A new direction in women's philanthropy

The article is a case study of the highly successful and much replicated Los Angeles-based women's giving circle, Everychild Foundation. As American women's philanthropic opportunities have traditionally been limited to participation in fund-raising events, this model has demonstrated that there is a stimulating and effective alternative. Members join together, pooling brain power and yearly dues, in order to select a single annual grant in their community that will fund an innovative, replicable project for children. By leveraging their dollars, they are able to have a much more significant impact in the community than they could individually. With its democratic voting system, lack of hierarchy, and flexibility, the model is inclusive and fits within the lifestyle of busy contemporary women. Its formula has enabled its members to feel a "sense of ownership" in the organization and inspired many to venture further into the philanthropic world on their own. Its system of accountability has provided its members with the confidence that their dollars are well spent.