My Giving Pledge
Arthur M. Blank
April 19, 2012

 

Eighteen years ago this month, my family established The Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation with the goal of sharing our blessings by giving back to the communities that made our good fortune possible. My intent then, as now, was to dedicate my time and the majority of my wealth to our philanthropic endeavors.

Since its establishment, with the participation of my family, the Foundation has given more than $250 million to charitable causes, ranging from education and youth development to the arts and the environment.

Now, as I approach my 70th birthday, I am more committed than ever to making a difference through philanthropy. The needs in our society are more profound than at any point in my lifetime. The gap between rich and poor in America is growing. Philanthropy alone cannot repair all of the social injustice in our county or the world. It can, however, inspire good will, spark innovation and provide thought leadership.

Through our Foundation’s work, we are fighting childhood obesity in Georgia; leading the development of a transformational community-wide network of paths, parks and transit called the Atlanta Beltline; challenging our state to invest more resource in early childhood education; testing education reforms that will allow every child to reach his or her potential; and making sure that children and families have access to the vitality of the arts regardless of their economic circumstances.

Recognizing that there are many other equally vital needs that would benefit from philanthropic investment, my family decided to invest in the areas around which we have the most personal passion. Just as it was a personal passion that led to the success of The Home Depot, passion drives my philanthropy.

I’ve been fortunate, and in many ways I am humbled because of that. My family is grateful that they have been the beneficiaries of The Home Depot’s success, and with me they feel a responsibility to leave the world a better place than we found it.

The associates of the Blank Family of Businesses — from the Atlanta Falcons and the Atlanta Falcon Physical Therapy Centers to the PGA TOUR Superstores to our guest ranch in Montana — are motivated by knowing that their efforts, their talent and their passion contribute not only to our business success but to making a difference for those less fortunate.

I am honored to join those who have gone before me in signing this Giving Pledge.