Posted on December 30, 2009

2009: The Year in Review

The year opened with the global economy in crisis, a Wall Street scandal hanging over the world of philanthropy, and a new president — the first African American chief executive in the nation's history — in the White House. By year's end, the economy seemed to be on the mend, the bonus train was steaming ahead for some, and Congress was moving toward passage of an historic healthcare bill that promised to dramatically reduce the ranks of the uninsured. In between, the year had more twists than a novel by Dickens, as the United States began to wind down one war while escalating another; the stock market fell to twelve-year lows, then roared back with startling swiftness; and ordinary Americans struggled to hold on to their homes, their jobs, and their hopes.

As the year comes to a close, the editors of PND look back at some of the important philanthropic stories and personalities of 2009, and look ahead to the start of a new year and decade certain to bring their share of challenges, surprises, and as yet undreamed of opportunities.

2009: Hard-Pressed Nonprofits Wait, Hope for Recovery

2009: Global Health, Healthcare Reform Share Spotlight

2009: Shrunken Endowments, Infusion of Federal Funds Dominate Education Agenda

2009: Philanthropy and the Future of Journalism

2009: White House Pledges Support for Social Innovation, Public-Private Partnerships

2009: Noteworthy Gifts

2009: People in the News

2010: Preview of the Year Ahead