Young people are donating generously

YOUNG people are leading the way in giving back to the homeless and less fortunate, according to the latest Giving Report. The report detailed the different ways South Africans donate and volunteer. The report revealed that younger people aged between 18 and 24 made larger donations on average than people aged 55 and over.

Younger people were also significantly more likely than those aged 35-44, 45-54 and 55 and over to get involved in volunteering activities.

Gill Bates, chief executive for Charities Aid Foundation Southern Africa, an organisation that encourages a philanthropic culture in South Africa by increasing and facilitating giving, philanthropy, corporate social investment and volunteering, said the report is one of an international series created by Charities Aid Foundation’s global alliance.

“When looking at the findings of the SA Giving 2017 report, which provides insight into individual giving in the country, we are reminded that the resilient spirit of Ubuntu is alive and well.

“It’s positive to note that almost nine out of 10 people surveyed (88%) took part in a charitable activity in the 12 months under review.

“This report helps us to understand the ways we give in more detail. It is through these insights that we can reflect, develop and grow in order to work more effectively to strengthen civil society.”

The survey said almost nine out of 10 people surveyed took part in at least one charitable activity, over the 12 months that the survey was conducted.

The most commonly undertaken activities were giving money directly to people in need and to give money to a church or religious organisation.

“Despite challenging economic circumstances, the report reveals that individuals in SA, particularly the younger generation, continue to give of their time and money to assist individuals and communities in need.”

He said in their research, the most popular cause to donate to and volunteer for was helping the poor.

“Out of those who had donated, in the past four weeks the median amount given was R500, while the average donation was R1 306 over the period.

“The typical (median) amount given did not differ between those with the highest incomes (over R500 000) and those with the lowest incomes (less than R100 000), with people in each group giving a median donation of R500.”

The preferred methods of donating was via donation boxes in shops, followed by cash donations at the office of the charity, as well as digital donating. – Staff Reporter