Accordihng to the Charlotte Observer, “The Foundation for the Carolinas plans to announce Thursday at its annual meeting that local donors set aside a record $627 million for charity in 2014, double the amount given the previous year.”
“As a result, the foundation now manages $1.7 billion in charitable assets, making it the ninth biggest among the nation’s 800 community foundations, officials said.”
“However, it ranks higher – at No. 3 – based on the money it gave out: 11,200 grants totaling $316 million, for causes ranging from veterans job training to helping unaccompanied immigrant children get legal aid in Charlotte’s immigration court.”
“Only community foundations in Silicon Valley ($469 million) and Kansas City ($323 million) awarded more money in 2014, according to a survey by Foundation for the Carolinas.”
“Foundation for the Carolinas President Michael Marsicano credits the foundation’s third straight record year to the improved economy and Charlotte’s “spirit of generosity.” That spirit prompted families, nonprofits and companies to create 400 new charitable funds in 2014 at the foundation, he said.”
“Created in 1958, the foundation’s chief mission has been to help connect philanthropists to community causes, a job that typically involves managing and investing the millions of dollars set aside by donors for future grants.”