Zoe Lawhorn

In recent years, the concept of collective giving has gained momentum as a powerful strategy for women seeking to make a difference in their communities and beyond. By pooling resources, knowledge, and networks, women are embracing this collaborative approach to philanthropy, amplifying their impact and promoting positive social change.

As the President of the Women’s Fund of Smith County, it is my joy to share the benefits of collective giving for women and why it has become a popular and effective strategy not just in the realm of philanthropy, but also right here in my hometown.

You my be asking — what is collective giving?

Collective giving, also known as giving circles or pooled philanthropy, is a collaborative approach to charitable giving. It involves a group of individuals, who share the same values or interests, coming together to contribute financially and strategically to support social causes. These groups can range from small circles of friends to larger networks or even formal organizations like the Women’s Fund of Smith County. The Women’s Fund started in 2007 with the original 120 Charter Members – many of whom are still active members of our circle. Today, we have a steady membership of around 350 women who renew their memberships each year.

Why is collective giving a good strategy for women?

One of the primary advantages of collective giving for women is the ability to magnify the impact of individual contributions. By pooling resources, even modest individual donations can transform into significant collective funds. This collaborative model empowers women to support causes they care about without requiring substantial individual wealth. Together, we can achieve a more substantial impact than we would on our own. As a member, I paid my pledge of $600 in 2022; in 2023, my pledge played a role in our collective grant award of $369,320 given to seven Smith County nonprofits.

Collective giving also provides an opportunity for women to connect, network, and collaborate with like-minded individuals who share their philanthropic goals. These networks foster supportive relationships and create a sense of community, allowing women to learn from one another, share experiences, and leverage their combined resources and skills. Such connections often extend beyond charitable giving, leading to professional collaborations and personal growth. While the only requirement of membership in the Women’s Fund is to make your annual pledge, members can also serve on committees, help with special events, and serve in leadership roles. I have had the opportunity to serve alongside some of the smartest, most compassionate, most capable women in our community as a member, and many of them have become my close friends because of my experiences with our giving circle.

Increasing knowledge and expertise

Collective giving circles offer a platform for women to deepen their knowledge and expertise in philanthropy and social issues. Members engage in shared learning experiences, including educational events, guest speakers, and site visits to organizations supported by their collective giving efforts. By gaining a better understanding of the challenges and opportunities in the social sector, women can make more informed decisions about their giving and become effective advocates for change.

Collective giving provides women with an opportunity to take on leadership roles and actively shape the direction of their philanthropic endeavors. Whether it’s helping with an event, serving on a committee, or driving strategic decision-making at the Board level, our members gain valuable leadership experience and develop the skills necessary to create positive change. This sense of empowerment often extends beyond the giving circle, inspiring our members to take on leadership roles in other areas of their lives.

Collective giving has emerged as a powerful strategy for women seeking to make a difference in their communities and society at large. By harnessing the power of collaboration, shared resources, and collective action, women can amplify their impact, build networks, and address critical social issues. Through collective giving, women are not only transforming lives and communities but also redefining traditional philanthropic practices and shaping a more inclusive and equitable future for all.