Columbus, OH (June 14, 2018)—Hundreds of nonprofit leaders and philanthropic funders from across Columbus convened at The Columbus Foundation today to hear the results from the seminal publication Giving USA: The Annual Report on Philanthropy, which was released earlier this week.
Presenting the results was Dr. Una Osili, economist and lead researcher for the report. The publication, produced out of the Lilly Family School of Philanthropy at Indiana University, is widely considered the leading report on the sources and uses of philanthropic giving.
“We are honored to again host Dr. Osili in a discussion of philanthropic trends,” said Dan Sharpe, vice president of Community Research and Grants Management at The Columbus Foundation. “The nonprofit community always eagerly anticipates this highly regarded publication. Its impact on the understanding of the philanthropic landscape cannot be understated.”
Highlights of this year’s report include a 5.2% increase in individual giving. Additionally, corporate giving rose by 8%, and giving by foundations increased 6%. However, the most striking figure is overall charitable giving, which rose to $410 billion last year.
“The findings of the most recent Giving USA report underscore the banner year 2017 was for philanthropic organizations,” said Angela Parsons, vice president of Donor Services and Development at The Columbus Foundation. “Outstanding market performance and an anticipated tax reform bill combined to create a highly charitable environment in 2017. For 2018, the tax reform effects are still to be realized. ”
Additional report highlights can be downloaded here.
ABOUT THE COLUMBUS FOUNDATION
The Columbus Foundation serves more than 2,500 individuals, families, and businesses that have created unique funds and planned gifts to make a difference in the lives of others through the most effective philanthropy possible. Nearly 75 years strong, The Columbus Foundation is Your Trusted Philanthropic Advisor® and the eighth largest community foundation in the United States. The Foundation’s Giving Store is a one-stop shop for easy and effective philanthropy. Learn more at columbusfoundation.org.