A Giving Circle is a collaborative form of philanthropy where individuals pool their financial contributions and collectively decide which existing programs they would like to fund. Think of it as a small, localized foundation built and run by its members.

Giving Circles

Aspects of a Giving Circle

  • Pooled Resources

    Members contribute a set amount of money on a regular basis (e.g., monthly, quarterly, annually). This collective giving creates a larger pool of funds than any individual might donate on their own, allowing for more significant contributions. Each YWCA Tulsa Circle will donate 75% of its total to general operating funds, and 25% will be dedicated to an existing program of their choice.

  • Education & Engagement

    Giving Circles often serve as a way for individuals to become more engaged in philanthropy and learn about the needs and work of the nonprofit to which they are contributing. The collaborative nature fosters discussion, shared learning, and a deeper understanding of our community’s issues.

  • Shared Decision Making

    A defining characteristic of a Giving Circle is the democratic process involved in selecting programs to fund. 

  • Networking

    You will be connected with other like-minded individuals who share vision for our programs and desire for the programs’ continued growth. Some Circles may develop deeper connections, identify additional volunteer opportunities, and increase awareness for YWCA Tulsa. Each Circle will set their own cadence for meeting, including frequency, date/time and location. Circles are supported by the Individual Giving Manager to host these meetings.

Amplify Your Impact.

In essence, a Giving Circle empowers individuals to become more strategic and impactful philanthropists by leveraging collective resources and shared decision-making to support the work of YWCA Tulsa. It's a way to democratize giving, foster community engagement, and amplify the impact of individual donations.

 

Each Circle member contributes a minimum of $1,000 minimum annually (with the exception of the Founding Circle at $1,500.) Seventy-five percent of each donation will go to general operating expenses and 25% will be dedicated to an existing program of YWCA Tulsa. Pledges can be paid annually, quarterly or monthly and all payment arrangements are confidential.

  • Founding Circle

    Vocal advocates for all YWCA programs who want to contribute to our mission of eliminating racism, empowering women and promoting peace, justice, freedom, and dignity for all; limited to 25 members.

  • Justice Circle

    For those interested in supporting access to equitable and affordable legal services for our neighbors who are immigrants and refugees, along with other resources building self-sufficiency and success within our community. 

  • Amplify Circle

    Women supporting women; passionate about advancing female empowerment, education, and economic opportunity through YWCA programs in our community.

Join a Giving Circle Today!

 FAQs

  • This varies by Circle. The Founding Circle is the largest at 25 donors who are likely to be multi-year, dedicated supporters of our mission. The remaining Circles may remain smaller at their choosing.

  • Once each Circle is funded and we’ve hosted the launch event, members will meet and set a cadence for their involvement expectations for the next year. While some Circles may only have time/desire to meet quarterly, some Circles may find that they want to meet on a more frequent basis, learn more about YWCA Tulsa’s mission and programs and get involved in other capacities.

    We welcome all levels of involvement, and our Individual Giving Manager will meet with each Circle to support with meeting space reservations, refreshments and communications. No Circle will be solely responsible for managing scheduled meetings, but are welcome to meet outside of formal meeting dates at their leisure.

  • We have identified the first person invited to join as the point of contact between YWCA Tulsa and their group. You will be able to look to this person for additional information as it comes about meetings, tours and celebrations.

  • The Seedlings Circle is being developed as our way of recognizing that many 35 & under want to begin personal giving but need an option with a lower barrier to entry as they develop their giving profile. We want to encourage our next generation of donors to learn more about how their giving can impact their neighbors and city at large as they join the Seedlings Circle and meet with peers who share their philanthropic interests.

  • Giving to general operating expenses is important because it provides flexible funding that allows nonprofits to address a wider range of needs, including salaries, technology, and overall operational stability. This type of funding supports an organization's ability to carry out its mission effectively, build capacity, and ensure long-term sustainability.