Giving Is Back: Insights from the 2025 Giving USA Report with Wendy McGrady

The numbers don’t lie - 2024 was a record-breaking year for charitable giving. But are you actually feeling it this year? And what does it mean for 2026?

I talk with Wendy McGrady, President and COO of The Curtis Group, and Chair of Giving USA Foundation, to break down insights from the newly released Giving USA 2025 Annual Report. With giving up 6.3% and outpacing inflation for the first time in three years, fundraisers have reason to be optimistic — but also strategic.

We unpack what’s really behind the numbers, how donor behavior is evolving post-pandemic, and how nonprofit marketers can turn these insights into better messaging, stronger relationships, and more sustainable funding.

🎧 In This Episode, We Discuss:

• The economic tailwinds that fueled the recent giving surge
• Changing donor behavior and emerging giving patterns
• How to message hope and legacy in a divided, uncertain time
• Ways to adapt to federal funding cuts through stronger philanthropy
• Why now is the moment to deepen — not just diversify — donor engagement

🧰 Resources & Links:

• Full Report: Giving USA 2025
• Learn more about Wendy: Wendy McGrady – Giving USA

🪷🪷 This episode sponsored by Bloomerang! 🪷🪷

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