I have been on my own ‘Giver’s Journey’ with GreaterGood South Africa for the past five years and in this time have learned to appreciate how, as givers, we become social investors and partners in development, not just well-meaning benefactors.

Starting with an initial awareness of the issues, I have journeyed towards a sense of stewardship, where my giving is thoughtful, considered and focused on making a really meaningful difference and, as far as possible, contributing to true sustainable development. And I have come to expect a ‘return’ on my social investments even if that return means knowing about the use, impact and benefit of my giving.

In my line of work, decisions are made based on ensuring that resources are deployed where they are most effective and where they will generate a commercial financial return. It’s about ensuring efficiency in the system with minimal wastage of resources. As a social investor, I believe it is important to apply these same standards to investments in development.

This is precisely what GreaterGood SA has done since its inception in 2004, helping thousands of people, companies and organisations understand their part in the giving journey and moving them towards the ultimate destination of sustainable development.

Although 2008-09 proved to be more difficult than its predecessor, thanks to the crisis in the global economy, it was a very good year for GreaterGood SA. I am immensely proud, having taken over from Bheki Sibiya as GreaterGood’s new Chair, that the organisation managed to significantly expand its reach, activity and client base while maintaining the same high standards of service excellence and accountability to investors that it has become known for.

There was a substantial increase in the number of causes registered with the Trust, as well as in the number of donor investors and amount of funds raised. Thanks to coverage in the media, there was also an increase in the general public’s awareness of GreaterGood SA’s work and the importance of meaningful giving in South Africa. But perhaps most importantly from my perspective, are the strides that we made towards the self-sustainability of the organisation.

The effects of the economic crisis will continue to be felt in the coming year, making it even more important that we give proper thought to our investment decisions – both social and financial. And GreaterGood SA’s message – that everyone has something to give – is now more relevant than ever. Money is not the only currency of giving. Time, skills and goods are not only valuable but environmentally sound and necessary too.

Whatever happens in the years ahead, we cannot, as humans, carry on as we have until now. We have to look at how to live with the planet, rather than out of it. And this is where GreaterGood SA can make an enormous impact. With our dedicated board and leadership, and the passion to find solutions to the problems we face as a country and globally, GreaterGood SA can forge a new path at this turning point in history.

In the coming year, let us use what we can, together, to change lives for good.


Raymond Ndlovu
Chair, GreaterGood SA