I think the biggest question the founders of a giving circle need to be clear about is, “What Is Our Vision?”
Practically speaking, your vision guides the giving circles actions and direction helping you answer questions like, “Who do we donate to?” and “How do we donate?”
More importantly, though, your vision inspires. First, it inspires you. Why is all the effort and work of running a giving circle worth it? Why do I bother with getting people to donate with me? Believe me, it’s easier to just find one organization and donate to them whenever you feel like it by writing them a check. So, what’s your big WHY that will help you find the time and energy day in and day out run this circle???
Secondly, it inspires your members. Why should they bother belonging to this circle? Why should they donate at all? Why through you? What will you accomplish that they want to be a part of.
The clearer you are about this vision and the more adept you are at communicating it to people, the more people will want to be a part of what you do. People want to be inspired. They want to be a part of something bigger than themselves. You can help them do that!