Generosity, Philanthropic Potential Of Broward County Focus Of New Study

A new study produced for the Community Foundation of Broward examines charitable giving patterns in Broward County, Fla., and reveals opportunities to nurture a more vibrant culture of local philanthropy. Unlocking Opportunities: Shaping the Future of Charitable Giving in Broward County, conducted by the Indiana University Lilly Family School of Philanthropy, looks at the generosity and untapped philanthropic potential of the county. This deep dive into local giving blends data insights with perspectives from the community garnered through interviews with residents to offer recommendations for elevating philanthropy in Broward County. “This insightful report about Broward County’s giving potential shows that our community can create an even greater charitable impact if nonprofits grow and evolve their outreach and collaboration with those who want to support the community they love,” said Community Foundation of Broward President/CEO Jennifer O’Flannery Anderson, Ph.D. “Giving can be done in small and large ways. We have to foster that propensity to give.”

Key findings included:

1.
Giving in Broward County remains lower than in similar-sized communities.
2.
Opportunities to expand philanthropy in Broward County require long-term commitment from local nonprofits
3.
Identity plays an important role in how and where Broward County households give.
4.
Donors find fulfillment through broader forms of generosity, including volunteering at events, serving on boards, and leveraging their personal and professional connections to expand the nonprofit’s reach.
5.
Individual trust levels in nonprofits are generally high, with some exceptions.
6.
Interest in donor-advised funds (DAFs) and other newer strategic giving vehicles is growing,especially among diverse donors.

While many of the report’s findings are unique to the Broward County community, it also includes recommendations for non-profit leaders, funders and donors elsewhere seeking to strengthen connections within their communities, including:

1.
Build a culture of giving.
2.
Build bridges to meet next-gen and diverse donors where they are and create opportunities for engagement.
3.
Find or create giving opportunities that are fun.

“Philanthropy is deeply personal, shaped by individual experiences, traditions and connections. Identifying key themes and practices that resonate with residents of Broward County and beyond equips organizations and donors with insights to deepen their philanthropic connections,” said Una Osili, Ph.D., Associate Dean for Research and International Programs at the Lilly Family School of Philanthropy. “We are pleased to collaborate with the Community Foundation of Broward to help advance that goal.”Founded in 1984, the Community Foundation of Broward partners with families, individuals and organizations to create personalized charitable funds that deliver game-changing philanthropic impact. 571 charitable funds represent $300 million in assets, distributing more than $195 million in grants over the past 40 years.