Portrait of Philanthropy
If you looked at the portrait of a philanthropist in Howard County, you’d probably see someone who looks very much like you. According to a study authored by Jean Moon & Associates and commissioned by The Columbia Foundation, most local donors believe in philanthropy and want to “give back” to their community. Many volunteer for at least one organization, attend fundraising events and are open to fundraising requests from family members, friends, business associates and organizations with which they’re familiar.
They give to causes to which they feel connected, the study found. And their generosity may be their parents’ legacy — most said they learned about volunteering and giving at home.
- Download the full study, which was also supported by The Horizon Foundation
- Download the Executive Summary
Howard Legacy Study
The Columbia Foundation’s latest philanthropy study shows that nationally 83.6% of all giving comes from individuals, and that bequests are the fastest growing segment of unrestricted income to all charities. Organizations have barely begun to explore this resource.
The study, conducted by Jean Moon and Associates, supported in part by the Horizon Foundation, explains why bequests are important, where the anticipated wealth is in a community, and what organizations need to do to incorporate this potential in their development plans.