Dear The Giving Institute members,

In the past weeks, our country has not only continued to experience the widespread effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, but now also widespread protests calling for an end to injustice and racism. Our thoughts are with the families of George Floyd in Minneapolis, Breonna Taylor in Louisville, and many others. This is a time for us to listen, have empathy, and then channel that empathy into action on behalf of our clients, firms, and communities.

While all of this has been occurring, we are closing in on the release of the data and trends from Giving USA 2020: The Annual Report on Philanthropy for the Year 2019. Now more than ever, the data in Giving USA 2020 will be crucial for our firms and our clients as they make strategic decisions for the future.

With 65 years of historical data, Giving USA continues to show that giving is a key component of the American way of life. Giving and voluntary action are seldom one-time acts. For many people, they are continual processes of engagement with their community. Giving USA 2020 provides us with the perspective to understand more about ourselves and our giving patterns, which is even more timely and important with the changes that have occurred this year.

Though we are unable to offer our typical in-person education opportunities, there are still many chances for you to connect with fellow members of The Giving Institute and share ideas. In place of this year’s Summer Symposium, we’re offering a series of virtual Board meetings and two educational sessions. You can register for free to join us via Zoom on July 9.

Stay tuned for more information about upcoming programs and be safe.

Sincerely,

Ted Grossnickle
2019-2021 Chair, The Giving Institute
Senior Consultant and Founder, Johnson, Grossnickle & Associates

KEY DATES

Release of Data and Trends from Giving USA 2020
June 16 (Embargo lifts at 8:00am central time)

2020 Online Summer Symposium
July 9