Giving USA 2026:National Trends, Local Perspectives
Join CCS Fundraising for a timely conversation on the latest Giving USA 2026 findings and what they signal for philanthropy. We’ll examine the key trends shaping charitable giving, including shifts in donor behavior, giving sources, and the unique economic factors influencing fundraising today. Then, hear from a panel of local nonprofit leaders as they reflect on how these national trends are impacting organizations, donors, and communities across the Lowcountry.
PANEL:
Vann Ellen Mitchell | Executive Vice President, CCS Fundraising (moderator)
Vann Ellen Mitchell is an Executive Vice President with more than a decade at CCS. She partners with institutions across the Atlantic region on major campaigns and donor engagement, drawing on extensive experience in capital and comprehensive fundraising, leadership gifts, and strategic planning.
Kris Kuhns | Senior Vice President, CCS Fundraising (moderator)
Kris Kuhns is a Senior Vice President at CCS Fundraising whose work is defined by strategic clarity, empathy, and a strong commitment to helping organizations advance their missions. Since joining CCS in 2016, she has guided nonprofits through complex campaigns and periods of transformational growth, drawing on nearly two decades of experience across the philanthropic sector.
Taryn Mason | Chief Development Officer, South Carolina Historical Society (panelist)
Originally from Southern Wisconsin, Taryn moved to Charleston after gaining extensive experience in nonprofit management, event fundraising, and major and planned giving while working with various nonprofits in Chicago. Before becoming the Chief Development Officer, she worked with Operation Sight and the Coastal Conservation League. Taryn Mason holds a bachelor’s degree in History from Georgia Southern University and a master’s degree in Museum and Exhibition Studies from the University of Illinois at Chicago. Taryn is the Immediate Past President of the Association of Fundraising Professionals' Lowcountry Chapter.
Carrie Mummert | Founding Advancement Officer, Cristo Rey Charleston High School (panelist)
Carrie Mummert serves as the Founding Advancement Director for Cristo Rey Charleston High School, bringing over three decades of experience in Catholic mission advancement, donor stewardship, and strategic fundraising leadership. Prior to joining Cristo Rey Charleston, Carrie served the Diocese of Charleston for more than 12 years in senior development roles, most recently as Director of Operations & Donor Management. During her tenure, she led a $60 million capital campaign, established donor societies, implemented parish stewardship initiatives, and helped grow the Annual Appeal to record levels.
Full participation in “Giving USA 2026: National Trends, Local Perspectives” is applicable for 1 point in Category 1.B – Education of the CFRE International application for initial certification and/or recertification.