In 1919, when the American Legion Auxiliary was founded, the average woman was balancing domestic responsibilities, low-wage work, or activism while navigating rapidly changing societal roles that were shifting after World War I. Fast forward to 2025, and the average woman is more educated, financially independent, and career-driven with more opportunities than ever before.
 
The woman’s role in the household — and all areas of society — has changed dramatically in recent decades. Women’s income has become more important to their families’ economic well-being, and more women are directing their household’s philanthropic giving. 
 
Women tend to adopt a hands-on approach to philanthropy, often engaging deeply with the organizations they support. The American Legion Auxiliary is a great example of this collaborative relationship where members leverage their networks to amplify impact and donate to initiatives that improve the lives of the veterans they love and are likely the reason why they joined the organization.  
 
Year after year, research conducted for the Women’s Philanthropy Institute (WPI) at the Indiana University Lilly Family School of Philanthropy has found that households headed by women at all levels of income and wealth give more money and are more likely to give than similarly situated men. This difference is most pronounced in women born before or during the Baby Boom (1946-1964) whose income and assets put them in the top 25 percent of wealth holders. Women in this group give 156% more to charity than men.
 
As Baby Boomers age, a significant wealth transfer is underway, with women poised to inherit a substantial portion. In January 2025, the Wall Street Journal reported that women are expected to inherit 70% of the $41 trillion in intergenerational wealth over the next 40 years, positioning them to have a profound impact on philanthropic endeavors.
 
According to Philanthropy News Digest, private wealth held by women globally grew from $34 trillion to $51 trillion — a 50% increase between 2010 and 2016. This substantial growth has empowered women to become more prominent and influential philanthropists. While overall participation in charitable giving has declined, the resilience and adaptability of women — coupled with their increasing financial influence — suggest a shifting landscape in philanthropy.