Handbags That Help:
Frequently
Asked Questions
Q: What is a giving circle?
A:
The “giving circle” concept is as simple as it is
powerful. A giving circle is formed when individuals come
together and pool their dollars, decide together where to give
the money, and learn together about their community and
philanthropy.
The concept behind giving circles is that
pooled giving has greater impact on making a difference in
the community.
Q: What is the
relationship between Handbags That Help and The Community
Foundation?
A:
HTH is a philanthropic organization hosted and supported by The Community
Foundation. HTH selects its own officers/committees and
establishes its own grantmaking policy. TCF staff members will provide assistance and
guidance to HTH where needed, including advising HTH regarding
tax and legal matters. All policy,
decisions and grants made by HTH and its voting membership are
done autonomously.
Q: Who can join
HTH?
A:
All women are invited to participate in the HTH Giving Circle
and become informed strategic philanthropists. An
contribution of $500 entitles you to one year of membership and a vote
as to how the money will be granted back to the community. The
annual membership drive takes place April - July of each
year.
Q: What if I cannot
afford the $500 annual membership fee?
A:
As an alternative to the $500 Individual Voting Membership,
women can join together to “share” a Joint Membership. With a
Joint Membership, 2-5 women split a membership and share a
single vote. Joint Members are all welcome to serve on the
Grants, Communications and Program
committees.
Q: Will members be
required to participate in fundraising activities?
A:
Members will not be asked to do any fundraising. The only thing
required of a member is a $500 annual contribution. That
donation gives you a single vote as to how the pooled funds will
be awarded that year.
Q: How much of my
donation goes towards administrative expenses?
A: Absolutely no
money from your donation will be used for administrative costs. 100% of your donation
will be granted back into the community each year.
Administrative expenses are covered by interest earned on the
collective fund and donations to the “Friends of HTH” fund at
The Community Foundation.
Q: Can I give more
than $500?
A: Absolutely! Each woman is
limited to single vote. However, additional funds may be used
several ways:
-
FRIENDS OF HTH:
Funds may be used towards the
administration of HTH for expenses like postage, meetings,
speakers etc. These donations, over and above the
amount of the membership, will be considered "Friends of HTH"
donations.
-
"GIFT"
A MEMBERSHIP: Depending on the amount of your
gift, you may want to consider "gifting" a membership to a
family member or friend. You would receive the tax-deduction
and your family member/friend will receive the membership
rights.
-
INCREASE THE
GRANT AMOUNT: Funds may be added to the total grant
amount.
Q: How much time
is involved in being a member of HTH?
A: That is entirely up to
you. Your involvement can range from as little as sending your
annual donation and casting your vote….to serving as an officer
or a committee member. Meetings are held four times per year -
March, April, September and December. For those who wish to be more involved, HTH members can serve on various committees such as
Guiding Circle,
Grants, Communication and Program Committees.
Q: What if I'm not
able to attend the March voting meeting?
A: There will be four giving
circle meetings per year, and voting will take place at the
March Meeting. If you are not able to attend the meeting,
especially for our “snow birds” who winter in Florida, rest
assured you will be able to vote by proxy.
Q: How can I get more
information about HTH?
A:
You may contact The
Community Foundation at 419-425-1100 or any of the people listed
below. You may also
click here
to view our membership brochure.
Executive
Guiding Circle
Mary
Beth Hammond, Chair
P.J. Milligan, Vice-Chair
JoAnne Ingold
, Secretary
Beverly Fisher,
Treasurer
Julie Anderson, Grants Committee Chair
Rindy
Crates, Program Committee Chair
Pam Lather, Communications Chair
Karen Cline, Member-At-Large
