Graham-Pelton

💰 The latest Giving USA report highlights that individual giving still makes up a large proportion of overall giving, showcasing how personal contributions are transforming lives and uplifting communities. To complete our series, Laura Stoffel McGarry offers her thoughts on individual giving in America: "Individual giving remains a cornerstone of American philanthropy, making up a significant portion of the overall giving landscape. The latest Giving USA report highlights this, and while the share of individual giving has declined over time, this shift is more about the mechanisms of giving rather than a reduction in generosity. The rise in foundation giving and donor-advised funds (DAFs) reflects a strategic evolution in how individuals choose to donate. Individuals are still the driving force behind these contributions, driven by personal missions and the desire to transfer their wealth strategically. They opt for family foundations or DAFs as vehicles that offer more control and alignment with their long-term philanthropic goals. Understanding what drives individuals to give and the mechanisms they use is crucial for adapting to this evolving landscape."

The 2024 Giving USA report indicates that foundation giving topped $100 billion for the second consecutive year. 🙌 Gerry Wawrzynek offers his thoughts on this trend: "Donors are increasingly channeling their contributions through foundations. There are perhaps a number of reasons, one of which might suggest a decline in trust towards individual organizations alongside a rise in donor sophistication, emphasizing the need for transparency and effective management of funds. Sustained high levels of foundation giving have fostered innovation in philanthropy, with foundations expanding their impact through strategies like unrestricted giving and impact investing. This shift highlights a growing strategic approach to philanthropy, where donors seek assurance that their contributions are managed effectively and transparently. It reflects an evolution in fundraising and philanthropy, emphasizing the importance of trust, transparency, and accountability in the nonprofit sector."

How should nonprofits respond to fluctuating giving trends in uncertain times? 🤔 Bridget A. Murphy, CFRE offers her thoughts on the resilience of philanthropic giving, and the important role fundraisers play in moving the philanthropic mission of the organization forward: “'Good news/bad news' is my overarching takeaway on this year’s Giving USA Report. While it’s positive to see that overall giving reached a record height of $557 billion and results were “better than expected” amid concerns about a recession, conflicts in the world, and continued post-pandemic fallout, overall giving actually decreased by 2.1% when adjusted for inflation. Additionally, the percentage of giving by individuals has decreased while corporate and foundation giving has increased. This is particularly frustrating when we view it in relation to the strong performance of the stock market and rise in disposable income in 2023. So, what does this mean for nonprofits and fundraising professionals? Despite this gloomy perspective, the good news is that this report reaffirms that charitable giving is still one of the most resilient, recession-proof sectors. We often hear clients contemplating pausing their campaigns or fundraising efforts due to 'these uncertain times.' We always advise against this. When have times ever been certain? Year after year, the data consistently shows that charitable giving remains resilient, even during economic downturns and uncertainties. Americans continue to give, but it’s crucial to recognize that this generosity is driven by dedicated professionals who ask, make the case, and connect donors with meaningful missions. Without these efforts, the impact of charitable giving would be significantly diminished. It is imperative, now more than ever, for nonprofit organizations to “double down” by investing in their fundraising efforts, hiring effective professional fundraising staff, increasing their communications about the impact and importance of philanthropy for their organization, and making high-profile campaigns a priority." 🔥 Learn how Graham-Pelton can help your organization interpret the 2024 Giving USA Report for your board: https://buff.ly/4eFTmth

✨ With the release of the 2024 Giving USA report, Graham-Pelton aims to utilize the latest trends and insights to provide expert fundraising consulting services for nonprofits. Over the next few days, several of our experts will highlight their take on these new findings to help you navigate the evolving landscape of philanthropy. Phil Hills offers his thoughts on how demographic changes have significantly boosted bequest contributions in 2023: "Bequests experienced growth last year, a trend driven by demographic changes that emphasize their growing importance in philanthropy. These shifts suggest that bequests will remain crucial in charitable giving. We are also observing these trends influencing wealth distribution within the foundation sector, as many families choose foundations as a means to manage their wealth. Additionally, evolving family dynamics and generational changes are shaping the ways and means of donations, reflecting the dynamic nature of charitable giving." Stay tuned as our experts continue to decode the evolving trends in philanthropy and how they can benefit your organization. 👉 Need guidance in explaining the Giving USA data to your board? Graham-Pelton can help: https://buff.ly/45EDIu1 #GrahamPelton #Philanthropy #GivingUSA #Nonprofit

🌟 Excited to be among 600+ attendees at ICGS in Baltimore, MD! 🌟 If you're at the conference, stop by our table to connect with Laura Stoffel McGarry and Nicole Antil. On Day 1, Nicole Antil presented alongside Miss Hall's School on the topic of how purpose and meaningful connection helped Miss Hall's School raise $75M! Schedule a meeting with Graham-Pelton; we'd love to connect to discuss how we can help your school achieve its philanthropic goals: https://buff.ly/4ceHFbs

Graham-Pelton is proud to sponsor the International Coalition of Girls' Schools (ICGS) Conference. Join us June 24th - 26th, in Baltimore, MD for this premier event in girls' education! Don't miss this opportunity to connect with members from our team Laura Stoffel McGarry and Nicole Antil!. They will provide comprehensive fundraising insights and expertise to elevate your nonprofit's impact. If you're interested in scheduling a meeting at the conference, we'd love to discuss how we can support your philanthropic goals: https://lnkd.in/eXQXhbSC #grahampelton #ICGS #philanthropy #fundraising

Graham-Pelton's Meredith (Westerlund) Schneider was interviewed by The Chronicle of Philanthropy to provide her insights in the rise of big gifts this year. Read the full article here: https://lnkd.in/e3qdHs4n #Fundraising #Nonprofits #Philanthropy #Giving

If you’re going to AVAP, you don’t want to miss this talk: Engaging Grateful Clients is About More Than Gratitude (hint: that’s why we call it Beyond Gratitude!) The esteemed Walt Edwards will unpack the unintended disconnect that occurs when engaging clinical partners in gratitude-focused programs. You’ll leave with new insights and skills that improve clinical partner engagement and referral quality. #GrahamPelton #GratefulPatient #Fundraising #AVAP

Our own Bridget A. Murphy, CFRE with Steve Forbes following his inspiring talk at OceanFirst Foundation's summer gathering of nonprofit CEO and board leaders! Thank you, OceanFirst Foundation, for inviting us to sponsor.

SUNY CUAD is in full swing and our own Amy Buick, CFRE and Laura Stoffel McGarry are there to share proven fundraising strategies and recent trends impacting colleges and universities around the country. And by the looks of it, they're having a great time. (Are you wondering what made Laura laugh so hard? Same here! If you bump into them, be sure to ask!) Graham-Pelton has a long history of working with SUNY schools to elevate their philanthropy. That's why we are pleased to sponsor the 2024 SUNY CUAD Annual Conference! #GrahamPelton #SUNYCUAD #Philanthropy #Fundraising