Attacks, recession take slight toll on charitable giving. (Philanthropy).

Total charitable giving dropped 2.3 percent in 2001 when adjusted for inflation, the first decline since 1994, yet still managed to hit $212 billion, according to "Giving USA 2002," Published by the American Association of Fundraising Council Trust for Philanthropy, Indianapolis, the annual landmark study linked the decrease to an economic downturn that deepened after the September 11 terrorist attacks.

"Giving in 2001 fits the pattern that we have seen during previous recessions," says Leo R Arnoult, chair of the AAFRC Trust for Philanthropy. "In six of the eight recession years since 1971, giving dropped by 1 to 5 percent when adjusted for inflation. Despite fears last fall that giving might decline precipitously, the change in giving in 2001 falls within the normal range for a recession."

Individuals gave $160.72 billion (75.8 percent of contributions), with bequests accounting for an additional $16.33 billion (7.7 percent of contributions). Corporate charitable contributions totaled $9.05 billion in 2001 (4.3 percent of giving), while noncorporate foundations gave $25.90 billion (12.2 percent).

Major national relief funds received a total of $1.88 billion by the end of 2001 -- slightly less than 1 percent of the total $212 billion in contributions for the year. Individual gifts are estimated at $1.25 billion, corporate gifts at $410 million, and foundation grants at $195 million.

2001 Contributions (in millions)

By Type of Recipient Organization

Religious                         $80.96
Foundations & Unallocated Giving  $25.55
Education                         $31.84
Health                            $18.43
Human Services                    $20.71
Arts. Culture                     $12.14
Environment                        $6.41
Public Society                    $11.82
International Affairs              $4.14

SOURCE: AAFRC Trust for Philanthropy/Giving USA 2002