Defying the Decline: Community Connections Keep Generosity Alive
February 25, 2025
 | By Chad Dull, Chief Executive Officer |
The power of community connections
A recent article from Vox asks a big question: Are Americans becoming less generous? The article looks at a new report from the Generosity Commission, revealing that charitable giving in the U.S. has dropped to its lowest level in decades, with fewer households donating to nonprofits. Volunteering rates are also down, reflecting growing economic pressures, shifting priorities, and declining community engagement.
The Generosity Commission, an organization working to protect and promote the future of generosity, warns that this trend could have lasting impacts on social services, education, and community well-being, making efforts to encourage giving more important than ever.
Generosity depends on community connections
The decline affects local communities, including La Crosse County. A drop in giving could mean fewer resources for important programs, less support for people in need, and fewer opportunities to unite the community. It could affect everything from food pantries to youth programs, making it harder for La Crosse County to thrive. Social capital — the connections and trust between people that help communities thrive — depends on people giving their time, money, and support. When fewer people get involved, our connections weaken, and the breakdown hurts the community.
But La Crosse County is fortunate to have many local groups working hard to build social capital. Through its donors, La Crosse Area Community Foundation has given nearly $90 million in grants and scholarships since 1930, helping local causes and people in need. And Coulee Region RSVP, Big Brothers Big Sisters, Rotary Clubs, and several other local organizations provide many chances for people to volunteer and support those who need help the most.
Helping connections thrive
So, how can we keep generosity alive in La Crosse County?
- Engage with local nonprofits. Participating in organizations such as Causeway Interfaith Volunteer Caregivers, which connects volunteers with elderly individuals and adults with disabilities, can make a tangible difference in the community.
- Promote a culture of giving. Encouraging discussions about philanthropy’s personal and communal benefits can inspire others to contribute their time and resources. Highlighting stories of local generosity can serve as powerful motivators.
- Educate younger generations. Instilling empathy and civic responsibility in children can have a lasting impact. Engaging them in volunteer activities and teaching them about the importance of giving can foster a lifelong commitment to community service.
- Connect through third places and community events. Third places like coffee shops, libraries, and parks give people a chance to meet, build relationships, and share ideas. These connections can inspire more generosity, as people are more likely to give when they feel connected to others.
By volunteering, donating, and supporting local organizations, we can build stronger connections in La Crosse County — becoming a community where everyone is supported, feels connected, prospers, and enjoys a better quality of life.