Indiana University’s report estimates overall charitable giving was up 5.4% in 2014. Total giving has recovered since the recession and has now has surpassed the previous high points in 2007 and 2005.
Chronicle of Philanthropy has more: Philanthropy Surges 5.4% to Record $358 Billion, Says “Giving USA”.
Charities in the religious category, as defined by the study, still draw the largest portion of total giving. However, the growth in that sector was only 0.9%, wich education increased 3.2% and arts/culture/humanities increased 7.5%.
Here is the average percent of disposable income donated by individuals
- 2.0% – 2014
- 2.0% – 2013
- 1.8% – 1.9% – range for 2008 through 2012
- 2.4% – 2000