If “giving circle” is new to some, the words are a “growing global movement.” As Philanthropy Together reported, “There are now more than 2,500 active circles around the world giving intentionally and thoughtfully. Giving circles bring together people with shared values to collectively discuss and decide where to make pooled gifts. Giving circle [members] support with their dollars, but also build awareness, volunteer, become board members and more.”
Two North Texas “giving circles” that have been in operation for years include
- Orchid Giving Circle was established in 2015 “to increase awareness of the local Asian population, community needs and knowledge about philanthropy.” In the past nine years, the group comprised of South, East and Southeastern Asian women has “raised $1.7M and awarded grants to more than 40 organizations around the state.” Just last year its 22 grantees included Asian Pacific Islander American Scholars, Best Buddies, Mosaic Family Services, Scholar Shot, Texas Muslim Women’s Foundation and more.
- Village Giving Circle was founded by nine Black women in 2017 to help transform their community by investing collective resources in organizations and initiatives that positively impact the Black community. Simply put — they wanted to encourage philanthropy among African-American women and combine financial contributions to help local organizations address unmet needs. As a result, they have provided more than $1.3M in grants to non-profits primarily focused on the arts and culture, education, economic security, social services, health and youth services.
Recently the two giving circles have joined Communities Foundation of Texas (CFT) “to build thriving communities.” In response to this new partnership and to encourage new donors, CFT has announced a match of $25,000 for each of the giving circles.
According to CFT President/ CEO Wayne White, “Communities Foundation of Texas seeks to grow community giving and expand community impact. Similar to the concept of CFT’s North Texas Giving Day, we believe in the impact of collective giving models and the power of pooling resources to address unmet needs. These two growing organizations have a longstanding commitment to investing in our community, and we’re grateful to partner with them to double the impact of those who support their efforts. In addition to supporting their technical platforms and grantmaking, CFT will also provide the Giving Circles with access to our local philanthropic expertise to further amplify their efforts.”
If you would like to be one of those new donors, click for the Orchid Giving Circle here and for the Village Giving Circle here.
* Photo courtesy of Communities Foundation of Texas
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