Cape Girardeau ranks as third-most generous town in Missouri

The city of Cape Girardeau ranks as Missouri's third-most generous town, according to a study by Philanthropy.com.

That's great news to Ward 6 Councilman Wayne Bowen, who celebrated the ranking with a post on his Facebook page on Wednesday.

"There is a civic-mindedness in Cape Girardeau," Bowen said, adding he is gratified to see the community recognized for its giving spirit.

The study ranked cities by the percentage of residents' income that was donated to charities in 2012. The study found Cape Girardeau residents donated $44 million to charity, a 3.77 percent giving ratio.

Springfield ranked second with total contributions of $223 million, a 4.34 percent ratio.

Joplin ranked as the most generous Missouri city, with total contributions of $77 million, a 4.73 percent giving ratio. Bowen said some of that giving spirit in Joplin likely occurred in response to the devastating tornado that struck the community in 2011.

As for Cape Girardeau, Bowen said Southeast Missouri State University, the two hospitals, the local United Way and the Salvation Army "generate a lot of giving."

Bowen said the local community is "vibrant, active and growing." The councilman added residents have a "remarkable" spirit of charity.

Elizabeth Shelton, executive director of the United Way of Southeast Missouri, wasn't surprised by the community's high ranking.

"I know we have a very generous community," she said.

She said fundraising activities are popular in Cape Girardeau.

"A lot of social activities revolve around fundraising," Shelton said.

The number of charitable groups also has grown over the years, she said.

"More people are trying to do good for more people and organizations," Shelton said.

As a result, there is more competition for those charitable dollars, she said.

The United Way continues to appeal to donors, she said. The organization has raised more than $1 million several times in previous campaigns. In the last campaign, the local United Way collected about $960,000 in donations, Shelton said.

mbliss@semissourian.com

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