Is a Giving Circle Right for You?

Before you start or join a giving circle, consider whether a giving circle is right for you. Here are some questions to ask yourself:

Are you ready?
Do you want to learn more about local philanthropy?
Do you want to have a greater impact?
Do you like to work in a team?

Are you ready to increase your community engagement?

A giving circle is active philanthropy. How much time you have to commit depends on the size of the giving circle, when the circle began, and your role (e.g. chair a committee). When considering joining a giving circle, think about how much time you have to give and weigh it against how much time the circle will need from you. For other ways to give, read about resources for individual givers.

Do you want to learn more about philanthropy and the charitable groups in your community?

Giving circle members learn about community issues and organizations. Circle members often get a chance to visit nonprofits and meet with staff. Members also learn how charitable giving works through grantmaking. 

Do you want your donations to have a greater impact?

Other giving circle members match your gift, so you can make bigger contributions to causes you care about. Giving through a circle also means that you do not have individual control of how to direct your money, since members make all decisions together.

Do you like to work in a team?

To start and manage a giving circle there are many practical and philosophical decisions for all members to make. As a giving circle grows, members may change the mission and goals of the circle. Being a member of a giving circle is an ongoing process. Many members find giving circles energizing and enlightening.