Inside Philanthropy: The Heat is On: Tamper with the charitable ...

Special to Philanthropy Journal

Rev. Larry Snyder

Nonprofit organizations that depend on the generosity of donors are currently facing an urgent threat as Congress considers proposals that will upend the charitable tax deduction.

The Senate Finance and House Ways and Means committees have presented tax reform options to modify the charitable deduction as they consider overhauling America?s tax system. The Charitable Giving Coalition, a group of more than 60 diverse nonprofits, foundations and other charitable organizations serving communities across the nation, is working to ensure there is a clear understanding of how tampering with the charitable deduction could impact giving and hurt those who need help the most.

Consider the millions who depend on a network of highly effective, compassionate organizations across the country that provide jobs, economic development, food, shelter and more.

For instance, on an annual basis, Catholic Charities USA?s network of local agencies across the country raises more than $679 million of contributed income.? In fact, many rely on individual donors for more than half of their contributed income to provide funding to: ????? ? Meet the needs of the more than 10 million people that come to their doors for help and hope, regardless of race or religious background.
????? ? Employ nearly 66,000 and engage more than 311,000 volunteers annually.
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