In research released today, Giving USA estimates total charitable giving in 2011 increased to $298.42 billion, an increase over 2010 giving of 3.9%. While the increase is encouraging, the recovery in giving remains slow — similar to that of the economy overall.
Here are a few highlights from the 2012 report with all percent increases and decreases given in today’s dollars. The full report can be purchased, or check out the free executive summary.
Giving by Individuals:
Giving by individuals increased 3.9% to $217.79 billion and accounted for 73% of total giving in 2011.
Bequests (gifts from estates) increased by 12.2% to $24.41 billion, representing 8 percent of total giving.
When giving by individuals, bequests and family foundations is totaled, it is 88% of the total at $298.42 billion.
Giving by Private, Community and Corporate Foundations:
Grantmaking by private, community and operating foundations increased by 1.8%, representing 14% of total giving.
Giving by corporations and their foundations was flat at $14.55 billion, representing 5% of total giving.
Giving by Charity Type:
Giving to religious organizations — the largest type of recipient at 32% of giving — was down 1.7% to $95.88 billion.
Giving to education — 13% of total giving — was $38.87 billion, a 4% increase.
Giving to foundations — 9% of total giving — was down 6.1% to $25.83 billion.
Giving to human services organizations — 12% of total giving — was up 2.5% to $35.39 billion.
Giving to the arts, culture and humanities — 4% of total giving – increased 4.1% to $13.12 billion.
Giving in Minnesota:
For a look at the latest giving numbers in Minnesota, take a look at MCF’s Giving in Minnesota, 2011 Edition. The Minnesota report covers overall giving in the state from 2009, which includes data from the fiscal years of Minnesota foundations and corporate giving programs that end between June 1, 2009, and May 31, 2010.
- Susan Stehilng, MCF communications associate
Posted by MCF Webmaster 
