Fung Group empowers its staff to make a difference

The Fung Group takes an original approach to charity, letting staff choose the causes it supports.

Employees have initiated more than 30 projects a year, and 180 over the last five years.

"We trust our people," said Wong Kai-man, director of the Fung Foundation, the group's charity. "If they are willing to offer up their spare time, we support them."

This is the third year staff have opted to participate in Operation Santa Claus, a charity drive organised by the and RTHK.

Three teams totalling more than 40 staff along with family and friends, joined in the Santa on the Beach games day at Stanley yesterday. Wong said they enjoyed the games and activities, which "also enabled our people to build up their own team spirit".

Tsang Hin-sze, a staff member who took part yesterday, said she had a lot of fun. "We heard from colleagues that it was fun last year, so I came. It's great that we can play and at the same time help people in need," Tsang said.

This year, the Fung Foundation donated HK$130,000 to Operation Santa. "We don't just give money away," Wong said. "It's our philosophy that our people participate, either by using their time, expertise or experience."