|
Left
middle photo by Michael
Jacobson-Hardy
|
 |
|
|
by Jennifer Ladd, co-founder of Class Action
|
What is a giving circle? It is a group of people who pool money and make group decisions around how and where to make charitable gifts.
Why might you want to create a giving circle? Giving circles can be wonderful ways to build relationships between people, and they very often add value to the group’s contributions. You can work with friends, neighbors, family members, or with others who
share your passions.
Here are some pointers to get you going:
1. Create a mission and establish goals, objectives and criteria for your giving circle. What is your particular interest? Consider issues such as geographic range, kind of constituents served, size of grants, type of organization, etc.
2. Decide on a point person to hold the logistics and energy of the group. Momentum can bog down if there is not at least one person who keeps in touch with people in between meetings and makes sure the meetings happen.
3. Create a structure that works for everyone. How often will you meet, where, for how long? Find ways to work around participants’ constraints of time, transportation, childcare, and space. Also decide if you want individual members to
be anonymous or know to those you fund.
4. Commit yourselves to being open and honest with each other, even when it is difficult. This is where you will learn the most about your own class assumptions and those of others.
5. Decide how you want to handle group member’s contributions to the Circle. Make sure you address any feelings and concerns about this and make sure that everyone understands that everybody’s contribution matters equally. More money does not mean more say.
6. Decide on a structure through which the money will flow. If you are small or just getting started, you may pool your money and alternate who in the group will send checks. For groups with more resources, you may be able to create a donor advised account at a public foundation that is in alignment with your group’s values.
7. Be clear with groups what you do and don’t expect from them; when and how you will communicate with them. Do you want proposals, updates and reports? Treat all grantees with respect.
8. Have fun. Share food, personal stories, and perhaps field trips. It will benefit your giving.
9. Create a name. It helps build identity. I have been part of circles with names like Gone Giving, Bold Bodacious Babes and Bob, and the Art Angels.
10. Take time to evaluate and learn. What is working well, what is not, and why? What can you learn about your own relationship to class and money and to making social change?
Jennifer Ladd, a Class Action co-founder and associate, is a leadership and money coach. www.jenniferladd.net. Facilitating and participating in giving circles has enriched Jenny Ladd’s own giving experience.
|
|
|
|
