Bad Economy Good for Charities?

A new study says Americans will spend less this holiday season, but will also be more generous and look for meaningful gifts that help the poor.

I know that the usual holiday gift card exchange among our extended family has given way to contributing toward a more worthy cause. Looks like we’re part of a growing trend. Here’s a news release from World Vision:

SEATTLE– The weakening U.S. economy will force many adults to cut back on gift spending this year, but will also make some more likely to give a "charitable gift" as a present this holiday season, according to a World Vision survey just conducted by Harris Interactive. The study also finds that only 36 percent of U.S. adults feel they need something for the holidays this year.

"These results underscore our altruistic American culture of giving back," says Justin Greeves, Harris Interactive Senior Vice President of Public Affairs and Policy Research.
"This study, and a recent study by The Center on Philanthropy at Indiana University, both show why total charitable giving has increased in 39 of the last 40 years--even during times of recession," says Greeves. “The findings are a reflection of our uniquely American values system of helping others in need, which, in turn, makes us, as givers feel good. This generosity may surprise some but shows why it truly 'Tis better to give than to receive.'"