See who tops ‘most generous American philanthropist’ list

SEATTLE – Americans with deep pockets were more generous last year than in year’s past.

According to a publication called ‘The Chronicle of Philanthropy,’ the country’s 50 biggest donors gave $7.7 billion last year, four percent more than 2012.

Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg and his wife were the most generous, giving away Facebook shares valued at more than $970 million.

Nike’s co-founder, Phil Knight was also a top donor.

Jack MacDonald, a former lawyer from Seattle who lived a very frugal life, also made the list. He died last year, leaving $139 million to Seattle Children’s Hospital, the University of Washington and the Salvation Army.

Surprisingly, Warren Buffet and Bill and Melinda Gates didn’t make the list this year. According to CNN, the list is based on new financial commitments made in a given year, rather than ongoing commitments.