Our Region, Our Giving 2009

Publication date:

June, 2009

This edition of Our Region, Our Giving is a departure from tradition. In the midst of the Great Recession, we felt it prudent to go straight to the source - our members - to find out how the economy is effecting philanthropy.

The recession has served as a crucible for many grantmakers, providing an impetus to reduce expenses, reevaluate priorities, and promote and engage in collaboration.
A lower percentage of grantmakers reported a decrease in assets in 2009 (65%) than in 2008 (86%). Some saw a decline in 2009 as a result of increasing their payout rates.
Grantmakers expect to give fewer grants in 2010 than in 2009.
More respondents expect their grants budgets to decrease than increase in 2010. Nearly half expect a decline; roughly one in six expect a decline of 5% or less. Nearly one-third expect grants budgets to increase. Approximately one-quarter are not sure.