Women's Giving Circle Profile, University of Arkansas

The Story of Transforming Women’s Giving at the University of Arkansas

The Concept:
In the fall of 2001, the Women in Philanthropy committee – part of the University of Arkansas’ Campaign for the Twenty-First Century – aspired to form a working group of women that would live past the scheduled end of the campaign in June 2005. The purpose, as determined by these eight business and community leaders, would be to create a substantial pool of new money from women in support of the University while encouraging women to become philanthropic leaders.

The Beginning:
A Council for Advancement and Support of Education (CASE) conference and a day-long planning retreat were all that was needed to put into place the details for the launch of the University of Arkansas Women’s Giving Circle. The details included the vision for the Giving Circle – to transform women’s giving to the University of Arkansas – and mission – to unite contributions from women in support of the University through a collective voice.

The Women’s Giving Circle was provided UA staff through the Office of Annual Giving. The staff were responsible for developing a brochure, note cards, and stationery. In addition, they outlined a solicitation plan and were responsible for ensuring each step of the process went off without a hitch.

The group defined its purpose as follows:

  • Cultivate women as philanthropic leaders
  • Create a new and substantial pool of money from women
  • Identify appropriate and timely opportunities with special emphasis given to the enrichment of women’s lives
  • Allocate funds based on majority preference
  • Accomplish change
  • Celebrate the impact
  • Attain recognition as a “difference maker,” a valued and significant resource

The core group determined that membership would require a $1,000 per year commitment for three years.  A special rate of $500 was provided for current students and recent graduates. Their goal was to obtain 50 members during the first year. This goal was achieved as a total of 51 women became charter members by the time the first funding awards were made.  Currently, membership is at 90 as the Giving Circle approaches its third year of grant making. Gifts could be made in a one-time cash gift or through a pledge paid out during the year to accommodate the preferences of the members.

Membership Solicitation: 
Members were solicited in several ways. The first was the grassroots effort of the eight founding members. A brochure was created in a size that is easily carried in a handbag without making one feel like a salesperson. During conversations with prospective members, the founders felt that it was extremely helpful to have information easily at hand for answering questions. At the end of the conversation, they could leave the brochure, which included a membership pledge card and return envelope, with their prospect.

Next, the eight founders provided names to the Office of Annual Giving for people they felt would be interested and capable of making a commitment of $1,000 per year. These individuals were sent a letter on behalf of the person who submitted the name, informing them of the new Women’s Giving Circle initiative. 

Finally, a broad appeal was mailed to every UA alumnae or friend who had contributed at a minimum level in the past five years.  This appeal was a letter stating that the Giving Circle had been formed. Enclosed was a card which could be checked “yes, I am interested in the Women’s Giving Circle, please send me more information” or “please have a Women’s Giving Circle representative call me.”

Voting and Funding Awards:
The beauty of this group is that each member, regardless of giving history or potential, community status or professional title, has one vote. Nearly thirty proposals were brought forward each year. A committee is charged with narrowing down the proposals to a manageable number, 4-6 proposals. The top proposals are asked to make live presentations in front of the membership.  One of the most beneficial things to the in-person presentations was it provided members with an insider’s view into the caliber of research and programs being conducted right here at the U of A.  he members were astounded by the variety and quality of research taking place and left the meeting with a new reason to be proud of the fine institution that they support. Funding announcements are made “academy award” style the day after the voting has taken place.

Celebrate the Success:
The Women’s Giving Circle celebrates their success at a symposium the day following the voting. WGC members, local alumnae, community leaders, and campus administrators are invited to the luncheon. During the hour and a half program, the funding awards are presented to campus projects that enhance the lives of women. Funding awards in the amount of $35,000 were made the first year, $55,000 the second and in the third year, nearly $80,000 will be awarded.

Tips for Success:
First, to succeed, a giving circle must have an inspired and committed group willing to spearhead the effort. In addition, the support of the institution (including adequate staffing) is an absolute must! Also, think out of the box in the design of the printed material. They must speak to being a woman without being “girlie.” Finally, the group must have an understanding that women think differently about their philanthropy and a unified and clearly articulated vision about the initiatives they are willing to support.