Concerns about a “generosity crisis” have been prevalent among nonprofit fundraisers as U.S. household donations have seen significant declines. A newly released survey by the Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research provides insights into the current state of charitable giving in the United States. The findings suggest that while a majority of Americans contributed to charities over the past year, there are mixed signals for those aiming to enhance giving trends.
The survey, published on Tuesday, indicates that approximately three-quarters of U.S. adults reported household contributions to charitable organizations. However, about one-quarter of participants disclosed their households donated nothing. Most donors contributed $500 or less, a figure that remains below the threshold for major gifts at even the smallest nonprofits. Despite challenges such as federal aid reductions and major funders’ tepid responses, the fact that many Americans are still giving, albeit modestly, offers a glimmer of hope for the sector.
The past year has been challenging, marked by rising living costs and the distraction of frequent small-dollar fundraising appeals during a high-stakes presidential election. Among those surveyed, adults under 45 years old were more likely to report not donating any money, regardless of income, suggesting a possible generational shift in charitable inclinations.
Religious organizations remain the most common recipients of donations, with many Americans contributing to groups addressing basic needs like food and shelter. About 40% of adults stated they donated to organizations providing essential services within the U.S., while a similar proportion supported religious institutions, including churches, mosques, and synagogues. Some individuals expressed a preference for donating to their religious communities, believing these groups use their contributions more effectively.
In addition, approximately 30% of respondents donated to disaster relief efforts, and around a quarter supported animal care organizations. Personal experiences, like those of individuals affected by disasters, can significantly influence giving behaviors. One respondent, who lost pets in a wildfire, emphasized the importance of helping others in need, reflecting a belief in the value of mutual aid and community support.
Generational differences were evident in the survey results. Younger adults were less likely than their older counterparts to make monetary donations, with about 30% of those under 45 reporting no contributions, compared to 20% of those aged 45 and older. This trend extended beyond financial donations, as older adults were more inclined to donate goods like food and clothing.
Household financial status likely influences these giving patterns. Lower-income individuals were less likely to contribute financially, while older adults generally have higher household incomes. However, the survey hints that younger generations may have a differing perspective on the responsibility to help those in need, with many feeling less obligated to contribute, even when financially able.
Some respondents highlighted the enduring benefits of giving, with one retiree noting her belief in the cyclical nature of generosity. Although personal hardships, such as damage from natural disasters, can limit financial contributions, many continue to support their communities in various ways, including volunteering and donating essential items.
The survey also revealed that while 70% of adults donated goods in the past year, only 30% volunteered their time. Despite challenges, individuals like those interviewed remain committed to charitable acts, driven by personal experiences and a belief in the importance of giving back.
The Associated Press, in collaboration with The Conversation US and with funding from Lilly Endowment Inc., conducted the AP-NORC poll from March 20-24 with a sample of 1,229 adults. The survey, designed to be representative of the U.S. population, has a margin of sampling error of plus or minus 3.9 percentage points.