In this episode of the First Day Podcast, host Bill Stanczykiewicz, Ed.D. is joined by Ben Miller, Senior Vice President of Data Science and Analytics at Bonterra. The duo discuss the latest trends in charitable giving for the first quarter of 2023, providing valuable insights for nonprofit professionals. Miller explains the role of the Fundraising Effectiveness Project, which, in collaboration with AFP and GivingTuesday, analyzes anonymized data from over 20,000 organizations to understand donor behavior. The discussion highlights the project's methodology, focusing on its unique approach to data collection that excludes large medical and educational institutions, thereby offering a more representative analysis of trends in the broader nonprofit sector.

Miller reveals a concerning decline in both the number of donors and the total amount of donations, contextualizing these figures against the significant increases seen during the COVID-19 pandemic and social justice movements of the past years. They discuss long-term trends observed since 2012, which indicate a shift towards fewer donors contributing larger amounts, likely influenced by socio-economic factors and changes in societal engagement. The episode emphasizes the importance of understanding these trends and adapting fundraising strategies accordingly, to ensure inclusive and effective philanthropy across all sectors of society. The podcast concludes by highlighting the need for further research and data analysis to navigate the evolving landscape of charitable giving.