In a world where economic disparities continue to widen, investing in humanity through Corporate Social Responsibility is not just a moral duty, it is a necessity for building a more just and compassionate society, JOSEPHINE OGUNDEJI writes
According to a report by PricewaterhouseCoopers, macroeconomic pressure points such as rising inflation, high interest rates, and naira depreciation may drive an additional 13 million people below the national poverty line by 2025.
Millions of people struggle daily with hunger, lack of shelter, poor healthcare, and limited access to education. While governments and nonprofits play a role in addressing these challenges, individuals and businesses have a unique opportunity to contribute meaningfully.
Setting aside a dedicated budget for the needy is one of the most powerful ways to create lasting change, not only improving lives but also fostering stability and economic growth. True wealth is not measured solely by accumulation but by the impact it makes on others.
To begin, it is essential to define the core focus of your humanitarian investment. Different aspects of society require varying levels of intervention, including food security, healthcare, education, economic empowerment, and emergency relief.
Identifying a specific area of impact allows for more effective resource allocation and a greater likelihood of sustainable change. For instance, a structured approach to supporting education through scholarships or vocational training has long-term benefits that extend beyond immediate financial assistance.
Budgeting for humanitarian efforts should be treated with the same level of seriousness as personal or business finances. A percentage of income—whether 5%, 10%, or a custom allocation—can be set aside monthly or annually for charitable purposes. Opening a dedicated savings account for giving ensures that resources are available when needed without disrupting other financial commitments. Additionally, leveraging tax incentives on charitable donations can make giving more efficient and sustainable in the long run.
A structured approach to philanthropy also involves selecting the right channels for disbursing funds. Donating directly to individuals in need is one approach, but partnering with reputable organisations ensures transparency, accountability, and a broader impact. Nonprofits, faith-based groups, and social enterprises often have well-established mechanisms for delivering aid effectively. Conducting due diligence before donating ensures that resources are used efficiently and reach the intended beneficiaries.
Sustainability is another critical aspect of humanitarian investment. Instead of only providing one-time aid, consider long-term solutions such as skill acquisition programmes, microfinance initiatives, and small business support. These interventions empower individuals to break free from the cycle of poverty rather than remaining dependent on continuous assistance. Investing in humanity should not be about temporary relief alone but about creating systems that uplift communities over time.
Technology has also transformed how people give to and support charitable causes. Crowdfunding platforms, digital payment systems, and blockchain-based transparency tools have made it easier to track and measure the impact of donations. Engaging in digital philanthropy allows donors to contribute seamlessly and monitor how their funds are being utilised. Additionally, social media platforms provide visibility to various causes, enabling more people to participate in collective giving efforts.
While financial support is crucial, investing in humanity goes beyond monetary contributions. Volunteering time, sharing knowledge, and mentoring those in need can be just as impactful. Many underserved communities require guidance, advocacy, and training to maximise opportunities available to them. Engaging in community development projects, mentoring young entrepreneurs, or offering legal or business advice can have transformative effects without requiring significant financial investment.
Ultimately, setting aside a budget for the needy is not just an act of charity but an investment in a better world. Every contribution, no matter how small, plays a role in reducing inequalities and fostering a more inclusive society. By adopting a strategic approach to giving, individuals and businesses can create meaningful and lasting change, ensuring that more people have access to opportunities that can improve their lives. Investing in humanity is not only a moral responsibility but also a pathway to collective progress and sustainable development.
In an interview with The PUNCH, Senior Data Analyst at eTranzact International Plc, Adedamola Adedoyin, said investing in humanity was one of the most meaningful ways to create a better world. While wealth and success are often measured by personal achievements, true fulfilment comes from uplifting others, especially those in need.
While highlighting points on the how, Adedoyin noted that with millions struggling for basic necessities like food, healthcare, and education, setting aside a dedicated budget for humanitarian efforts is not just an act of kindness but a responsibility.
He added, “Whether on an individual level, within a family, or as a business, giving has the power to transform lives and create a more equitable society.”
Define your purpose and focus
Before allocating a budget, it is essential to determine what aspect of humanity you want to support. Do you want to help children get an education, provide food for the homeless, or fund medical treatments for the sick? Defining a clear purpose ensures that your resources are used effectively. Some choose to support local charities, while others focus on global humanitarian efforts. Regardless of the cause, having a specific focus will make your giving more impactful.
Set a realistic budget
Charitable giving should be incorporated into your financial planning, just like savings or investments. A good approach is to set aside a fixed percentage of your income, such as five per cent, 10 per cent, or whatever amount is feasible, every month or year. If you run a business, consider establishing a corporate social responsibility fund to support community projects. Even small, consistent contributions can add up and make a significant difference over time.
Choose the right giving channels
Deciding how to distribute your budget is crucial. Some prefer direct giving, such as sponsoring a child’s education or assisting a struggling family, while others opt for nonprofit organisations that have structured programmes. Reputable charities, faith-based organisations, and social enterprises often have well-established systems to ensure donations reach those in need efficiently. Whichever route you choose, conducting due diligence will help ensure transparency and accountability.
Prioritise sustainable giving
While one-time donations are helpful, sustainable giving has a greater long-term impact. Instead of just providing temporary relief, consider supporting initiatives that empower people to become self-sufficient. This could include funding vocational training, providing microloans for small businesses, or supporting infrastructure projects that improve access to clean water and healthcare. Sustainable giving creates lasting change rather than dependency.
Leverage technology for philanthropy
With advancements in technology, donating has become easier and more efficient. Online crowdfunding platforms allow people to contribute to verified causes, while digital payment solutions enable automated monthly giving. Additionally, blockchain technology enhances transparency in charitable donations by tracking how funds are spent. Using these tools can help maximise the reach and effectiveness of your contributions.
Give beyond money
Investing in humanity is not only about financial contributions. Volunteering your time, sharing knowledge, and mentoring the less privileged can be just as valuable. Many communities lack guidance, advocacy, and skill-building opportunities, which can often be addressed through personal involvement. Engaging in mentorship programmes, community service, or nonprofit advisory roles can have a profound impact without requiring financial resources.
Make giving a lifestyle
True generosity is not a one-time act but a way of life. Whether through monthly donations, volunteering, or simply being mindful of the needs around you, integrating philanthropy into your daily routine ensures that helping others becomes a continuous effort. Teaching children about giving and involving employees in charitable initiatives can create a ripple effect, inspiring others to invest in humanity as well.
The bigger picture
Setting aside a budget for the needy is not just about charity; it is about creating a world where opportunities are accessible to everyone. By contributing to the well-being of others, we foster a more compassionate, stable, and progressive society. Every act of generosity, no matter how small, has the potential to change lives and uplift entire communities. In the end, investing in humanity is one of the greatest legacies anyone can leave behind.
According to the late Luther King, Jr., an individual has not started living until he can rise above the narrow confines of his individualistic concerns to the broader concerns of all humanity.
He added, “Whenever you are engaged in work that serves humanity and is for the building of humanity, it has dignity, and it has worth.”
In a similar vein, the late Mahatma Gandhi said the best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.
He asserted, “The simplest acts of kindness are by far more powerful than a thousand heads bowing in prayer.”
Also, a former president of South Africa, Nelson Mandela (now deceased), noted that it was in our hands to create a better world for all who live in it.
“There can be no greater gift than that of giving one’s time and energy to help others without expecting anything in return.”
Volunteering
Meanwhile, according to a legal practitioner, Naomi Bankyu, volunteering is one of the most powerful ways to serve humanity.
According to her, volunteering is a selfless act that goes beyond financial giving, allowing individuals to contribute their time, skills, and energy to improve the lives of others.
She posited, “In a world filled with social and economic inequalities, volunteering bridges the gap between privilege and need, fostering a culture of compassion, empathy, and communal growth. Unlike monetary donations, which may provide temporary relief, active participation in service initiatives often creates lasting change and builds stronger communities.
“One of the most profound aspects of volunteering is its ability to address urgent needs in society. From providing food to the homeless to mentoring underprivileged youth, volunteers directly impact lives through hands-on assistance. During crises such as natural disasters, pandemics, or conflicts, volunteers play a crucial role in delivering aid, medical care, and emotional support. Their presence in these situations can mean the difference between survival and suffering for many individuals in need.
“Beyond meeting immediate needs, volunteering also fosters long-term societal transformation. Programmes that focus on education, skill development, and community empowerment enable people to break free from poverty and dependence. For example, volunteering as a tutor for children in low-income areas equips them with knowledge and confidence for a brighter future. Similarly, offering vocational training to unemployed youths or women can empower them to become financially independent, creating a ripple effect of growth and stability within their communities.”
He further stated that ultimately, volunteering is not just about giving; it is about building.
“It is about creating a world where kindness, empathy, and selflessness are at the core of human interactions. By offering time and effort in service to others, volunteers become catalysts for change, helping to create a more just, equitable, and compassionate society. True service to humanity is not measured by how much we give but by how much of ourselves we dedicate to making the world a better place,” he concluded.