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WHO WE ARE
The Circle is a small group of women who gather quarterly to support meaningful work within our community. It was created as a simple way to bring people together, without complexity, to learn about different organizations doing important work and to contribute in a direct, collective way.
The circle is grounded in a simple idea that collective, intentional giving, done thoughtfully and without complexity can have a tangible and immediate impact. More than a traditional giving group, The Circle is designed to feel considered and welcoming. It is as much about the experience of gathering as it is about the act of giving.
WHAT WE DO
Four times a year, members of The Circle come together in a relaxed setting for about an hour.
At each gathering:
• Three local nonprofit organizations are introduced
• Members listen, reflect, and vote privately
• One organization is selected
• Each member contributes directly to the organization
The format is intentionally straightforward, allowing the focus to remain on both the experience and the impact.
HOW IT WORKS
Members in good standing may nominate organizations ahead of each gathering.
From those nominations, three are selected to be presented. Each is introduced briefly, with a focus on their work and how the support would be used.
Following the presentations, members vote. The selected organization becomes that quarter's recipient.
Each member then contributes individually and directly to the organization ensuring that support is immediate and transparent.
MEMBERSHIP
Membership is by invitation or referral and intentionally limited in size to 100.
There are no committees or ongoing responsibilities. Participation is simple - attend when you can, take part in the conversation, and contribute alongside the group.
CONTRIBUTION
Each member contributes per gathering, given directly to the selected nonprofit.
Because donations are made individually, each member receives acknowledgment directly from the organization.
THE EXPERIENCE
Gatherings are designed to feel calm, welcoming and easy to be a part of. The structure is simple, leaving space for both thoughtful giving and natural connection.
MEMBERSHIP OVERVIEW
• Membership is by invitation or referral with no annual dues.
• Membership is non-transferable.
• Each member is encouraged to engage thoughtfully.
• Participation may include nominating organizations and attending gatherings
• Members are prepared to contribute per gathering based on membership tier:
- Circle Member $100 quarterly
- Emerging Member (under age 35) $50 quarterly
• Members make payment directly to the charitable recipient within 3 business days.
• Payments may be made via personal check at the gathering event or via the charity's online donation link which will be provided.
• Good standing within The Circle is maintained through timely fulfillment of the quarterly charitable contribution.
• Voting is extended to members in good standing. While attendance is not required, thoughtful participation in the process is encouraged.
• Members not in attendance at a gathering will be contacted with the charity recipients information to make payment within 3 business days.
• Members charity nominations must be submitted 15 days in advance of the gathering via the nomination submittal form.
• Final 3 organizations selected for voting are curated by leadership from member nominations.
• Members of The Circle agree to act with respect and integrity and to support a culture of connection over transaction...to honor the shared intention of thoughtful giving and meaningful participation.
• We may from time to time, gather informally beyond the quarterly meetings.
• We kindly request that memberships be formally canceled if participation is no longer possible.
• Membership, nomination, and membership cancellation forms are available on the Forms page for your convenience.
Forms may be completed online or downloaded and printed for submission manually.
