What GIVING USA 2009 Didn't Tell Us

After looking at what has happened to our economy, I think the generosity of our donors is astounding. $307.65 billion contributed in 2008 - 75% from individuals. Gifts were made by people who may have been hit by the recession and lost jobs, assets, and possibly personal dreams. One thing we learned is that regardless of their problems, charitable supporters don't want to let their favorite charities down. 

But here's what I don't understand and Giving USA 2009 didn't explain: only 7% of this astonishing sign of generosity come from bequests.  I can't believe longevity improvement has taken us so far that we can blame this on less people dying.  So, where's the money?

We know that most of the giving came from people who just couldn't give up on supporting worthy causes, so why aren't these worthy causes included in more estate plans? 

I think it's because so many professional development people, so obviously skilled and comfortable in asking people for gifts, are nervous and completely tongue-tied when it comes to asking to be remembered with a bequest.  This is just my opinion (well, it is my blog), but what other reason could there be - especially with all the studies that have been done lately that outline which planned giving prospects are more likely to give which gift?  

Here's something I think we can take away from Giving USA 2009''s report that wasn't specifically highlighted: bringing in more bequests and planned gifts is directly tied to asking - just as with any other charitable donation.  And, if people were so clearly willing to stretch themselves in this very tough time to support the charities they love, why wouldn't they consider a bequest as well?  You just have to ask.



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Posted by Planned Giving Breakthroughs at 6/12/2009
Categories: Planned Giving
Tags: planned gifts giving usa 2009 nonprofit bequests
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  • 6/12/2009 Judith Factor wrote:
    Lorri, my "small" organization does not have a formal planned giving program. The organization has never had the expertise to solicit bequests and we've always solicited/used contributions for immediate needs. I know bequests are an untapped resource for us and many other small organizations, of which there are thousands.
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  • 12/9/2009 hacer dinero wrote:
    Lorri you are right, here in my country we just ran an annual "marathon" in favor of child with special needs. There were fears that we couldnt raise enouhg due to the economy. really we doubled lasts years amount. Some people are very generous.
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    1. 12/9/2009 Planned Giving Breakthroughs wrote:
      I think the best "givers" are people who care.  People will always reach a little deeper into their pockets when they are moved by a cause or mission.
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