USA Today: 'Sharing in the USA'

Decent insert devoted to charitable giving in today's USA Today. Articles and features include:

"The New Face of Giving" -- Looks at giving trends -- online giving, micro-donations, proliferation of platforms, growing popularity of environmental and international causes -- and concludes that the most successful way to raise money is still "in person — one person asking another person."

"Uncertainty Is the Enemy of Philanthropy" -- Brief look at how volatile markets and the slowing economy are affecting fundraising.

"Giving by the Numbers" -- Avg. household contributions by state, 2004; 10 largest gifts by individuals (2007); total individual giving, 1967-2007 (source: Giving USA Foundation, Center on Philanthropy at Indiana University).

"Poll: Donors Feel Fiscal Squeeze" -- Results of a survey of 994 adults conducted Sept. 22-23.

"Natalie Portman Is a Force for Change, Empowering Women" -- Profile of the young Star Wars actress and her work on behalf of FINCA International (the Foundation for International Community Assistance); includes sidebar of celebrities (Lucy Liu, Wyclef Jean, Jenny Jones, Greg Grunberg) active in charitable causes.

"Waiting on the Sidelines to Picth In" -- Sports philanthropy through the eyes of the athletes; includes sidebar of athletes (Warrick Dunn, Kyle Petty, Lolo Jones, Tiger Woods) active in charitable causes.

"Donating Your Money Do's and Dont's" -- Advice for donors from experts in the field.

"How to Do Good and Get Tax Credit" -- Tax advice.

"Street Angel" -- Photo essay about Clemmie Greenlee, a 49-year-old Nashville residents who advocates for the homeless, the addicted, and the mentally ill.

Nothing terribly new here, but as Art Taylor, president and CEO of the BBB Wise Giving Alliance, reminds us, in tough economic times it is imperative that charities and nonprofits get out there and tell their stories.

-- Mitch Nauffts