Americans gave over $471 billion in 2020!

Challenging and complex year inspires record growth in giving: $471.44 billion contributed!

Today is the release of Giving USA 2021, the longest running and most comprehensive analysis of charitable giving in this country. Take 5 minutes to learn from Keith Curtis and Victoria Dietz as they give an overview of the results and how you can use this data at your organization.

What should you focus on?

The events of 2020, the pandemic, the recession and the social and political movement toward racial justice, have affected every aspect of our lives. Charitable giving is no exception.

Yes, charitable giving set another record, surpassing $471 billion! However, this new milestone cannot be viewed separately from the ongoing struggles and complexity. So, what should we be focusing on in the midst of this complexity?

• Americans dug deep — In our time of need, American’s gave, and gave generously. Specifically, individuals and foundations, buoyed by the strong stock market at year end, increased their charitable giving over 2019. Individual giving is still the driving force of giving in this country, contributing almost 9 out of every 10 dollars (counting family foundations and bequests).
• Nonprofits rallied to support those in need. — Facing an increased demand, shuttered venues and a challenging philanthropic and political environment, nonprofits pivoted and did it with resilience and innovation. Nonprofits used virtual events, tours and donor engagement opportunities. Many fundraisers mastered the art of the virtual ask. Online giving reached a new record in the share of total giving.

For more information, be sure to log in to our upcoming webinars and visit our blog. You can also purchase the full report from Giving USA Foundation.