Town Hall Discussion with Warren Buffett, Melinda French Gates and Bill Gates

In June 2006, Warren Buffett, an American investor and the second-richest man in the world, donated approximately $31-billion dollars of his worth to five charitable funds: the philanthropies established by him and his late wife, their three children, and friends Bill and Melinda Gates.

Buffett’s donation to the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, which has donated billions of dollars to help reduce inequities in the United States and promote global health and development, was the largest act of charitable giving in United States history.

In this candid discussion held at the New York Public Library, Buffett and the Gateses share their hopes for the future of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and their insights on the importance of giving. Buffett also presents all five of the recipient philanthropies with their gifts and provides his suggestions for their success.

Buffett, 75, has said he hopes the donations will trigger a windfall for charities as other prosperous individuals are inspired by his example.

“We are awed by our friend Warren Buffett’s decision to use his fortune to address the world’s most challenging inequities, and we are humbled that he has chosen to direct a large portion of it to the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation,” said Bill Gates. “The impact of Warren’s generosity will not be fully understood for decades. As we move forward with the work, we do so with a profound sense of responsibility. Working with Warren and with our partners around the world, we have a tremendous opportunity to make a positive difference in people’s lives.”

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Town Hall Related Websites:
Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation
Warren Buffett’s letter regarding his donation
Fortune: William Buffett gives away his fortune
Bill Gates’ Homepage