Giving and Geography

The Chronicle of Philanthropy just released a report on "How America Gives." I heard and read the report on NPR.org by Pam Fessler.    The study breaks out giving by zip code.

Study Reveals The Geography of Charitable Giving

Faith Makes a Difference
Among the findings is that giving in areas with stronger religious values giving is stronger. Giving in Salt Lake City is 9% of discretionary income. Giving in Birmingham, Alabama is 7.1% of discretionary income. Giving in more secular areas like New England (where church membership is way down) giving is lower. Vermont is at 2.8%. New Hampshire is at 2.5%.

Income and Giving
Generally, lower income Americans give more of their discretionary income than higher income Americans. There are exceptions. Higher income Americans that live in economically diverse communities tend to give more. The study suggests that higher income Americans that live and socialize exclusively with their cohorts give less.  Wealthy givers in diverse zip codes like Brooklyn, New York, Midland, Texas, Collegedale, Tennessee, and Homestead Florida give more than 28% of their discretionary Income. Wealthy givers in more isolated zip codes like in Minneapolis, Minnesota, and Indianapolis, Indiana, give less than 2%. 

A key to tapping the generosity of wealthier Americans is awareness of the issues and the needs of those is less fortunate circumstances. 

To understand more please link to the story and The Chronicle's report, How America Gives.