The transformative power of generosity

When it comes to generosity, the desire to give back often transcends borders, cultures, and boundaries. For Dr. Carl Thong, founder of Sunstone Group, a multi-faceted holding company with businesses around the world, giving has been a transformative journey. And it has ignited a newfound sense of purpose within his family as they engage on a global scale.

Growing up in Indonesia, Carl was first exposed to the idea of sacrificial giving through the Christian missionaries he met at the international school he attended. But the real game-changer for his family’s giving happened seven years ago when he and his wife, Jessie Tan, were invited to an event by TrustBridge Global CEO, Bob Collins.

“We didn't really understand the concept of generosity until we went to a Journey of Generosity event,” Carl says. “It was a small group retreat that explored living with biblical generosity in our marriage and through our businesses, which is important for our faith.”

Inspired by this encounter, Carl and Jessie embarked on a mission to create a positive impact in the lives of others through their business endeavors and charitable efforts. 

A foundation for global giving

At first, their giving was primarily focused on their church and local charities where they live in Singapore. While their businesses are international, the aspiration to extend their charitable impact beyond their local community was hindered by logistical challenges and limited knowledge of international giving opportunities.

But that all changed when TrustBridge helped them set up a Foundation Fund, a donor-advised fund that functions like a foundation for their giving.

"TrustBridge was a game-changer," Carl says. "Setting up our donor-advised fund was a breeze, and suddenly, our world of giving expanded exponentially."

Their fund is named JCEN Foundation—which stands for Jessie, Carl, and their two teenage children, Ethan and Natalie. They use it as a tool to cultivate their shared values and commitment to making a difference as a family.

“We aspire to cultivate a family culture for Natalie and Ethan that is rooted in the principles of responsible stewardship of the gifts God has entrusted to us,” Carl says.

Over the past few years, the family's contributions have supported initiatives ranging from empowering coffee farmers in Africa and empowering social entrepreneurs in Southeast Asia to providing humanitarian relief and meeting the needs of vulnerable children in Romania, India, Uganda, Ukraine, and Thailand.

Serving the underbanked

Another endeavor that Carl has helped launch is Re:start, a social impact digital banking app. It focuses on serving the needs of employees who live paycheck to paycheck and those starting a new chapter in their lives, such as immigrants and refugees.

“Through innovative technology and global partners, we are working to provide banking and financial solutions for people who are struggling with the insurmountable barriers of traditional banking,” Carl says.

“Using our knowledge and expertise, we want to provide creative products and solutions that enhance their short-term and long-term financial security.”

To be strategic, Carl has also set up a Restart Foundation donor-advised fund with TrustBridge.

Everyone can make a difference

As Carl and his family embrace a lifestyle of generosity, they love to share the joy and contentment they feel with everyone they meet––and they believe giving is for everyone, regardless of financial means.

“The value of generosity is not measured solely by the amount given, but by the spirit and sacrifice underlying the gesture,” Carl says. “We can all make a difference when we give from the heart.”

“We should never forget the profound impact of selfless giving and the transformative power of a compassionate heart.”