Across the country a quiet revolution is happening in the world of philanthropy. Individuals, families, and even small businesses are finding new ways to make a bigger difference, not by giving more, but by giving together. This is the essence of collective giving—a growing movement where people pool their resources to support causes they care about and create measurable, long-term impact.
Unlike traditional giving, where a donor gives independently, collective giving focuses on community decision-making and shared priorities. Giving circles, workplace philanthropy groups, and neighborhood funds are just a few examples of how this model is taking shape. In Idaho, this spirit of collaboration is evident through efforts like school supply drives coordinated by local businesses, housing support pooled by church groups, or agent-led campaigns that support shelters and food banks. When many people contribute even modest amounts, the results can be transformational for small, local nonprofits.
One of the most powerful aspects of collective giving is that it allows people to feel more connected—not just to the cause, but to each other. It turns charitable giving into a shared experience where stories, ideas, and values are exchanged. It builds trust, increases accountability, and often provides a stronger sense of purpose for participants. Whether you’re a realtor rallying your colleagues for a community fundraiser or a group of friends starting a giving circle, these grassroots efforts foster a culture of generosity that’s both scalable and sustainable.
Join a Collective Giving Group Near You
If you’re inspired to get involved, consider joining one of these active giving circles:
In Idaho:
- Idaho Women’s Charitable Foundation (IWCF) – Based in Boise, IWCF empowers women to pool their resources and make impactful grants across the state.
- Women’s Giving Connection – Southern Idaho – Focused on the Magic Valley region, this group encourages women to become educated philanthropists through collective grant-making.
- Moscow Women Giving Together – Serving the Palouse area, this circle brings members together to support local nonprofits through informed, collective giving.
- Idaho Partners for Good – While not a traditional giving circle, this organization embodies collective philanthropy by gathering donors to impact a wide network of nonprofits throughout Idaho.
- Idaho Community Foundation (ICF) – ICF hosts various community funds and affiliate foundations, allowing residents to pool resources for local projects and needs.
- Impact Club Boise – A dynamic group where members contribute $100 quarterly, hear pitches from local nonprofits, and vote to award substantial donations. Since inception, they’ve donated over $500,000 to area organizations.
In Western Montana:
- Women’s Giving Circle of Missoula County – This group empowers women and non-binary individuals to lead in philanthropy, collaboratively supporting a wide range of community needs.
In Washington:
- Washington Women’s Foundation (Seattle) – A pioneering giving circle model enabling women to pool resources and make large, strategic grants to nonprofits across the state.
The beauty of collective giving is that it’s not about the size of the donation—it’s about the power of coming together. In a time when many challenges feel too big to face alone, this model proves that our greatest strength lies in our unity.
