Giving circles, which tripled in the United States from 2007-2017, help introduce new and increasingly diverse donors into the world of philanthropy. As giving circles continue to grow more popular, two reports from WPI and the Collective Giving Research Group provide a deeper understanding of how this women-driven model of giving is evolving and influencing the philanthropic sector.

The second report, Dynamics of Hosting Giving Circles, explores the hosting experiences of community foundations and other organizations. Key findings include:

  • Contributing to a culture of philanthropy in their communities is the top reason that hosts are motivated to start or support a giving circle, followed by reaching new donors and a more diverse set of donors.
  • The most fundamental service provided by giving circle hosts is serving as a fiscal sponsor; other top services offered include providing communications support, organizing educational opportunities for members and soliciting proposals from potential grantees.
  • Hosts cited staff time required, differences in expectations between the giving circle and host organization, and covering costs as the biggest challenges associated with hosting giving circles.

Learn more about giving circles: The Latino Community Foundation discusses the efforts of its Latino Giving Circle Network.