Giving by community foundations in the U.S rose 10.9 percent in 2005, to $3.2 billion, according to a report from the Foundation Center.

Community-foundation giving rose twice as fast as grantmaking by independent and corporate foundations, and 59 percent of community foundations expect to give more in 2006. Human services and the arts remain high funding priorities for community foundations.

"In recent years, community foundations have experienced robust growth in existing assets and a continued infusion of funds from donors," said report author Josie Atienza. "In uncertain times, they are an especially appealing option for donors. They spare donors from having to be engaged in the day-to-day management of investments, while allowing them to remain involved in grantmaking decisions."

For a free copy of the report, see the Foundation Center website.