Giving Circles

I just read an article about the Women's Giving Circle of Howard County. The Circle is an electronic fundraising mechanism which operates via email to 1,000 women and asks them to give what they can when a request comes along. They focus on helping women overcome dire situations. Since 2003 they have helped over 37 women and their children through gifts totaling $25,500. This is a wonderful way for individuals to practice philanthropy and get connected to others. Sometimes charitable gifting can feel detached. You ask yourself, "Who am I helping?" In this way you can choose when, how much and for whom. The requests are personal. While the grants do not solve the fundamental problems causing the situations, one-time emergency needs are met in a way that "democratizes" philanthropy.