PHILANTHROPY: Over the Top

In 1959 prosperous Americans evidently believed that U.S. health, education and welfare were too important to be left to “George”—in Washington or anywhere else. They put up $7.8 billion for philanthropic purposes—up $700 million from 1958, volunteered 45 million strong in support of their pet charities. A dazzling $6.1 billion came out of individual pockets, reported the American Association of Fund-Raising Counsel, Inc. Corporations gave $526 million; foundations made grants of $700 million. Chief beneficiaries of the outpouring: churches (50% of total gifts), higher education (15%) and health agencies (14%).