Donors turn to Giving Circles as economy drops

Charitable donations have been declining, along with the economy. But one type of giving appears to be on the rise: giving circles. Many people are forming these groups where they pool their funds so they can have a greater impact on a charitable cause. Their growth comes at a time when donors say they want more control over how their charitable dollars are spent. NPR, Giving Circles Knowledge Center, Giving Circles directory

Recent study: "Giving circle members are . . . more likely to give to organizations that support women. . . . In addition, the longer someone is in a giving circle, the more likely she or he is to give . . . to organizations that support women."

Engaging Next Generation Donors Next Generation donors - young givers between 18 and 40 years of age - are an important audience for philanthropy. They have a high level of passion and energy, along with the potential to develop an ethic of giving that will last their entire life.