Americans have a unique commitment to philanthropy. Our culture emphasizes giving, and our citizens respond: Some 83% of all charitable donations in the U.S. come from individuals, according to Giving USA Foundation. In 2007 (the latest year for which figures are available) that meant 83% of more than $306 billion.rnNow, amid the widespread destruction of wealth that has accompanied the current economic crisis-and with more economic challenges to come-it's more important than ever to support education, health care, art, culture, and efforts to alleviate poverty. Together they provide a vital outlet for those looking to make a difference in someone else's life. They also help create the sort of society we all want to live in: one with healthy, schooled citizens and workers.
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