NEW YORK (AP) — The season for giving appears to be faltering for many Americans as a new AP-NORC poll suggests that most are not planning to engage in charitable contributions prior to year-end, despite the numerous appeals from nonprofits.
Conducted in early December, the survey from The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research indicates that approximately half of U.S. adults report having already made their charitable donations for 2025. Only 18% confirmed they’ve donated and will do so again before the year concludes, while a mere 6% indicated they haven't given yet but plan to by the end of December. The remaining 30%, however, have not donated and don't intend to.
In a year filled with competing demands, everyday givers confront the financial constraints imposed by the economic climate, exacerbated by inflation and stagnant income growth. Significant events, such as President Donald Trump’s cuts to social services and foreign aid rollbacks, alongside disasters like the destructive wildfires in Los Angeles, have left many potential donors overwhelmed and uncertain. Despite tax incentives encouraging charitable giving, not all individuals were able to respond positively.
Dianne Chipps Bailey from Bank of America's Philanthropic Solutions emphasized the urgency that December holds for many, with estimates showing that nearly one-third of annual donations typically occur in this final month.
Moreover, GivingTuesday, a day created to encourage generosity and now a staple for fundraising efforts, yielded disappointing participation this past year; under half of surveyed individuals reported making purchases on Black Friday compared to those who donated on GivingTuesday.
One contributing factor to the decline in donations outlined by respondents is the financial strain many families experience. Some like Oakley Graham noted that increasing costs have tightened budgets, making it challenging to donate. Alternatives like donating at the checkout counter remain more popular, indicating a shift in how Americans are approaching charitable giving.
Chuck Dietrick, a donor from Texas, exemplifies a continued commitment to giving, planning to make substantial contributions to various organizations. Individuals vary in their donation strategies, with many opting to support a broader array of causes rather than focusing on singular large contributions.
Despite the federal funding cuts potentially impacting donor choices, most contributors reported that their amount given remained stable. The survey reveals that while economic pressures are palpable, many Americans still seek ways to contribute to communities in need.
Overall, this year-end assessment of charitable giving highlights a distinct trend: as economic challenges intensify, the landscape of philanthropy is shifting, necessitating a reevaluation of how individuals engage with charitable institutions.
