Giving together is better

The Eastland Giving Circle began with a simple idea. How can you make a bigger impact with your charitable giving? A group of friends in Eastern Jackson County decided that together they could make a big difference by pooling their resources to make one large grant to a nonprofit organization in their area. 
 
They hosted casual get-togethers, both large and small, to pass along their passion for giving to their friends. Checks for $302.50 began to pour into the fund that the circle set up at the Community Foundation.

The grants committee reviewed nine applications from local organizations that provide emergency assistance to people in need – their focus for this year. Using the in-depth information on the Nonprofit Search, they narrowed the list to three applicants for a membership vote.

The year-end celebration was also a surprise party for the more than 80 circle members. Who would receive their $25,000 grant? Hillcrest Transitional Housing of Eastern Jackson County will use the funds to help their more than 225 residents with items needed to help them get a job and get back on their feet: gas cards, bus passes, automobile repair, eyeglasses, medical or dental assistance or needed items for their children.

“Now, just think of what we can do next year!” said a board member.

The Community Foundation administers Giving Circles across the metro area. Contact us if you're interested in joining one, or if you'd like to start your own!