Charity Surprise: Mercedes Dream Turns Into Refund Reality
What Was Promised, What Happened
The Given Company (TGC), a social‑enterprise that launched last August, promised donors a chance to win a Mercedes‑Benz in a lucky draw. But with the draw date—originally slated for Nov 2— only a few weeks away, the company announced its cancellation. Donors are now set to receive full refunds.
Mr. Charles Tan’s Blame Game
On Oct 9, founder Charles Tan sent a notice to every donor. He blamed media buzz and public controversy over the draw for the snub. “We expected criticism, but addressing it drained our resources, slowed marketing, and hurt sales,” he said. In short, a tough week of demands and a quiet, cancellation.
Why the Draw Was Dropped
- Media firestorms and scrutiny from the Commissioner of Charities (COC).
- Criticism that the scheme sold “charity raffle tickets,” undermining pure giving spirit.
- Pressure from community and fellow trustees, who say incentives distort how people donate.
In a public apology, Mr. Tan said, “We’re sorry we can’t hand out the Mercedes-Benz after all. We understand this may leave you disappointed.”
Refunds & Charity Commitments
The COC spokesperson confirmed that TGC will refund all donors and will donate the total funds raised so far to the selected charities. The company plans to honor the charitable intent, even though the draw itself is gone.
TGC’s original plan had been to sell 50,000 t‑shirts for $20 each, where the proceeds go to the donor’s chosen charity. The purchase pulses wanted to nudge people into donating stuffy “nice‑to‑have” gestures—like a new T‑shirt—into regular, fundraising habit.
Future Draw Plans (Not Yet Finalized)
Mr. Tan hinted at a dream of a future draw that might feature a condominium unit as the grand prize, with the company taking 5–10% of every donation for operational costs. That’s a lot of stretch and hope.
Donor Voice – “I Found Out Too Late”
Jonathan Tan, a 29‑year‑old nonprofit exec, discovered the big change on Monday when he visited TGC’s website. “They said the Mercedes was replaced by a holiday and did not let me know—disappointed but not mad,” he told The New Paper. “If they raise money, I would want them to keep the promise for credibility.”
Charities Stay Informed
The Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA), one of TGC’s partner charities, said the company had explained the cancellation. “We will ensure your donors get a full refund.”
What Happens to the Prizes?
When asked by the newspaper about prizes already purchased, Mr. Tan declined to share direct answers, pointing reporters to TGC’s website and social media. Those links reveal former draws that promised prizes such as a “dream car,” an “amazing holiday,” and a “luxury condominium” for 2019.
Prospective donors still can click an “I’m interested” button to enter details and purchase tickets at $20 each, even though the current draw has been scrapped.
Bottom Line
In the end, TGC is stepping back from a shiny car raffle to try and keep the charitable mission clear. Refunds are on the way, and next year might bring a different lucky draw, or maybe none at all. For now, the community knows their money is being refunded, and the promised charitable impact is being redirected to the charities that mattered originally.
