Charity

Some economists say giving gifts just doesn't make sense. Joel Waldfogel, author of "Scroogenomics," talks with Kai Ryssdal about how the idea is fraught with value destruction.

Stacy Palmer, editor of The Chronicle of Philanthropy, talks with Bill Radke about how a 9% decline in giving this year will cut into the work charities are doing.

It's becoming more common for grocery store shoppers to be asked to contribute to charities while they're in the check-out line. Those small contributions can add up for worthy causes, but there are hidden costs involved. Michael May reports.

Authors Nicholas D. Kristof and Sheryl WuDunn talk with Kai Ryssdal about their book, "Half the Sky," and why more aid should be targeted to women so countries can be lifted out of impoverishment.

Many people are out of work or under-employed because of the recession, so you might think they'd use their free time to volunteer. Not so -- a new report out today shows that Americans are donating less of their time. Jeff Tyler reports.

State programs are being cut all across California, but one L.A. program is actually expanding. Summer Night Lights keeps parks open until midnight in some of the city's toughest neighborhoods. Jeff Tyler reports.

Helping friends or family members financially can be embarrassing for those on the receiving end. But a new Web site called "Giving Anonymously," is helping people give to those in need without the awkward face-to-face exchange. Lisa Napoli reports.

Even as the economy shows signs of a turnaround, experts say more people will likely become homeless. This is leading to a strain on U.S. shelters and limiting the options for those without permanent housing. Jeremy Hobson reports.

The Wall Street Journal's Roger Thurow, co-author of the book "Enough," talks with Kai Ryssdal about why the markets may be impeding getting food to poor countries, and what may help.