ABOUT US
Not-For-Profit Status
The GCLW is a not-for-profit 501(c)(3) organization. Our application for that status was approved by the Internal Revenue Service in November 2011. Donations to the GCLW are, therefore, fully deductible for federal and state income tax purposes (to the extent permitted by law).
What is a Giving Circle?
A giving circle is a community of people who combine their philanthropic giving and typically donate it to not-for-profit organizations consistent with the giving circle’s mission. Giving circles vary in size and structure. All giving circles offer members a chance to learn more about community issues and the impact of their philanthropy.
Being a part of a giving circle is an active, team approach to philanthropy. Participants in the giving circle join with like-minded individuals to determine how their gifts are distributed. However, a giving circle is more than simply writing a check to a charity – it combines the giving power of all of its members to jointly selected recipients, resulting, for instance in a $5,000 group gift rather than a $250 individual gift.
What organizations do we support?
The GCLW was created with a mission of making grants of donated funds to not-for-profit organizations providing frontline hunger-relief to lower Westchester County residents who are hungry or at risk of hunger. Recipients of our grants are typically soup kitchens and food pantries. We have also, upon occasion, made grants to pre-schools through a “Green Thumb” program that brings fresh produce to children.
In the future, we may consider other organizations that serve the food insecure such as low-income day care and adult care centers; homeless shelters, battered women, mentally ill and HIV/AIDS patients; residential treatment centers; Kids Cafes; and Alternative- and Rapid-Distribution Sites.
What criteria do we use in making grants?
We limit potential recipients to not-for-profit organizations that meet all standards governing the safe handling and distribution of food to the hungry, whether run by volunteers or paid staff. These standards include food handling/sanitation, equitable distribution, record keeping, fiscal responsibility, and an organizational structure that allows for oversight and accountability. All programs must distribute food to the ill, needy or infants and have proper facilities for storage, food handling and distribution.
How much money does each GCLW member contribute?
The GCLW has a minimum annual membership level of $250. We certainly accept all contributions below that amount, but not for full voting memberships. Annual contributions from members have ranged from $250 to more than $5,000. Each member has one vote, regardless of the amount contributed.
GCLW grants to Frontline Hunger Relief Organizations
The vast majority of grants to Front-Line Hunger organizations are made in coordination with Feeding Westchester. GCLW deposits funds in Feeding Westchester accounts designated for each of our grant recipients. Those recipients then draw down on these funds to receive food items from Feeding Westchester. In some cases, GCLW will make a grant directly to a Front-Line Hunger organization for the purposes of purchasing items such as kitchen equipment.
What is the general structure of our Giving Circle?
We generally utilize an informal operating structure. The members of the Circle annually elect a Board of Directors responsible for management of the Circle. We also have a Grant Committee responsible for evaluating and recommending grantee organizations for grant awards. The Grant Committee does the bulk of the work of our Giving Circle. All grants are subject to approval of the full membership of the Circle at our annual meeting. Every member of the GCLW is invited to serve on the Grant Committee. Whether or not serving on the Grant Committee, all members can go on site visits.
What commitment level – duration and intensity – is desired?
- No commitment is required beyond one year. Of course, we hope that members find the GCLW engaging and worthwhile and will decide to remain a member for years to come.
- Members are not obligated to participate on a committee or do anything more than write a check once a year. We welcome their participation in whatever way time allows.
How are the GCLW’s operations funded?
GCLW is a volunteer-led organization with no paid employees or overhead. All donations are dedicated to Hunger-Relief. Our legal and accounting services are currently provided on a pro bono basis. Our operating expenses, limited to items such as postal mail box, bank account fees, are nominal.
How do I get more information?
If you would like more information about the Giving Circle of Lower Westchester or would like to be added to our mailing list, please email board member Paul Warhit at paulwarhit@gmail.com.
Please take a look at the Feeding Westchester’s website for information on the many programs they operate to address this issue in Westchester County: www.feedingwestchester.org.