Philanthropy is one of Pennsylvania's most cherished assets. Each day, more and more Pennsylvanians become involved in "organized philanthropy" - making donations through community foundations, establishing independent foundations, or setting up corporate foundations and giving programs. The motivations for establishing a philanthropic fund, foundation or giving program are varied. For most, philanthropy is borne of a desire to make an impact on issues they care about. Families carry out philanthropy to leave a legacy and teach their children about the value and rewards of giving. Corporations practice philanthropy to support their communities, build brand identity and enhance the company's reputation among employees and customers alike. The 1990s were a period of exponential philanthropic growth in Pennsylvania. An unprecedented period of economic prosperity gave rise to the creation of new wealth and new donors. Philanthropy was changed by on- line giving, the creation of charitable gift funds by commercial financial institutions, and the emergence of a venture capital approach to giving known as "venture philanthropy." During the 1990s: The number of Pennsylvania grantmaking foundations increased 77% to 3,005. Giving by Pennsylvania's foundations increased 86% to $1.284 billion. By 1999, Pennsylvania had the third- largest foundation asset base in the U.S. at $28 billion, following behind New York at $82 billion and California at $66 billion. Individual giving - charitable gifts made by individuals and not foundations - remains the greatest source of philanthropic dollars in Pennsylvania as well as the nation. In 1999, Pennsylvania citizens contributed $4.1 billion to nonprofit charities. As priorities, needs and resources change, donors are regularly called upon to increase their charitable contributions. Much can and should be done to encourage the creation and growth of new foundation, corporate and individual giving incentives in Pennsylvania.