Tell the billionaires where to give
August 19, 2010: 4:42 PM ET
As you've probably heard, billions of dollars will be flowing into charitable organizations worldwide in the coming years, thanks to the Giving Pledge, a project spearheaded by Warren Buffett and Bill and Melinda Gates.
Thus far, about 40 U.S. billionaires have agreed to give away at least 50% of their wealth, according to the Giving Pledge. And while the Giving Pledge hasn't released a tally, Forbes.com estimates that America's wealthiest will give away an additional $120 billion or more in the years to come.
Considering that the total charitable giving in the U.S. has been hovering at about $300 billion per year for the last few years, according to the Giving USA Foundation, the amount pledged represents an astounding increase. While many billionaires will continue to give to causes they hold dear, perhaps some will be open to suggestions.
