Giving back: Eight innovative philanthropists around the world

The global face of philanthropy is changing. Donors no longer just open their wallets. They're actively involved in causes, use savvy business practices, and leverage what they give to achieve more good. Meet eight innovators.

A Peace Corps for geeks? Nonprofit donates apps to cities.

Code for America has developed apps that have trimmed Boston's costs for digging out fire hydrants after snow and made Philadelphia city services more accessible. The 'Peace Corps for geeks' is the leading edge of nonprofits looking to make government more efficient.

A political chill for charities?

A new Congress could cut tax deductions and funds for charities. States are also starting to clamp down on compensation for executives of charities.

Cover Story Gratitude: a healthy recipe for Thanksgiving

Gratitude is an ethic that experts now see as equally secular and religious – not to mention a healthy recipe for Thanksgiving all year round.

Charity 2.0? Silicon Valley reinvents philanthropy.

Silicon Valley entrepreneurs bring a fresh eye to social problems. In some cases, their innovative solutions are changing the way charity is delivered.  

How to kick-start gratitude – on Thanksgiving and year round

A Thanksgiving kick-start for gratitude: Four suggestions.

The top 50 US charities for 2011

Ranked by total income, here are the 50 largest charities in the US this year.

Japan tsunami: Here's how you can help

Nations are responding to the devastation in Japan, sending aid workers, rescue equipment, and humanitarian supplies. Individuals can help too by donating to legitimate charities.

Tough year ahead for charities

While many firms are emerging from recession, nonprofits say 2011 could be worse than 2010.

How to check out a charity

With so many non-profits soliciting contributions, how can you pick one to support? Try these resources.

Can Warren Buffett and Bill Gates save the world?

How the Giving Pledge, Bill Gates and Warren Buffett's quest to get billionaires to donate half their wealth to charity, will impact philanthropy and the world's needy.

The 50 largest US charities in 2010

Why the rich give money to charity

Some do it for tax breaks and public recognition. But happiness, rather than self-interest, is a prime motive.

The 50 largest US charities in 2009

'Tis the season for grace and charity, even in a Grinch economy

From Palm Desert, Calif., to Boise, Idaho, people go to extra lengths to help the needy this holiday season. 'The harder things get, people are more generous,' says one charity organizer.

'Tis the season for grace and charity, even in a Grinch economy

From Palm Desert, Calif., to Boise, Idaho, people go to extra lengths to help the needy this holiday season. 'The harder things get, people are more generous,' says one charity organizer.

No quick recovery for charitable giving

The Great Recession has hurt charitable giving — and may keep on doing so for some time

ECONOMIC SCENE: No quick recovery for charitable giving

The Great Recession has hurt charitable giving — and may keep on doing so for some time

Holiday giving: How to choose a charity

New tools help givers, and those in need, find answers.

Holiday giving: How to choose a charity

New tools help givers, and those in need, find answers.