By: Hal C Clarke

Forest Hills, a picturesque neighborhood in Queens, has earned the esteemed title of the most generous neighborhood in the United States, according to a recent analysis by Charity Navigator. This watchdog group meticulously tracks and rates tax-exempt charitable organizations, offering a platform for individuals to contribute to various causes.

The evaluation spanned donations made on the platform from November 2021 to November 2023 by residents of cities or neighborhoods with populations exceeding 50,000.

The heartening revelation places Forest Hills at the pinnacle, with its residents exhibiting remarkable generosity by contributing $24.56 per capita—the highest in the nation. Following closely are San Ramon, Calif. ($22.62); Evanston, Ill. ($22.24); Magnolia, Texas ($20.65); McLean, Va. ($20.44); Bethesda, Md. ($18.02); Gig Harbor, Wash. ($17.57); Silver Spring, Md. ($14.48); Cedar Park, Texas ($12.97), and Oviedo, Fla. ($10.14).

Forest Hills, characterized by middle to affluent demographics, features suburban homes and luxury high-rises within an urban backdrop. Lined with Tudor houses along Queens Boulevard and Metropolitan Avenue, it also boasts an enclave with private streets—Forest Hills Garden. Accessible via subway and Long Island Railroad stops, the neighborhood is renowned for the Forest Hills stadium, drawing crowds for summer concerts.

Notable residents, including the iconic singing duo Paul Simon and Art Garfunkel, punk legends The Ramones, and even Spider-Man, contribute to the neighborhood’s vibrant cultural tapestry. With over a third of its residents identifying as Jewish and a growing Asian-American population, Forest Hills embodies diversity.

Jewish organizations emerged as major beneficiaries of Forest Hills’ benevolence, with donations pouring into causes such as Magen David Adom, Israel’s national emergency medical service, Friends of Tel Aviv University, Friends of Hebrew University, and the Anti-Defamation League. Other notable recipients include the 92nd Street Y, Doctors Without Borders, Planned Parenthood, and the United High Commissioner for Refugees.

During challenging times, Forest Hills merchants rallied for humanitarian causes, organizing fundraisers to support Ukrainians following Russia’s invasion. Charity Navigator witnessed a significant surge in website traffic during this period, reflecting a heightened sense of social responsibility.

However, the current year has seen a 20% decline in user donations on the platform. Kevin Scally, Chief of Charity Navigator’s relations office, attributes this downturn to economic challenges, with inflation eroding discretionary income. The aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, coupled with back-to-back conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East, has led to what Scally refers to as “donor fatigue” among some individuals.

Queens Borough President Donovan Richards expressed pride in Forest Hills’ generosity, emphasizing the community’s commitment to supporting neighbors during tough times. He declared, “We show generosity to our neighbors during tough times. We are the world’s borough.” Forest Hills stands not only as a beacon of generosity but also as a testament to the strength of community bonds in the face of adversity.

This middle to affluent community, adorned with Tudor houses and luxury high-rises, boasts cultural diversity, with a significant Jewish and growing Asian-American population. Notable residents, including Paul Simon, Art Garfunkel, and The Ramones, add to its rich cultural tapestry. Beyond its vibrant cultural scene, Forest Hills exhibits a strong sense of social responsibility, supporting causes globally, from Jewish organizations to humanitarian efforts in response to international crises.