Alaskans sharing PFDs at unprecedented rates halfway to 2012 goal, pledges thus far total $1 million

ANCHORAGE – Generous Alaskans from across the state are opting to give a portion of their 2012 Permanent Fund dividend to nonprofit causes at rates that exceed the first three years of the program. Participation rates of 4.5 percent and an average $87 per donor thus far translate into $1,003,775 in pledged gifts this year, according to data provided by the Permanent Fund Dividend Division.

The million dollar figure represents the halfway point to this year’s campaign goal.

“These $25, $50, and $100 gifts add up quickly,” said Deborah Bitney, director of the Permanent Fund Dividend Division, “a...