Generosity Commission
While overall charitable contributions have grown, the percentage of Americans donating to or volunteering with nonprofits has declined. Launched in 2021 and led by co-chairs Mike Gianoni (Blackbaud) and Jane Wales (Aspen Institute’s Program on Philanthropy and Social Innovation), the Generosity Commission was established to understand this shift and empower everyday donors and volunteers.
The Commission’s culminating report, released in late 2024, provides recommendations for policymakers, business leaders, philanthropic organizations, and social innovators to foster a stronger culture of generosity, civic engagement, and partnership.
Key report recommendations for enhancing everyday generosity and volunteering:
Reinforce the leadership role of businesses, as conveners of employees, to encourage their volunteerism and giving
Increase the depth and breadth of data on giving and volunteering
Take youth seriously as givers and volunteers
