December 2006

Season's greetings from the Institute for Philanthropy, where we reflect on twelve eventful, enjoyable months, and prepare to face the challenges held by the coming year.

As we approach the festive period, it's natural to think primarily of family and friends. However, the visit of current members of The Philanthropy Workshop to Ghana reminded us that there are certain issues, even at times such as these, that should never be far from our minds.

Thankfully, Christmas is increasingly a time when the British public considers those people, both within and beyond the UK's borders, who have far fewer opportunities. The trend of exchanging ethical gifts is one which continues to be robustly upward: last year, according to an estimated £230 million was spent on presents on this type. This, promisingly, reveals a strong impulse to give in the UK, one that we hope to nurture in the months ahead.

In that vein, let's hope that Christmas 2006 sees those figures for ethical gift giving rise further still, and paves the way for yet greater generosity in 2007. We look forward to being in touch again in the New Year, with news of further progress: in the meantime, we wish you all an excellent break.

Dr. Salvatore LaSpada
Chief Executive
December 2006