Although they vary in their size and interests, the common thread of Giving Circles is bringing together people who want to learn more about their community and leverage their charitable dollars for greater impact.

Make a greater impact through collective giving:

JOIN A GIVING CIRCLE

Unite with like-minded people who want to pool their charitable resources to address the needs of our community. Join a giving circle!

Giving Circles also provide social and educational benefits for their members as they share their hopes and visions for the community, research community needs, and make their collective decisions. It is a participatory process that strengthens the lives of all involved.

Jefferson County Community Foundation provides for the management of funds and support of the circles' activities so that Giving Circle members can spend their time on what they love best: Making a difference in our community!

Strategic philanthropy bridges 'what is' and 'what can be.' This is an exciting venture in philanthropy for all those involved. Can we interest you?

Learn more about Jefferson County's first giving circle:

WOMEN WHO CARE GIVING CIRCLE

Jefferson County's second giving circle:

GIFTING THE FUTURE

START A GIVING CIRCLE

You don’t need much to start a giving circle. Motivation, commitment, and an interest in philanthropy are the essential ingredients and we can help you from there. Jefferson County residents interested in learning more about giving circles may contact Kris Mayer at 360-379-3667 or kris@jccfgives.org.

Giving Circle Questions and Answers (PDF)

Giving Circle Agreement (PDF)
Giving Circle Host Agreement (PDF)
Fund Matrix (PDF)

What is a giving circle?

A Giving Circle is a pooled fund, generally hosted or sponsored by a charitable organization such as a community foundation, through which members of the circle make grants together. Giving Circles are typically organized around a particular issue or area of interest. They offer members a chance to participate in the grantmaking process. The process, combined with the increased impact of pooled charitable dollars, has strong appeal for many donors. Giving Circles are considered active philanthropy and can often make a greater impact by leveraging the dollars and influencing others.

Women Who Care Giving Circle in the news.....