Giving circles are paving the way for the future
By Tasha Mitchell
Face | June 13, 2011
Currently there are over 1.5 million nonprofit organizations in the United States according to National Center for Charitable Statistics (NCCS). This number includes public charities, private foundations, and other types of nonprofit organizations, including chambers of commerce, fraternal organizations and civic leagues.
With the state of the economy charitable organizations have seen a decline in contributions both on an individual and corporate level. We all know donations are the lifeline to these organizations; however, when our finances are hit heavy it makes an impact on our giving.
Organizations who support the disadvantaged at their most pressing time of need— feel the greatest impact. Many donors are fortunate to have disposable income that enables them to contribute without affecting the bottom line. Yet for most twenty to early forty something’s who are heavily engaged in building their lives: from getting married to raising children to starting or managing their businesses, funds can be somewhat limited.
Despite the busyness of life , they are passionate about social causes and recognize the importance of being connected to the community. The Future Fund, a new Giving Circle for professionals in their 20’s, 30’s and 40’s at the Community Foundation for Northern Virginia not only aligns itself with this demographic but understands the mindset and lifestyle of this group. Making an impact by investing in the community where they live, work and play is important.
The Future Fund mission is to help those with the most critical needs in the community. 
Giving on a level that is affordable and then combining the contributions together is a perfect way to increase the social and financial impact. Bringing together driven individuals on a professional and personal level to learn about the local area and then come together to change the circumstances of those who need it most, changes lives.
Reaching out to Northern Virginia is an important goal and social events allow this demographic of young professionals to meet, join and take part with one another on issues that affect our community.
The Future Fund held its inaugural Black and White Gala hosted by The Community Foundation for Northern Virginia this past May. More than 500 business, philanthropic, and community leaders gathered to participate in this elegant and festive Gala dinner which included a silent and live auction. I had the opportunity to attend this festive event, socializing, and networking with like-minded individuals.
Ryan Rauner spoke about the vision of the Future Fund and how young people can get involved in changing the landscape of Northern Virginia. People from varying professions were engaged and showed their committed to being a part of something big.
Events for a cause are always great and this inaugural Black and White gala had everyone dancing with purpose to our greatest hits and bringing back those “I Remember When” moments.
Everyone has a social cause that not only resonates but prompts them to make a difference. Sara Jaffe, Vice President of the Community Foundation, stated, “What’s interesting and compelling about the Future Fund is the members choose the direction it wants to take for grant making.”
- Education
- Child and Youth Development
- Poverty Relief
- Health
- Military Personnel and their Families
In late June, the Future Fund members will meet to learn about and vote on the core field of interest they want to support during the 2012 fiscal year.
This kind of collective philanthropic approach to giving for young professionals is the way of the future. Combining social interests in philanthropic causes, resources and finances is an optimal way to do something on small level yet reach people in a big way.
Giving is such an important element in our personal and professional growth. Nonprofits offer us an avenue to support causes and impact an individual or millions in ways that can improve their lives for the better.
Learn more about the The Future Fund and The Community Foundation of Northern Virginia
For More Nonprofit Resources
Charity Navigator, America’s premier independent charity evaluator, works to advance a more efficient and responsive philanthropic marketplace by evaluating the financial health of over 5,500 of America’s largest charities.
Guidestar.org, gather and publicize information about nonprofit organizations you care about and the work they do
Foundation Center is the leading source of information about philanthropy worldwide. The Center maintains the most comprehensive database on U.S. and, increasingly, global grant makers and their grants — a robust, accessible knowledge bank for the sector.
Idealist connects people, organizations, and resources to help build a world where all people can live free and dignified lives.
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About the Author
Tasha Mitchell is the founder of Face magazine and co-owner of Kendal Alexander Media Operations, a lifestyle media company publishing positive content for multi-hued, globally focused audience. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration in Marketing from the University of Central Florida and resides in Northern Virginia.
