breadth of good causes. In fact, donation rates in the U.S. are two to 20 times higher than in comparable nations. Some of the most significant ventures in our nation comes from privately funded efforts to solve social problems, enrich culture, and strengthen society. Until now, though, there has been no definitive book on America's distinctive philanthropy. This authoritative, highly readable new reference fills that hole. In a single volume, it chronicles the greatest achievements of American private giving, profiles the most influential donors, collects the essential statistics on philanthropy, and summarizes the best ideas on charitable assistance that have been written or spoken. Readers attracted to fascinating history and quirky biographies will enjoy the lively narrative of this meaty new book.

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