Have you heard of “Giving Circles”?
Giving Circles are a growing trend in philanthropy.
Basically, it involves pooling together individual’s money and resources to give to selected charities. The benefits are that it allows individual donors to network among themselves, leverage their resources, and enhance the impact of their giving.
Joining a giving circle also makes a person think more about where they want to contribute, which can make donating more fulfilling. Many of the giving circles actually visit and interview potential recipients, while others offer guidance to nonprofits that get their financial support. It is more of a personal investment than simply writing a check. If you lack the time or interest in volunteering for a nonprofit, joining a giving circle can be a great alternative.
Giving circles usually form around a commitment to a specific cause (i.e. MS research, education in math/science for girls). By grouping money together giving circles are able to have much more of an impact than if they were contributing alone.
Wouldn’t it be great if there was a group committed to influencing the direction of medical research by supporting collaborative efforts that follow research plans to develop patient treatments?
How do you start one?
- Gather a group of friends or family members to discuss giving circles. Determine how often the group will meet, whether will be a limit on the number of participants, how much time the giving circle will require from its members and how much money each contributor should donate.
- Establish the group’s mission.
- Open a bank account to deposit contributions.
- Determine what types of groups should benefit from funding.
Suggested Reading and Resources
For more information research Giving Circles online or visit the Giving Forum.
“The Impact of Giving Together”(PDF) by Angela M. Eikenberry and Jessica Bearman
Directory of Giving Circles (PDF) in the United States
Let us know if you are part of a Giving Circle or will be forming one soon by posting in the comments section. If you want to visit our office in Saratoga, CA we’d be happy to talk with you about the MRF’s mission, our strategies and our results.
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