What moves us give money to charity?

If not all, most giving is done through some sort of social interaction. Studies show that eighty-five per cent of donations are made in response to a direct request – through a friend, on the doorstep, through a media appeal. Interestingly, some people feel obligated because of their reputations – they want to establish them or don’t want to damage them. And maybe that is why I am doing this. There is a benefit to giving,…and I truly do enjoy it, not just because it’s the right thing to do, but because I want to!

So who gives the most?

Religious people tend to be the most giving across the board. There is a lot of research on that, and it applies across cultures. This is partly because of the values they have grown up with, and nobody wants to go to ‘Hell’ if they are not charitable. As a policy, if you are presently funded by any religious organizations, then I tend not to support your cause, not because I am a bad or evil person, but because you are already dealing with a group that supports you, and I encourage you to continue to seek funding from those who share your values. As a ‘rule’ of thumb, it is of my opinion that religious organization do create what is termed ‘Rice Christians’ meaning that they underprivileged are encouraged to accept that organizations belief before or while benefiting from their dollars, and when conditions are placed upon a gift, then really is that a gift or another a mannerism to hold a control over someone?

Will the Fabian Trust discriminate over gender, color or creed?

I am a worldly man; I have traveled the world over and have met all kinds of people, some good, some bad, and some that I am proud to call my friend. Life is valuable, and if that person is straight, gay or whatever, they are a living, breathing human being that is valued, and if in need, I am proud to say that my dollars are supporting them. And you know why, because if they had the funds to do so, it is my belief that they would do the very same. Again, if someone says, “I love my neighbor, so long as they are not gay, of a different color, race, of faith.” Then is this love?

Were you always rich?

No, I was not always rich. I grew up in a big family, we were a mix bunch, I had three half-brothers and older sister and a younger brother and sister, the youngest being ill at birth passed away after a very short few hours. My father was a military man and was a part time entrepreneur doing all kinds of things, after-all he had eight of us to feed and on a military pay, well let’s just say my mom was creative with the household budget. My parents participated in charity drives and we all had a hand in being good neighbors.

As a young man I started a business in 1991 that grew rapidly and made some incredibly good money. As a principle, I am a generous person. I am not saying this to be self-serving; I am saying this because that is whom I am. Sadly, some people saw my generosity as weakness, and I had a battle on my hands to save my company. In 2007 as a business strategy and as recommended by the mature advisors I saved the company forcing me to use my savings and by doing so had to declare personal bankruptcy.

But my giving and having a selfless spirit did not end, even when I had truly little, I found ways to give of my time or something that I had shared with others. Since 2007, surrounding myself with a small team of talented, smart, and brave souls I have restructured my business, rebuilt my financial well-being and once again, the Fabian Trust is seeking to find those who are truly in need.

Why do I believe in micro-loans?

Fabian Trust works with microfinance institutions on five continents to provide forgivable loans to people without access to traditional banking systems. It is true that some micro-loans have caused more harm than good. As with anything, oversight is necessary. And as with the FabianTrust, it is a gift, as such any loan that is not repaid is forgiven. Fabian Trust does not use any collection agencies whatsoever. Each file is reviewed and should circumstances warrant the beneficiary can borrow again, however abuse of the generosity is not tolerated.

How is the FabianTrust funded?

100% of every dollar from the Fabian Trust goes directly towards funding a deserving recipient, either directly when possible or through a bonified agency that is transparent in their administration fee’s. The funds are those of Mr. Fabian and is from his own personal resources. The FabianTrust does not and has not ever sought funding from outside sources, be they political or religious intuitions, foundations or other. Fabian Trust does not charge, collect interest to our Field Partners, who administer the loans.

Can I give to the FabianTrust?

You cannot give to the Fabian Trust, however if it is your earnest desire to give, then we encourage you to go out into your community and find an organization you are comfortable with that will benefit from your gift. Fabian Trust does not and has never advertised for money, asked, or sought out others to fund its mandate. "Now, I don't pretend to tell you how to find happiness and love, when every day is a struggle to survive. But I do insist that you do survive, because the days and the years ahead are worth living for! " Edith Keeler, "The City on the Edge of Forever"

How can people be persuaded to give more?

We need role models. Perhaps my example will move others, even if it’s in a small way. I am following the example of so many before me, and while I do this, I hope that others find a way that they share what they have. Every faith, every culture has a form of the Golden Rule, to harm none, to love your neighbor, to be kind with each other, to be a better person today than you were yesterday.

So where does the money go?

FabianTrust mirrors the persona of its founder Mr. Peter Fabian. Children in need,…be they here in Canada or elsewhere around the world are and always a priority. Our environment is also an urgency and so too are the respect and care of our animal friends.