Joel Fleishman and Thomas Tierney offer their take on the meaning of the Giving Pledge.

from The Chronicle of Philanthropy:

The Giving Pledge’s Message: Philanthropy Is Not a Solo Act

… Wicked hard problems require wicked smart solutions, backed by relentless persistence. The best solutions emerge through trial and error. It is incredibly hard to give away money in a manner that creates tangible social benefits. Warren Buffett acknowledged this when he “outsourced” his billions of dollars to the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation.

… In philanthropy, nothing significant is accomplished by acting alone. Wealth may be earned by individuals, but philanthropists must avoid flying solo. Effective philanthropists collaborate with other philanthropists, with the nonprofit groups they support, and, at their best, with the beneficiaries they are aiming to serve.