A special thank you to everyone who responded to the survey distributed online last March. Almost half of the Giving Circle’s voting donors submitted a survey. The executive committee always welcomes opinions about the best ways to make the Giving Circle a satisfying experience for our donors. We know the survey results do not include the opinions of everyone, but they offer some useful insights.
Why do we give?
Clearly, Giving Circle donors participate to help others. Nearly 100% reported donating to the Giving Circle because they:
“support its mission of providing grants to nonprofit organizations in the City of Philadelphia working to improve the lives of women and children,” and
“believe in the power of collective giving.”
The majority also said participating in the Giving Circle gives them the chance “to learn about issues facing women and children in Philadelphia.” More than half also liked being part of the Giving Circle because it provides the opportunity to “meet interesting and caring women.”
Who are we?
Most respondents reported living in the City of Philadelphia, but a few reside in Montgomery and Chester counties. Ninety-nine percent are over age 60, with 86 percent over age 65.
How do we participate?
Responding donors feel comfortable with communications sent via email, the online newsletter, and educational programs offered via Zoom. Nevertheless, survey respondents also overwhelmingly said that they like the mix of virtual and face-to-face events. For face-to-face events, most preferred attending events in Philadelphia, however, some were also willing to participate in events held in the suburbs.
Focus areas of interest?
Finally, the survey responses make it clear that Giving Circle donors are compassionate and well-informed about a range of difficult issues facing underserved women and children in Philadelphia. They prefer giving grants to multiple nonprofits each year rather than offering one large grant. Some of the most frequently mentioned focus areas for our annual fundraising include education, juvenile justice, women’s and children’s health and wellness, violence prevention, food and housing insecurity, domestic violence, and substance abuse.
Thank you again to those who submitted responses to the March survey. Members of the executive committee always welcome your input and help in achieving the Giving Circle’s mission to use collective giving for helping to improve the lives of underserved women and children in Philadelphia.
Kris Lindenmeyer, Giving Circle co-chair