Philanthropy in the United States reached a significant milestone in 2024, with individuals, foundations, and corporations, and bequests contributing an estimated $592.50 billion to charitable causes. That’s according to the recently released Giving USA report, citing a 6.3 percent increase in current dollars from the previous year, or a 3.3 percent increase when adjusted for inflation.

But here’s the real story: individual giving finally beat inflation for the first time in three years. That’s not just good news. That’s a signal.

Philanthropy ALWAYS starts with individuals.

“Philanthropist” is a big word that often conjures up images of the ultra-wealthy making big donations to charities, especially when people like Bill Gates have been in the headlines lately. But the definition is much broader than that. Merriam-Webster defines “philanthropist” as “one who makes an active effort to promote human welfare.”

Anyone can be a philanthropist. That’s certainly the spirit behind the Community Foundation of North Central Florida’s mission to improve the quality of life in our region.

People get started in philanthropy in many ways. Here are just a few:

• Personal experience with a charity, such as attending a performance at a local theater, receiving health care services, or participating in afterschool programs

· Volunteering for a charity, such as packing backpacks for school kids, serving food at a shelter, or mentoring a youth

· Attending community events

· Donating canned goods for a food drive

· Purchasing products that support a cause or school fundraiser

· Serving in a leadership role, such as on a fundraising committee or a charity’s board of directors

From there, many people take the next step to get even more involved by providing financial support, including:

· Making a donation online to support disaster relief

· Rounding up at check out

· Responding to online or direct mail fundraisers with a credit card donation or check

· Donating to a giving circle or other fund at the Community Foundation

Along the journey, the Community Foundation team is here as a resource to match donors with causes and needs. Many people decide to establish a fund at the Foundation after several years of informal giving. A donor-advised fund can be a great tool to organize giving to multiple charities and streamline tax reporting.

For inspiration, consider the recently-released TIME100 Philanthropy 2025 which highlights a diverse array of individuals making a difference—from billionaires like Warren Buffett and MacKenzie Scott to community leaders, activists, and innovators who leverage their unique skills, platforms, and resources to drive change. This broad representation demonstrates that

impactful giving is not limited to those with vast fortunes; anyone can contribute meaningfully, whether through money, time, expertise, or advocacy.

Indeed, many on the list are recognized for aligning their philanthropic efforts with personal passions or areas where they can make a unique impact, such as Dolly Parton’s focus on literacy, José Andrés’ humanitarian food relief, and Billie Jean King’s advocacy for women in sports. What’s more, the rise of collective giving, strategic philanthropy, and new collaborative funding models make it easier for people to pool resources and maximize impact.

The growth in charitable giving in 2024 reflects more than economic strength for the year. It’s a testament to the values and priorities of people across the country who continue to invest in solutions and positive change.

For 2024, the Community Foundation experienced record-setting philanthropy with more than $9.4 million in contributions by individuals, foundations, and bequests, and more than $5.6 million in grants back to the community. From mental health services for youth to the promotion of local arts and cultural organizations, the Foundation is committed to filling the needs of the community.

Please reach out anytime, wherever you are along your philanthropic journey. The Foundation is here to help everyone make a difference at every level of wealth and background. To learn more, please visit www.cfncf.org.

Barzella Papa has served as the President and CEO of the Community Foundation of North Central Florida for 19 years. During her tenure, she has raised more than $100 million in support of local efforts. She holds a Chartered Advisor in Philanthropy and a Certified Fund Raising Executive designation.

Editor’s note: This is the latest in a series of philanthropy columns sponsored by Community Foundation of North Central Florida.