|
How can I be useful, of what service can I be? There's something inside me, what can it be?
- Vincent van Gogh
|
What do we do?
Asian Foundation for Philanthropy, established in November 2004, is a UK-based charity which helps British Asians who want to make a difference to social and economic development in India. Using our network and research expertise, we provide avenues for donating and volunteering towards grassroot causes.
The British Asian Community
Diaspora can be defined as any people or ethnic population who having being forced or induced to leave their place of origin, retain strong cultural and traditional ties with their homelands.
The British Asian community is thriving. While making up just 2.5 % of the British population, the community accounts for 10 per cent of its economic output. Having achieved great financial success, philanthropy creates the possibility of new successes in improving people’s standard of living in South Asia.
A Culture of Social Service
There is a vibrant culture of social service amongst the British Asian community. Some are guided by the emphasis on sharing in Indian religions. Many people like to donate to charity or volunteer at certain times of the year, on special religious and cultural occasions. Others are inspired by family traditions of giving. And for many British Asians, a commitment to social service stems from a passion for building more just and strong communities.
Barriers to Giving
However, philanthropy to Indian charities remains low. There are various legislative and bureaucratic regulations involved in the process. In addition, it is often impossible to sort out insincere organizations from the ones which are able to make a genuine difference with the necessary funds.
How can AFP help?
AFP was set up to help British Asians overcome these barriers. Our services help unlock the community's potential to make a huge contribution to grassroots development in India.
We are committed to ensuring that every penny given by a donor is used to empower disadvantaged people in India. We are passionate about working to address root causes of poverty in India. We help channel resources to organizations which strive to expand people’s long-term social and economic prospects.
