The culture of giving in Delaware

Philanthropy in Delaware is at a pivotal moment. Our state is home to hundreds of nonprofits tackling critical issues, such as feeding hungry children when school is out, providing substance abuse treatment and supporting vulnerable populations, including veterans, the homeless, the elderly or victims of domestic violence. Nonprofits are the backbone of our communities, and individual generosity sustains their vital work. Delawareans need to come together as often as they can to support causes that matter in these communities, creating a ripple effect of generosity throughout the year.

Spur Impact, a Delaware-based nonprofit, is committed to strengthening the state’s philanthropic landscape by developing the next generation of leaders dedicated to supporting their communities. Every March, Spur Impact and United Way of Delaware join forces to host Do More 24 Delaware, the state’s largest day of giving. The event, a cornerstone in changing the culture of philanthropy and individual giving in Delaware, helps connect nonprofits with donors to strengthen Delaware communities. In 2024, donations increased 11%, with effectively 4.5% of Delaware households participating. On March 6-7, Delawareans will once again rally to support more than 500 nonprofits raising money as part of this impactful 24-hour fundraising marathon. Funds raised through the giving day event will enable these nonprofits to expand their programs, plan more effectively, and serve more people in need.

Success stories from Do More 24 Delaware illustrate its transformative impact. Southern Delaware Orchestra grew its donations from $7,400 in 2023 to $22,000 in 2024 by leveraging event resources, engaging in peer-to-peer fundraising and securing a board-driven matching gift. As a result, they have doubled the size of their orchestra. The Selbyville Public Library saw its fundraising soar from $6,500 to $57,000 over multiple years of participation, demonstrating the event's long-term benefits for nonprofits statewide.

Delaware’s philanthropic spirit is surging. In just six years, the state has climbed from 48th to 16th nationally when it comes to individual giving, according to WalletHub’s annual nationwide analysis. This leap reflects the generosity of Delawareans as well as the success of collaborative initiatives like Do More 24 Delaware.

The future of philanthropy in Delaware depends on all of us. Supporting nonprofits – through donations, volunteering, or spreading the word – strengthens our community and ensures these nonprofits can continue their vital work. Days like Do More 24 Delaware and Giving Tuesday make giving easy, fun and engaging, and transform individual acts of kindness into collective movements that inspire year-round support.

Mark your calendars for Do More 24 Delaware, March 6-7, and be part of something bigger than yourself. Whether you donate to a cause close to your heart, attend a nonprofit event or encourage friends to get involved, every action helps spur impact. Let’s build a legacy of giving that reflects the best of Delaware – now and for generations to come.