In Uncertain Times, Donors Hold Back

Mr. Kohan, Professor Droms and other experts on charitable giving discussed ways donors might give in tough times without putting themselves in financial peril, should the economy and financial markets continue their fall.

For example, Mr. Kohan said, an organization asked a supporter for a multiyear pledge for a capital project. The man felt it might not be possible for him to keep the pledge. But there can be a middle ground, Mr. Kohan said. “We’re coming off a period of yes, yes, yes. It doesn’t have to be no, no, no.”