A study released last week by the University of Pennsylvania's Center for High Impact Philanthropy indicates some of the habits of the nation's wealthiest donors. (The survey interviewed those who on average donate at least $1.5 million on an annual basis.)

Despite donating millions each year, very few of the respondents chose to identify themselves as "philanthropists," preferring more modest terms like "community supporter."

The study found that wealthy donors are most likely to determine a gift based on personal experience or recommendations from within their social networks. Due to the difficulties of tracking major gifts, many recipients cited greater willingness to give something tangible -- a new library or a specific scholarship. Donors also stated that it was often difficult to obtain information on an organization's progress without seeming "high-maintenance."

You can read more about the study's findings at the Center for High Impact Philanthropy, a resource center founded by Wharton alums that helps high net worth individuals maximize their charitable giving impact.

[via The Chronicle of Philanthropy]