Women Giving Together’s Power of Collective Giving
In a world where nonprofits grapple with funding cuts and heightened community needs, the story of Women Giving Together (WGT) in Delaware County, Ohio, offers timely inspiration.
This dynamic giving circle, with co-founder Sue Mahler, demonstrates just how much impact is achievable when individuals, especially women, pool their resources, ideas, and passion. Their journey from a handful of like-minded women to a powerful philanthropic force is a road map for community-driven change and a testament to the transformative nature of intentional giving.
Generosity by Example
The seeds of WGT were sown early for Sue Mahler, whose mother served as a civic trailblazer in Allentown, Pennsylvania. Watching her mother see a need and act, starting both a civic association and a public library, instilled in Mahler a deep belief in taking initiative for the greater good 02:12.
This ethos guided her move to Ohio, where her advocacy for excellent public education led to years of volunteerism and leadership in the local school system 03:03. When her children graduated, Mahler, alongside fellow leaders, channeled that same drive into building Women Giving Together.
From Small Beginnings to Million-Dollar Impact
What began as a modest group of eight women, contributing $6,500 to local nonprofits in their first year 00:50, has evolved into a formidable collective. With over 60 active members and a milestone achievement of over $1 million in total grant awards 01:06. The core concept is elegantly simple. They collect annual dues, set at a minimum of $1,100 per member, to create a significant pool of funds. This eliminates the need for frequent fundraising and allowing members to focus on collaboration and meaningful giving 06:25.
Often, the simple act of participating in WGT uncovers the “hidden needs” of even seemingly affluent communities like Delaware County (OH) 07:03. For many members, stepping out of their personal bubbles and learning about local nonprofits has been eye-opening, and motivating.
Leveraging Strategic Partnerships for Greater Good
A unique aspect of WGT’s success is its partnership with the Delaware County Foundation. Functioning under the Foundation’s umbrella as a donor-advised fund, WGT benefits from professional financial management, community expertise, and seamless grant distribution 10:54. This structure provides financial stability and regulatory ease. Members don’t need to create their own nonprofit entity nor take on additional administrative burdens 11:52.
The support from foundation staff is invaluable in identifying gaps in the community and introducing WGT to high-impact agencies. This collaboration is a great example of the often-unseen role that private and community foundations play in amplifying grassroots philanthropy 14:30.
Responsive, Values-Driven Grantmaking
Fexibility and responsiveness guides their approach. Each January, members choose focus areas for grantmaking. This ranges from homelessness to domestic violence to food insecurity. And they adjust those priorities in real time as community needs shift 15:13.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, for instance, WGT rapidly redirected funds to prevent evictions and address surging food insecurity 15:54. The review process is thorough. It features site visits, open discussion, and a rubric-based evaluation to ensure objective and impactful decision-making 18:17.
Members recognize and respect the value of every dollar. As Sue Mahler notes, “they become much more focused and intentional when it’s your money” 21:15. This is a natural outcome of personal financial commitment combined with shared purpose.
Gather and Give Event
While the standard membership includes a contribution, WGT’s annual “Gather and Give” event makes philanthropy accessible to everyone 29:09. Open to all, with no entrance fee, this celebration spotlights three vetted nonprofits and encourages attendees to give any amount they wish. The collective total makes the substantial change 29:43. With awareness as valued as dollars, these events foster new connections, empower attendees to share stories, and further extend WGT’s ripple effect 30:37.
Advice for Aspiring Changemakers
For those passionate about community transformation, Sue Mahler offers great advice. Don’t reinvent the wheel. Look for existing giving circles to join or adapt their models 33:49. What matters most is shared vision and a giving heart 27:02.
Women Giving Together stands as a shining example of what’s possible when generosity is multiplied, collaboration is prioritized, and giving is made both joyful and effective.
Are you inspired to become part of the movement? Email Women Giving Together at womengivingtogether@gmail.com for more information.
5 Frequently Asked Questions About Women Giving Together
- What is Women Giving Together?
Women Giving Together is a collective giving circle in Delaware County, Ohio, comprised of 65+ women who pool annual donations to fund grants for local nonprofits. - How do the group’s grantmaking and review process work?
Members meet annually. They decide focus areas, review nonprofit applications, conduct site visits, and use an objective evaluation system to award funds. - How is Women Giving Together structured financially?
The circle operates as a donor-advised fund with the Delaware County Foundation, ensuring financial protection, investment, and efficient grant disbursement without needing their own nonprofit status. - Can anyone join Women Giving Together or attend events?
Anyone with a kind, giving heart can apply for membership by emailing the group. There’s no pressure. Members can participate as much or as little as they wish. Prospective members are invited to attend meetings and events. - What advice does Women Giving Together offer to others wanting to start a giving circle?
Find and learn from existing giving circles before starting your own—there are multiple models, and connecting with experienced groups saves time and strengthens success.
