Dear Giving Circle members and friends,
This has been such a busy and productive year for us, that it’s hard to believe that we’re just moving into summer! We’ve accomplished so much this year but are also continuing to move ahead full steam with our 2023 initiatives and planning for 2024. We also have big news to share on several Giving Circle transitions.
But first, I just have to revisit our wonderful Annual Voting meeting held on May 18. We had over 130 members and guests who registered, which shows amazing support for our mission and supporting organizations doing great work in Philadelphia. Thank you to everyone who attended! And special thanks to Carol Williams, Chair, and all the members of the Grants Committee.
We are so proud to award our four $30,000 grants to 12+, ASAP, Kensington Soccer Club and YASP. Information on all these incredible organizations can be found on the Giving Circle’s website. We also hope to be able to provide opportunities to volunteer with these organizations and will keep you posted. Additionally, we were so happy to have the funds this year to provide Recognition Awards of $4,500 each to the following three finalist nonprofits for their time and commitment to our selection process: Artwell, Girls on the Run and Horizons at Green Street Friends.
Now on to our other updates. First, our big news! All good things must come to an end, and I’ll be stepping down as the Giving Circle Chair. Phyllis Bookspan and Kriste Lindenmeyer have agreed to take on the leadership roles as the new Co-Chairs of the Giving Circle. Both Phyllis and Kriste bring great experience and background to the Giving Circle and are excited about the opportunity to move our mission forward. The entire Executive Council will be involved to ensure a smooth transition and determine the timing of their assumption of their new positions.
And there’s more! Barbara Lissy and Kathy Gosliner are transitioning their responsibilities leading the Membership Development Committee to Sharon Kestenbaum. Sharon has years of experience in development and will be a great addition to the Giving Circle leadership team. I want to thank Barbara and Kathy, who have led this Committee for over 3 years and did a phenomenal job growing the Giving Circle and bringing our membership and fundraising to new levels. With the support of the Executive Council, they are currently working diligently on transitioning their roles to Sharon and determining the support needed as well as the timing of this transition.
Please join us in welcoming all these new amazing leaders!
Finally, with 2024 right around the corner, we’ll be concentrating once more on our Strategic Plan, and will provide updates as decisions are made. For example, we’ve decided that the awarding of 2024 grants will have a focus area. This change will make it possible for us to specify the area of need to be addressed by our grant, and also design educational programs that inform our members, including the grants committee, about this particular challenge facing women and children in Philadelphia.
We are always looking for new leadership and participation in various areas, so please keep your eyes posted for more information on current needs. We so appreciate everyone who agrees to step up and take on more active roles with our Committees, so that we can continue to do our best to achieve our mission of using collective giving to improve the lives of women and children in Philadelphia.
Our members are our most important resource. We have so much planned for 2023 and 2024, and we welcome your participation in any way that works for you.
With appreciation,
Linda Senker, Chair, TTN Philadelphia Giving Circle