Your philanthropy: If you want to go far, go together - The New York Community Trust

February 9, 2023 | By The New York Community Trust

Your philanthropy: If you want to go far, go together

FREE BOOKS: WellMet Philanthropy recently supported Brooklyn Book Bodega, a grassroots organization dedicated to supporting literacy in its borough. Above, the group hosts an event in front of Barclay’s Center in downtown Brooklyn.

At The Trust, we believe in the power of communal giving. By giving together, New Yorkers can raise more funds for nonprofits, spark transformative change, and even foster lasting friendships.

Giving circles are a great way to do this. The members pool their dollars and decide collectively what to fund. Joining a giving circle—or creating one of your own—is simple. If there is an issue you’d like to work with others to fund, such as education or climate change, let’s talk! As a founding member of a new circle, you’ll be able to recruit friends, family, and colleagues to join you and benefit from the expertise of our grantmaking and donor support staff.

The Trust’s largest giving circle, WellMet Philanthropy, is dedicated to helping nascent grassroots nonprofits in New York serve their communities. Over 25 years, the circle has made more than $3.4 million in grants to nearly 200 organizations. WellMet members (women of all ages and backgrounds) work together to recommend grants to promising direct service organizations that are often not yet on the radar of larger funders. Members meet with nonprofit leaders, connect them with resources, and stay in touch. Many of the members provide additional support to the grantees through their individual donor-advised funds.

“It’s incredibly fun and energizing to work with smart, interesting, committed women who love New York and want to get outside their comfort zone,” said Joan Rosenthal, the president of the group. “I think this work has a real impact. Through these organizations we can make a difference in people’s lives.”

Our Giving Circles

Giving circles are powered by people of all ages and backgrounds, and ask for different levels of commitment of time, talent, and treasure. Join one of our circles below, which welcome new members, or start your own giving group!

The Giving Collective

People under 50 years old of all genders funding local grassroots organizations. Recent grantees include New York Abortion Access Project, Release Aging People From Prison, and Open Hearts Initiative. Minimum annual contribution: $1,500.

The Rising Board

A recently founded circle of young entrepreneurs, investors, and financial services professionals. Minimum annual contribution: Any amount.

WellMet Philanthropy

A women’s collective making transformative grants to small community-based nonprofits within New York City. Recent grantees include Asiyah Women’s Center, the Urban Wild, BK ROT, and the Brave House. Minimum annual contribution: $5,150.