Mind your older female donors - they are generous!

A new study has found that women tend to be more charitable than men, according to researchers at the Women’s Philanthropy Institute at Indiana University’s Center on Philanthropy.  Boomer women are especially more generous, donating 89% more than men matched to their income levels, number of children and amount of education.  The wealthiest women donate more than twice the amount of men in similar circumstances: According to the Chronicle of Philanthropy, “For a $100 average gift given by an older affluent man, women of similar age, income level, and other characteristics donate $256 on average, the study found.”

The Center says:

“The findings challenge perceptions about who is philanthropic, revealing that Boomer and older women are as or more philanthropic than their male counterparts. The results add to the growing body of knowledge about the importance of gender in philanthropy, give female donors context for their personal experiences with philanthropy, and prompt nonprofits to seek gender balance in their fundraising strategies. Even though women, in general, earn less than men, have less money in retirement, and outlive their spouses, this study demonstrates that Boomer and older women are more likely to give and give more to charity than men.”

The Center says the findings build on its previous research showing women tend to be more altruistic than men and that their giving frequently is motivated by the desire to make a difference in peoples’ lives.  “Additionally, women’s strong networks may keep them more connected to both the needs of others and to opportunities to give,” according to the researchers.

Boomer women make a big difference.  Pay attention to them!

For more on the effect of gender on giving, check out this post on the five words that make women give 20% more.

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