Erie Community Foundation celebrates 90 years of philanthropy and civic engagement

Philanthropy took center stage at the EFD Special Press Conference on January 22, 2025, as leaders from the Erie Community Foundation highlighted the importance of community engagement and the upcoming 90th anniversary of the foundation. The discussion emphasized the evolving landscape of philanthropy, noting a significant rise in both mega donors and grassroots contributions, particularly through initiatives like Erie Gives, which raised nearly $10 million last year.

The speaker underscored that while tax incentives for charitable giving exist, they are not the primary motivators for individuals to donate. Instead, the love of community and humanity drives many to contribute. This sentiment echoes historical perspectives on philanthropy, dating back to early industrialists like Carnegie and Rockefeller, and even earlier to thinkers like Alexis de Tocqueville, who recognized the vital role of giving in civil society.

A concerning trend was noted: individual giving has decreased over recent years, despite overall charitable contributions reaching an astounding $557 billion in the previous year. The speaker stressed that individual donations typically account for 70-80% of nonprofit funding, making this decline particularly alarming.

Looking ahead, the foundation aims to leverage the impending transfer of wealth from the baby boomer generation, projected to total $3 trillion in Pennsylvania alone. By encouraging individuals to consider leaving a portion of their estates to community causes, the foundation hopes to capture a significant share of this wealth, potentially generating $150 billion for charities over the next 50 years.

The Erie Community Foundation, established in 1935, continues to adapt and grow, with a commitment to fostering partnerships across sectors to drive community change. As they celebrate their 90th anniversary, the foundation is poised to enhance its impact, ensuring that philanthropy remains a cornerstone of Erie’s community fabric.