AAFRC Trusts for Philanthropy Releases 1999 Giving Estimates
Charitable giving surpassed $190 billion as the 1990s ended, according to
the AAFRC Trust for Philanthropy's 1999 estimates on
giving.
Since 1997, giving has increased by more than $15 billion annually. Giving
also gained ground in the context of the total economy. Since 1995, when
philanthropy represented 1.7 percent of gross domestic product (GDP), giving
as a share of GDP has steadily increased, reaching 2 percent in 1998 and 2.1
percent in 1999. Giving as a percentage of personal income has also been on
the rise. In 1995, personal giving represented 1.5 percent of personal
income. In 1998 and 1999, it reached 1.8 percent.
Contributions from individuals were largely responsible for the 1999
increase in overall giving. Personal giving rose an estimated $11.63
billion, representing nearly three-quarters of the total. Personal giving
increased 7.2 percent and reached $143.71 billion; bequest giving increased
$14.6 percent, reaching $15.61 billion.
Some of the money from the individual giving category went to private
foundations, which in turn raised their giving levels substantially. As
estimated by the Foundation Center, foundation giving increased by $2.80
billion and reached $19.81 billion. The 16.5 percent increase was directly
attributed to the increased value of foundation assets, a result of both new
personal contributions and the strong economy.
On the recipient side, religious groups, education, international affairs,
the environment, arts, and health and human services all saw increased
giving. Gifts to public/society benefit programs slowed, however.
"Giving USA 2000" data will be available on disc in June 2000, and Giving
USA 2000 will be available in book form by September 2000. (Order forms can
be downloaded at: http://www.aafrc.org)
"Total Giving Reaches $190.16 Billion as Charitable Contributions Increase
$15.80 Billion in 1999." AAFRC Trust for Philanthropy 5/24/2000.
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