Yvonne Maher

In this economically challenging environment, The Pittsburgh Foundation is proud to report that our community continues to give generously to support others whose need is even greater in these times.  As our forecasters around the country predicted doom and gloom for charitable giving, we were humbled by the kindness of our donors who continued to grow their endowments so that charities would have a stream of funding now and in the future.

In November 2009, 28 new funds had been established and expectations were that we would finish the year between 40 and 45.  Deferred funds were tracking ahead. 

However, what happened in a four-week window was unprecedented.  The Pittsburgh community rallied at the end of the year and a flurry of activity was seen in the Development and Donor Services department.  By year end, we were proud to report that:

• Against a target of 53 new funds…53 were established.
• Against a target of 40 deferred funds, donors established 41;

In terms of dollars, the Foundation closed the year at $26,661,908, which is a 13% increase over the prior year.  This number included several significant legacy gifts including a $10 million bequest from Quentin and Evelyn Cunningham.

It is clear that the philanthropists who make up The Pittsburgh Foundation care deeply about the needs in our community.  We thank all of our donors for their trust and dedication to the nonprofit community and for continuing to grow their funds and establish new funds at The Pittsburgh Foundation.

We look forward to a robust 2010.