A Foundation of Giving :
Philanthropy in West Virginia
In 2019 , American families , foundations and corporations gave an estimated $ 449.64 billion to U . S . charities , one of the highest years on record for charitable giving according to Giving USA ’ s annual report . In West Virginia , a state known for its kind , generous and selfless people who often come together to meet the needs of their communities in times of trial , these acts of charity hardly seem surprising .
With the potential for a more than $ 30 billion transfer of wealth on the horizon over the next 10 years in the Mountain State , the staff at West Virginia Executive
( WVE ) began to consider the significance of philanthropy in local communities .
While the COVID-19 pandemic and the resulting economic turmoil certainly took its toll , the Mountain State ’ s strong network of foundations , nonprofits and philanthropic businesses still managed to make sizable donations to those in need in 2020 . This commitment to others coupled with the possible transfer of wealth could revolutionize communities , driving economic development , entrepreneurship , education , arts and more .
In an effort to highlight the countless philanthropic projects going on in West
Virginia , WVE created A Foundation of Giving : Philanthropy in West Virginia , a special advertising section for the state ’ s community , hospital , education and corporate foundations , as well as other nonprofits and organizations supporting Mountain State communities , to highlight their special projects , partnerships , developments and growth opportunities . The organizations featured in this section are enhancing quality of life for West Virginians , from health care and employment services to education and child advocacy . •
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