Signatories’ names and letters (if provided) are publicly listed on GivingPledge.org.
Signatories pursue their philanthropy independently and give to a wide range of issues and causes. The Giving Pledge is not an oversight organization, nor is it a pooled fund. The Giving Pledge does not distribute funds, grants, or donations in any form.
At an annual gathering, those who have joined the Pledge are invited to come together to share ideas, hear from experts in their respective fields, and learn from each other.
Throughout the year, there are additional opportunities for learning that go deeper on specific topics of interest to the group.
Signatories fulfill their pledge at different times and in a variety of ways: through traditional charities, foundations, and non-profits, including their own foundations or philanthropic vehicles; through Donor-Advised Funds (DAFs); through collaborative philanthropy or co-funding, or through other charitable vehicles.
The Giving Pledge does not solicit support for any specific philanthropic foundation, cause, or organization. The Pledge encourages signatories to support issues that inspire them personally and benefit society. Giving Pledge signatories are focused on a wide array of causes, from medical research to poverty alleviation, disaster relief, climate change and arts and culture. Some signatories focus on their local communities, while others focus on national or global issues.
Through joining the Giving Pledge, signatories commit to give the majority of their wealth to philanthropy. Many signatories have and will exceed that benchmark. Some make a series of very large gifts over a short period, while others establish a program of smaller, regular gifts distributed over many years. Each signatory’s approach to philanthropic giving is deeply personal.
After discussing eligibility with the Giving Pledge team, signatories are encouraged to write a letter stating their commitment to give the majority of their wealth to philanthropy. Signatories’ names, and letters if they have chosen to write one, are publicly posted on the Giving Pledge website. The Giving Pledge publicly announces new signatories once a year.
Only charitable giving counts toward fulfilling the Giving Pledge. Donations to political parties and candidates do not count as charitable giving and so fall outside the scope of the Pledge.
Yes. To support signatories in achieving their philanthropic goals, the Giving Pledge provides resources and information about philanthropy and supports opportunities for virtual and in-person knowledge sharing. The Giving Pledge hosts a private annual gathering for signatories in addition to smaller gatherings and learning sessions throughout the year, also including family and staff who are engaged in philanthropy. The sessions cover a wide range of issue area topics and philanthropic best practices. To learn more, visit the Community page.
