FAQ

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

1. Why would I want to join The Giving Circle?

The Giving Circle provides a rewarding experience for donors by creating an opportunity to make a greater difference in their community and beyond.  By pooling their resources, members are able to make a larger impact with their giving.  The more members we have, the more grant funds we have available to distribute to worthy ministries.  

2. What is the contribution amount to be a member?

The minimum grant contribution is $600.  There is also a  2:1 introductory grant contribution for new members, and a $400  junior grant contribution for members under 40. Annual tax-deductible contributions may be made in scheduled partial payments. Membership renewals are requested by AUGUST 1.  The $55 annual membership fee should be paid at the time of joining/renewing. Any gift that the Lord leads you to give over the minimum contribution amount will be gratefully accepted.  We  also appreciate stock donations and year-end gifts.  

3. Does the number of votes a member has vary depending on the gift amount?

No;  each member may cast three votes during the voting session. The 2:1 introductory contributors 'share' three votes between them.

4. How do I make my  grant contribution payment?

You can pay your grant contribution online via this website or by with a personal check -- in full, or equal installments.  The annual membership fee checks ($55) are made payable to The Giving Circle.  Grant contribution checks are made payable to The Signatry.  (See the "Become a Member")

5. When do current members renew their annual membership fee?

We request that members renew by AUGUST 1  by paying their annual grant contribution and the  annual $55 membership fee.  All members, new and renewing, have until SEPTEMBER 1 to join and pay their annual grant contribution.  

6. The Giving Circle pays The Signatry an administrative fee. Why use a donor-advised fund?

We use a donor-advised fund to maintain the tax-exempt status of your gift to The Giving Circle. In addition, the donated funds are not held in an open checking account, but are secured by The Signatry for grant distribution only. There is an annual fee of less than 1% charged to our fund, and it is reimbursed in full from the administrative fund at the end of the year.

7. Will I get a year-end receipt for tax purposes?

Yes, from The Signatry.

8. How many gatherings are held each year?

There are two annual gatherings scheduled:  the annual voting (now held virtually in October) and the Grateful Giving Gathering (in-person in November). Your attendance and involvement is encouraged and appreciated to the extent you are able.  Additional events include a choice of local  field trips and membership socials.  

9. How does an organization apply for a grant?

A 501(c)3 Christian ministry must complete the Grant Application packet by the AUGUST 1 deadline to be considered for a grant during that calendar year.  The application requires the recommendation of a current Giving Circle member.

10. What is a 501(c)3 organization?

As determined by the IRS, it is a tax-exempt status for non-profit organizations.

11. How can members participate in the grant process?

Members participate by volunteering to serve on the Grant Review Committee and by voting for the ministries of their choice.  In addition, current members are encouraged to refer/recommend ministries to apply.  

12. Can I recommend more than one ministry for a grant?

Yes. A benefit of membership in The Giving Circle is the privilege to suggest up to three qualified ministries to apply for a grant.

13. How are ministries reviewed for approval?

Following the grant application deadline of AUGUST 1, our Grant Review Committee vets, summarizes, and presents finalists to the general membership for a vote.  Any member can participate on the Grant Review Committee.

14. Are there any restrictions on what organizations can apply?

To qualify for consideration, the ministry must have a gospel focus and be a 501(c)3 organization.

15. How frequently are grants given?

Grants are distributed annually; however, ministries who have received a grant for two consecutive years must abstain for one year before re-applying to The Giving Circle.

16. How can a daughter/daughter-in-law become involved?

We welcome mother/daughter/daughter-in-law giving teams!  These 'teams'  will share a single membership and combine their votes as one member.