Charlize Theron Advocates for Philanthropy and Gender Equity at Town & Country Summit Amid Decline in Middle Class Giving

Theron highlights importance of grassroots initiatives, addressing gender inequality in philanthropy, as studies reveal decline in donations from the middle class and heightened giving among the affluent.

• Charlize Theron emphasized the significance of philanthropy at the Town & Country Philanthropy Summit, drawing attention to her own efforts with the Charlize Theron Africa Outreach Project, which funds community leaders tackling the AIDS epidemic and gender equity issues in South Africa.
• Stellene Volandes, Town & Country's editor in chief, underlined the importance of every individual asking 'What can I do?' when it comes to philanthropy, stating that having the belief in one’s ability to contribute promotes hope and engagement.
• Ford Foundation President Darren Walker urged attendees to go beyond generosity and address economic injustice—an increasing issue amid rising inequality that has led to fewer middle-class donors.
• Research indicated a decline in total giving by 3.4% to $499.3 billion in 2022, a decrease of 10.5% when adjusted for inflation. The reduction in the number of Americans who donate is particularly concerning for nonprofits; only less than half of Americans donated in 2022, compared to over two-thirds in 2000.
• Despite the overall decrease in charitable contributions, affluent households gave 19% more in 2022 than before the pandemic. This segment is also where women are more likely to volunteer and influence decisions about giving, although they are less likely to serve on governing boards of nonprofits.

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