In 2017, Americans donated a total of $ 347 billion, a 7.5% increase over 2010. The growth rate of philanthropy outstripped the rate of economic growth. Donations to nonprofit organizations increased by $ 24.2 billion to $ 322.69 billion. Analysts predict donation growth of 3.9% in 2018. “Growth in philanthropy in 2017 was fueled by a robust and strong stock market, an improving economic environment, modest inflation and aggressive nonprofit charities,” said Rob Mitchell, president of Atlas of Giving. (Atlas of Charity). “However, not all non-profit organizations have noted an increase in donations. Organizations that rely on small donations from large donors continued to be negatively impacted by high unemployment. ” … Republican presidential candidate Mitt Romney’s tax return says the politician donated $ 4 million in 2011, including $ 2.6 million for the Mormon Church. Religion in general turned out to be the largest segment of total donations. In 2016, 36% of the total amount was contributed to the needs of religious organizations, while in 2017 — 37%.
