What does this measure?

Contributions to charitable organizations, measured as an average per tax return with itemized contributions.

Why is this important?

Charitable giving supports a wide variety of organizations, including those that provide essential services to the community and people in need. The level of giving shows residents' willingness to invest in programs and organizations serving the community.

How is our region performing?

In 2006, the average charitable contribution in the region was nearly $3,100 compared to about $4,400 in the nation and $5,000 in the state. That was down from about $3,300 in 2004 and 2005 and about the same as the level of giving in 2000. Giving at the state and national level also fell from 2005 but remained higher than 2000 numbers. Average contributions are consistently higher in Monroe than in the surrounding counties.

Notes about the data

Total contributions and average contributions were inflated to 2009 dollars. Data were not available for every year. Contributions only include those listed on tax returns that itemize deductions, so contributions from people who do not itemize deductions are not included. However, experts believe this captures 85% to 90% of all giving.