Centre Foundation Joins the PA Giving Pledge to Secure Centre County’s Future
State College, PA – January 30, 2025, As philanthropy continues to expand and evolve, it plays a vital role in strengthening communities, filling funding gaps, and supporting programs that enhance our quality of life. In Centre County, a growing movement is laying the financial foundation for key areas such as education, the arts, social services, housing, food security, animal welfare, journalism and environmental initiatives—ensuring a thriving community for years to come.
Centre Foundation is proud to announce its participation in the PA Giving Pledge, a statewide initiative uniting 41 Pennsylvania community foundations to inspire residents to leave at least 5% of their estates to support charitable causes in perpetuity. This effort, spearheaded by the Pennsylvania Community Foundation Association (PACFA), builds upon the national Giving Pledge, launched in 2010 by Warren Buffett and Bill Gates, and adapts it to focus on strengthening local philanthropy.
A Transformational Opportunity for Centre County and Beyond
Pennsylvania households collectively hold over $5 trillion in wealth, with an estimated $418 billion set to transfer from one generation to the next by 2033. If just 5% of this transfer were endowed for charitable purposes, it could generate $21 billion in perpetual funding, providing $1 billion annually to support local nonprofits and community programs in Pennsylvania. In Centre County alone, we expect a wealth transfer of $4.5 billion by 2033. Looking at the potential 5% giving pledge, that would generate $223 million in charitable funds. Think of what this level of legacy giving can do locally for Centre County!
Caring Residents Are at the Heart of Our Community
At Centre Foundation, we understand the deep connection people have with Centre County—a place where families are raised, businesses thrive, and lifelong bonds are formed. A community foundation is more than just a steward of charitable giving; it’s a catalyst for lasting change. By uniting individuals, families, and organizations, we help build a legacy that continues to inspire through permanently invested funds. These gifts are carefully managed to grow over time, providing an enduring source of support for the causes that matter most to donors.
By committing just 5% of their estate to charity, Centre County residents can create a lasting legacy that supports their loved ones and the community for generations to come. If donors do not have a designated cause in mind, Centre Foundation’s deep understanding of the region’s needs allows them to direct resources where they will make the greatest, most sustainable impact. And should a nonprofit’s mission evolve or cease operations, the Foundation ensures that donor funds remain protected and continue to serve the community as originally intended.
How to Take the Pledge
The PA Giving Pledge is a voluntary, non-binding commitment to include charitable giving in estate plans.
Centre Foundation encourages all Centre County residents to explore the interactive website PAGivingPledge.org that offers resources and county-specific data on the projected wealth transfer and charitable giving potential.
A Collective Effort for a Brighter Future
“The PA Giving Pledge is a unique opportunity for Centre County residents to leave a legacy that will improve the quality of life for generations to come,” said Molly Kunkel, President & CEO of Centre Foundation. “By collaborating with other PACFA community foundations, we are amplifying our impact across nearly every county in the commonwealth.”
“This initiative will significantly impact our community,” said Kerry Tolton, Centre Foundation’s Development and Stewardship Director. “If Centre County residents pledge just 5% of their estates, we could generate an estimated $11 million annually to support local nonprofits and causes, according to the Center for Rural Pennsylvania.”
PACFA members are actively engaging business leaders, professional advisors, and philanthropists to endorse the PA Giving Pledge and help build momentum. “We’re thrilled to have Centre Foundation as an advocate for this transformative campaign,” said PACFA President Michael L. Batchelor. “Together, we have the opportunity to create a shared legacy that will benefit Pennsylvanians forever.”
For more information on how to participate in the PA Giving Pledge, visit PAGivingPledge.org, contact Centre Foundation at 814.237.6229, or email Kerry Tolton at Kerry@centrefoundation.org.
