Short summary:
This research investigates the distinct philanthropic behaviors of the LGBTQ+ community in Ireland, revealing that while queer individuals donate less money on average, they exhibit higher “charitable intensity” through significantly increased rates of volunteering and campaigning.
Full description:
This research investigates the distinct philanthropic landscape of the LGBTQ+ community in Ireland, addressing a critical data gap where national datasets often overlook sexuality. Utilizing a harmonised sample of 1,198 respondents, the study explores who supports LGBTQ+ charities and how their pro-social preferences differ from the general population.
A central finding is the “Participation vs. Intensity” trade-off. While LGBTQ+ individuals show lower rates of monetary donation (63% vs 71%), they demonstrate significantly higher “Charitable Intensity”, a measure of multi-modal support across various sectors. Queer respondents are vastly more likely to engage in non-monetary giving, with a +23.5pp gap in volunteering and a +20.5pp gap in campaigning/advocacy compared to straight counterparts.
Econometrically, the research uses OLS regression to show that the “Queer Giving Gap” is not a product of identity, but of different value weightings. Once internal values, specifically Inequity Aversion (Fairness) and Reciprocity, are controlled for, the statistical significance of LGBTQ+ identity disappears. This suggests that the community’s high engagement is driven by a structural desire to build a fairer society rather than traditional moral or financial incentives, which scored the lowest among motivators. These insights offer a new framework for institutions to increase engagement by aligning missions with social justice and equity.
Main takeaway/Key learning point:
Antonio Vega