From Giving to Growing: Charity’s Role in Inclusive Development

September 5^th marks the International Day of Charity, commemorating the anniversary of the passing away of Mother Teresa of Calcutta. Receiving a Nobel Peace Prize in 1979, Mother Teresa dedicated her life to helping the poor, sick, orphaned and dying. In recognition of the role of charity in alleviating humanitarian crises and human suffering, the International Day of Charity was established to sensitize and mobilize people, NGOs, and stakeholders globally to help others through volunteer and philanthropic activities.

Charity lies at the heart of global solidarity and the building of resilient societies. Whether through direct giving, volunteering, or collective action, charity provides protection to vulnerable groups, addressing the deeper causes of poverty and inequality. Charitable efforts often fill critical gaps that governments and public services may not be able to fill and are key drivers of social progress and innovation.

Modern charity is increasingly defined by its commitment to inclusion and equity, recognizing that poverty does not exist in a vacuum but is shaped by intersecting factors such as race, gender, disability, and geography. The most effective charitable efforts are those that center the voices of marginalized communities and invest in solutions that are community-led and context-specific. This inclusive approach is supported by broader trends in the sector, such as the use of digital tools to make giving more accessible, the rise of youth leadership in social change, and a growing emphasis on ethical, transparent, and accountable philanthropy. Many organizations are also recognizing the deep links between climate change and poverty, expanding their work to address both challenges simultaneously and build long-term resilience. At its core, inclusive charity rejects one-size-fits-all models and instead focuses on partnerships rooted in trust, humility, and a shared vision for justice.

Poverty eradication is at the core of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, but it requires strong partnerships between governments, civil society, businesses, and charitable organizations. Charitable efforts are a powerful act that connects people and sectors to confront poverty, uplift communities, and to continue building a more inclusive and sustainable world for everyone.

Learn more about the International Day of Charity here.