For some years now, private philanthropic activities have played an increasingly significant role in circumstances where governments are not always able to step in.

In recognition of this, BNP Paribas Wealth Management has organised an international conference on philanthropy and sustainable development since 2007, and since 2008 has bestowed Awards for Individual Philanthropy that honour the remarkable initiatives of major philanthropists. 

On 17 June 2010, the Award for Individual Philanthropy was awarded to the Chagnon family with a special prize going to Mr. Chung To.

The Chagnon Foundation, which was established in 1988, contributes to the development of health awareness and improvement in the general health of the population of Quebec by preventing poverty and disease. The charity focuses its efforts on promoting a healthy lifestyle for children and their parents and, more specifically, encourages children to achieve academic success. A recent study has demonstrated that there is a very close link between passing secondary school exams and the state of health and well-being of the local population.

Since its creation in 1998 by Mr. Chung To, the Chi Heng Foundation (meaning “wisdom in action” in Chinese) has helped over 12,000 children affected by AIDS in more than 200 villages in China. The Foundation provides homosexuals and sex industry workers with the means to protect themselves against the virus.

The 2010 award winners were selected by an independent jury made up of experts from not-for-profit associations as well from artistic, cultural and entrepreneurial backgrounds.