Study findings show the largest percentages of giving for the region as a whole for specific societal causes were made in the areas of Education (35.4%), Human Services (16.4%), Public/Societal Benefit (15.8%), and Health (11.1%).

Arkansas had by far the highest percentage (60.6%) of gifts made in support of Education, with the other six states ranging from nearly 17% (Nevada) to nearly 39% (Colorado).

While assets increased for more than half of the foundations in the state (53%), the assets of the foundations that did decrease were significant enough to sway the trend for the state as a whole.

Smaller percentages of giving for the region were made in the areas of International Affairs (2.4%), Environment and Animals (4.6%), Religion (5.1%), and the Arts (9.1%). Of the seven states, New Mexico devoted the highest percentage of giving to the Arts (24.7%), with the other six states ranging from nearly 3.75 (Arkansas) to 12.9% (Nevada).