Emergent Philanthropists: America's Evolving Ethnic Donor Groups

The face of America’s philanthropist is changing. Nonprofit leaders who want to engage a fuller representation of their communities must begin to recognize and invite involvement from these emerging philanthropic ethnic groups. It’s well-known that people respond to people who are similar in look, economic status and values to themselves. Take time to assess the makeup of your leadership and staff; determine if your donor base would benefit from greater involvement with these generous donors; review the visual components of your organizational communications to find out if they represent your community’s changing demographics; and above all, be flexible and welcoming in your fundraising efforts. Be the changing force behind your organization’s open invitation to a new group of affluent emerging philanthropists.

Statistics have been collected from leading sources including GivingUSA Foundation, The Center on Philanthropy at Indiana University and the 2008 Mendelsohn Affluent Survey.

Katherine Swank is a consultant with Target Analytics, a Blackbaud company.