In a world where extreme wealth can often feel out of reach for most people, tech entrepreneur Jeff Atwood is shaking things up. While the Giving Pledge, led by Warren Buffett, encourages the super rich to donate most of their money to charity, Atwood believes there’s something missing from the equation. “When exactly will this wealth be passed on?” he pondered in a recent blog post, highlighting a key issue with the pledge.

Atwood, well-known as the co-founder of Stack Exchange and Discourse, has taken matters into his own hands by pledging to give away half of his wealth within the next five years. And he’s wasting no time. He has already made significant donations totaling millions of dollars to organizations such as Team Rubicon, PEN America, and the Trevor Project, making a real impact on causes that are close to his heart.

His journey of philanthropy is fueled by a desire to address the increasing wealth gap in America. Growing up in humble beginnings in Virginia, Atwood made a substantial fortune from the sale of Stack Overflow in 2021. Instead of holding onto his wealth for future generations, he wants to use it to level the playing field and ensure that all Americans have access to the opportunities that make up the American dream.

Inspired by recent political events and the need for unity in a divided nation, Atwood is determined to make a difference. While he hasn’t revealed the exact amount he plans to donate, his vision goes beyond immediate charity. By 2030, he hopes to support initiatives that protect democracy, encourage voter participation, and establish organizations that bring about lasting change.

“It’s time to share the wealth I’ve been fortunate enough to accumulate, not just for my family, but for all Americans,” Atwood stated. With his dedication to giving back and creating a more fair society, he is setting a new standard for philanthropy in the tech industry.