Good news from Giving USA's 2014 report: Charitable giving has not just regained ground lost after 2008, it has surpassed pre-recession levels.

"Charitable giving exceeded pre-recession rates in 2014, with Americans donating $358.38 billion, according to a new report that tracks philanthropy. The number marks the first time in seven years that charitable giving has exceed pre-recession rates, according to the annual Giving USA report. Last year marked the fifth straight year of growth in total charitable giving. The report credits a "healthier American economy" for the 7.1% increase in giving in 2014." -- Mary Bowerman, USA Today