According to a recent study by the Fraser Institute, an independent public policy organization, Manitobans are very generous. In 2002, Manitoba ranked first among Canadian provinces and territories when it comes to the greatest percentage of taxfilers who made donations to charity. Manitobans also donated the greatest per cent of their income to charity. This is the fourth year in a row that Manitoba has received the first rank in these categories. Manitobans are also generous when it comes to giving their time to causes. According to the National Survey of Giving, Volunteering and Participating, Manitoba volunteers contributed an average of 140 hours each to charitable causes in 2000. That totals 43.7 million hours – the equivalent of almost 23,000 full-time jobs. The giving spirit of Manitobans has a big impact on the work done by local non-profit organizations. The Winnipeg Foundation is proud to play a role in Winnipeg’s vibrant charitable sector and we thank all those who contribute – whether through monetary donations, volunteer time or other support. As we enter a new year, we encourage all Manitobans to consider making a contribution of any kind to a cause they care about in 2004.

Manitoba has philanthropic spirit