Billions Given to Charity in 2010

Americans gave nearly four percent more to charities in 2010 ($291 billion) compared to 2009 ($280.3 billion) reported the Giving USA Foundation and the Center on Philanthropy at Indiana University. However, it was still more than six percent below a 2007 record. Patrick Rooney, executive director of the Center on Philanthropy said, “The sobering reality is that many nonprofits are still hurting.” The study estimates the giving by about 75 million households, up to 1.5 million corporations, an estimated 120,000 estates and about 77,000 foundations. The money goes to more than 1.2 million registered charities and some 350,000 American religious congregations. [Reuters.com]