How We Work:

The cornerstones of membership in a giving circle are personal philanthropic gifts and a collective vision.

As a member of Women United in Philanthropy, our personal philanthropic gift is substantial and meaningful. We give it annually and we pool our gifts together in order to have greater impact. Our collective vision is to use our combined funds to help lift women out of poverty, get them on the road to economic stability and keep them there.

Each member contributes $1000 or more each year to the Women United in Philanthropy pooled grant fund. All members provide feedback each year about their philanthropic interests and are informed about needs of women in Bergen County.

Each spring, we request proposals from organizations in the community providing services to women. We seek creative initiatives that address key problems women face in achieving economic strength and stability.

Each fall, after proposals are vetted and evaluated, we gather as a membership to vote on which proposal to select to receive our funds. Every member casts one vote, regardless of the size of her contribution. Every member is expected to vote.