Maine Ranks Sixth Nationally in Volunteering, Lags in Direct Giving

Maine recorded a composite charity score of 60.53 out of 100 in a national assessment of state-level generosity. The index evaluated 17 subcategories across two primary metrics: volunteering and service, and charitable giving. The state’s overall placement was driven by a distinct divergence between these two categories.

Maine ranked sixth in the nation for volunteering and community service. This placed the state above its New England peers. Connecticut held the 16th position, New Hampshire took 20th, Massachusetts landed at 24th, Vermont stood at 27th, and Rhode Island finished at 48th in the regional group.

The state’s financial giving performance was weaker. Maine placed 36th in charitable giving. This ranking fell below the national average for direct monetary donations to nonprofit organizations. The gap between high service participation and lower financial contribution characterized the state's profile in the data.

Utah topped the national list for the most charitable state. New Mexico recorded the lowest score, placing last in the ranking. The national scale ranged from the highest scoring state to the lowest, with Maine’s 60.53 points situating it in the upper tier for service but the middle tier for overall combined impact.

The methodology for the score incorporated specific data points on both volunteer hours and dollar amounts given. The study aimed to capture a comprehensive view of state generosity by separating time-based contributions from money-based ones. This distinction allowed for a clearer view of how residents engage with local and national causes.

The ranking provides a quantitative measure of community engagement in Maine. The sixth-place standing in service indicates a high volume of local participation in nonprofit activities. The 36th-place standing in giving suggests that while Mainers contribute time, their financial donations per capita are lower than those in other states.