What does this measure?

Contributions to charitable organizations, measured as an average per tax return with itemized contributions.

Why is this important?

Charitable giving supports a variety of organizations, including those that provide essential services to the community and people in need. The level of giving shows residents' willingness to invest in programs and organizations serving the community.

How is our county performing?

In 2016, the average charitable contribution in Berks County was $3,911, less than the average for Pennsylvania ($5,149) and the U.S. ($6,349). Since 2011, the average contribution in Berks County rose 18% in real terms, similar to the state but less than the national (28%) levels.

The average charitable contribution in 2016 was higher than Berks in Chester ($5,660), Lancaster ($6,818), Lebanon ($5,265) and Montgomery ($7,445) counties. The average contribution was similar in Lehigh ($4,105) and Schuylkill ($3,450). Since 2011, Berks' average contribution rose less than some of the surrounding counties, which had increases ranging from 18% in Schuylkill to 28% in Montgomery.

Notes about the data

Figures are in constant 2017 dollars. These figures reflect contributions listed on tax returns with itemized deductions, which researchers estimate cover about 80% of all charitable giving nationally. High-income taxpayers are much more likely to file tax returns with itemized deductions than those with lower incomes. No county or state data are available on charitable contributions by taxpayers who take the standard deduction.

There may be additional research available on this topic. Click on Reports and Resources to learn more.