What can secular philanthropy learn from faith-inspired funders? David P. King and Neill Coleman explore how values rooted in faith shape a deeply relational and human-centered approach to giving, offering lessons that transcend traditional boundaries. From mapping the unique characteristics of faith-based organizations to examining the distinctive "why," "what," and "how" of faith-inspired philanthropy, this issue highlights the power of generosity guided by spiritual discernment and human connection.

At the recent Lake Institute Network of Emerging Scholars (LINES) gathering, 17 scholars, including 11 in the early stages of their careers, came together to explore the intersections of faith and philanthropy. Discover how emerging scholars such as Dr. Shaunesse’ Jacobs Plaisimond, Dr. Megan Pontes, and Dr. Adina Bankier-Karp expanded their research agendas, paving the way for innovative contributions to the evolving field of faith and giving, reflecting Dr. Allison Youatt Schnable's emphasis on the importance of coherent conversations among diverse researchers.

Perspectives from Latinx/Hispanic Leaders on Building Giving Cultures in Faith Communities

Elizabeth Lynn reflects on a crucial report from The Generosity Commission, examining recent declines in American generosity and providing valuable insights on how we can address these challenges. Her article highlights the report's findings and recommendations, urging us to engage in meaningful discussions and actions to support and rejuvenate the spirit of giving and volunteering in our communities.

This landscape analysis of the American generosity ecosystem summarizes what we currently know about the decline in giving and volunteering rates, with a particular focus on the “dollars up, donors down” (or “volunteer hours up, number of volunteers down”) dynamic and how it was manifested during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Giving USA 2024 reports that giving to religion has not yet returned to pre-pandemic levels.

Newest Giving in Faith report uncovers insights in faith-based generosity: Four key insights on faith and giving

Salwa Tareen writes about the legacy of humanitarian, Abdul Sattar Edhi, and the rise of dissident care.

Andrew Whitehead offers a way for congregational leaders to leverage free online data resources to discover their community and what they need.

Jennifer Watley Maxell shares what she hears from Black ministry leaders about how they think of and relate to philanthropy.