This time of year tends to bring out the spirit of giving in most of us.

But a report from WalletHub suggests charitable giving across the United States is decreasing. Overall, our nation dropped to 19th place last year on the World Giving Index.

We are pleased to report, though, that in its list of Most Charitable States in America, Ohioans ranked ninth overall in the survey conducted by the Washington, D.C.-based personal financial website. Frankly, we aren’t surprised. From our vantage point, Ohioans generally can be recognized for their work ethic and generosity.

By comparison, neighboring Pennsylvania ranked sixth overall, and nearby West Virginia ranked a disappointing 45th.

Ohio also was ranked 29th in the poorest and most charitable category, while Pennsylvania found itself ranked 23rd in the richest and most charitable category, proving the impulse to help others is not just about income level.

The Buckeye State was ranked 11th for volunteering and service, Pennsylvania 12th and West Virginia 27th. Oregon was first in that category while California was ranked last.

West Virginia also was 50th in terms of being the poorest states, and therefore sat squarely in the middle of the Poorest and Least Charitable category.

Here’s an interesting detail from WalletHub’s report. It also found blue states tended to be better givers than red states, with liberal-leaning states having an average ranking of 23.48, and more conservative states having an average ranking of 28.17.

WalletHub added that more than 77 million people across the United States will volunteer for a combined 6.9 billion hours per year, adding up to $167 billion in service. Indeed, that’s incredible.

Plenty among us have the means to make a difference, should they so choose. If you can volunteer, we encourage you to do so. If you can give money, supplies or have other resources that might help, give. It’s clear by these statistics and the regular anecdotal reports we often report from charities that many of us already do that every day.

Still, we suspect there are others who could help more. If you’re able, this is the time of year when it might mean the most.

Even if you never meet the people for whom your contribution of money or time will be a lifeline, you can smile knowing you are doing what you can, and you are making a difference.

editorial@vindy.com