Walking the walk

In 2003, Chen established Jiangsu Huangpu Recycling Resources, but his focus was always on his charity work. He became a household name during the devastating Wenchuan earthquake in Sichuan Province that struck on May 12, 2008.

An hour after hearing the news of the disaster, Chen mobilized his forces and took 200,000 yuan ($30,769) in cash, 2 million yuan ($307,692) in checks, 60 excavators and 120 workers to Wenchuan, becoming the first non-government rescue team to reach the site.

Chen was personally responsible for rescuing 14 survivors and carried out more than 100 bodies. In total his team rescued 131 survivors, carried out several thousands of bodies and helped unblocked the road connecting the two crushed counties of Beichuan and Wenchuan. At the final tally, Chen's overall donation was valued at 70 million yuan ($10.77 million).

"I was shocked and saddened by the disaster. Why can't we have more people to help these emergencies?" said Chen. "You can criticize me as a hypocritical philanthropist, but please help those poor people while criticizing me."

Chen was also personally involved in Japan after the tsunami and earthquake this year, rescuing three survivors.

Persistent

Despite much criticism, an increasing number of people have changed their attitude to the high-profile approach to charity and are following Chen's example. A lot of them have committed to donating their savings to charity after their death. "I am deeply moved by them," said Chen.

"I appreciate Mr. Chen's behavior in regards to charity. What he did can help encourage more people to participate in China's charity work," said Li Liguo, Minister of Civil Affairs at a press conference during the annual session of the National People's Congress in early March.

Chen also admitted that under the current charity environment in China, he is pushing too hard to persuade other entrepreneurs to donate. He thinks that is why so many doubt his sincerity and are critical of his publicity seeking actions.

"But, wherever and whenever people need me, I will immediately give out my helping hand to them like before," said Chen.