U.S. charitable giving grew to $592.5 billion in 2024, an increase linked to gains in the stock market and economic growth, according to a recent report.
The Giving USA 2025: The Annual Report on Philanthropy said giving rose 3 percent in current dollars, or 3.3 percent after adjusting for inflation. It was the first time in three years that giving outpaced inflation.
Individuals, corporations, and foundations all made increased contributions. Individuals gave the largest share, totaling $392.45 billion, up 8.2% in current dollars. Corporations gave $44.40 billion, up 9.1%. Foundations gave $109.81 billion, a 2.4 percent rise. Bequests fell slightly to $45.84 billion.
Giving to the Community Foundation reflected the national trend.
“We had an excellent year with our donors supporting us and our many nonprofit partners to make a significant impact in our communities,” said Danita DeHaney, CEO of the Community Foundation.
Researchers said the strong economy played a role in the higher numbers. “People give when they feel financially and economically secure, and that occurred in 2024,” said Una Osili, associate dean at the Indiana University Lilly Family School of Philanthropy, which prepares the report.
Four types of nonprofit groups saw record donations even after adjusting for inflation: education; health; arts, culture, and humanities; and environment and animals. Education giving grew 13.2% to $88.32 billion. Health giving rose 5 percent to $60.51 billion.
International giving and public-society benefit groups saw the largest percentage growth, 17.7% and 19.5%, respectively. Religion remained the largest category, receiving $146.54 billion. But when adjusted for inflation, giving to religion fell 1 percent.
Leaders of the Giving USA Foundation said the report reflects broad donor support. “Generosity is alive and well in America,” said Wendy McGrady, chair of the foundation.
Amir Pasic, dean of the Lilly Family School, said individuals remain central to giving. “The role of the individual donor cannot be overstated,” he said.
The Giving USA report has been published for 70 years and is considered the most complete look at charitable giving in the United States.
