The Elevate Fund: A giving circle focused on empowering women and the community at large
What is a Giving Circle?
A giving circle is a form of participatory philanthropy where groups of individuals donate their own money or time to a pooled fund, then decide together what projects and charities they will support with that money. In the process, the group seeks to increase their awareness of and engagement in the issues covered by the circle, as well as educate others on those issues.
The Elevate Fund focuses on collaboration, empowerment and learning. You will join a passionate group of women who are pooling their resources to make a difference and create a legacy. A giving circle is a great way for you and your network of friends, family and colleagues to make a difference in our region - together.
Mission:
The mission of the Elevate Fund is to empower, connect and inspire women and girls in our local community by supporting initiatives and resources that better their lives.
Vision:
The Elevate Fund envisions a thriving community where women and girls are empowered with the opportunities, resources and support they need to lead, succeed and create meaningful change.
Core Values:
1.) Supportive - We foster meaningful relationships and networks that unite women across generations, backgrounds and experiences to uplift and support one another.
2.) Community Trust - As part of our region's responsive and supportive Community Foundation, we act with integrity, transparency and accountability in all we do.
3.) Responsiveness - We listen to the evolving needs of women and girls in our community and adapt our initiatives to ensure the most effective support and advocacy.
Membership Tiers
- Supporters Tier ($25-$99): This giving tier is for those that want to support the Elevate Fund's mission to empower, connect and inspire women and girls in our community by supporting initiatives that better their lives. In the spirit of encouraging younger philanthropists, women under age 30 can become an Elevate Fund member at this giving level. If this includes you, you will be asked to provide your birthdate.
- Advocates Tier ($100 - $249): This tier includes full membership and voting privileges on grant decisions.
- Sustainers Tier ($250-$499): This tier includes full voting privileges and recognition at events and on the this webpage.
- Leaders Tier ($500+): This tier includes participation in the circle's leadership committee which is overseen by the founders board. The leadership committee will have input on events, possible programs, the grant process and more. Members at this tier will have voting privileges and will receive special recognition at circle events and on this webpage. Any amount contributed above $500 will be added to an endowment fund for the giving circle in order to support the circle's sustainability and increase its impact over time. Ex. $600 membership contribution: $500 to grantmaking, $100 to endowment.
Topics for education, advocacy and philanthropy:
- Access to Education - Advocate for improved access to quality education for girls in rural areas, including intitiatives to provide scholarships, build schools, or support distance learning programs.
- Career Development and Job Preparation - Support initiatives that provide vocational training, job skills development and mentorship programs tailored to the needs of women in rural communities.
- Entrepreneurship and Small Business Support - Advocate for resources and programs that help women start and grow their own businesses, such as microfinance loans, business training workshops and networking opportunities.
- Childcare Support - Address the lack of affordable and accessible childcare options in rural areas by advocating for policies that support childcare subsidies, community childcare centers or flexible work arrangements.
- Networking and Mentorship - Create mentorship programs that connect women in rural communities with successful professionals in their fields, providing guidance, support and networking opportunities.
- Access to Healthcare - Advocate for improved access to healthcare services for women and girls in rural areas, including reproductive healthcare, maternal care and mental health support.
- Addressing Gender-Based Violence - Advocate for initiatives that raise awareness about gender-based violence and provide support services for survivors, including shelters, hotlines and legal assistance.
- Cultural and Social Empowerment - Support initiatives that promote gender equality, challenge harmful stereotypes and empower women and girls to assert their rights and voice in their communities.
Leadership
Founders Board
Check back for more info on this!
Leadership Board
Check back for more info on this!
