|
BWGC FAQs
MEMBERSHIP
Who are members of the Circle?
Women of all ages from diverse backgrounds who want to participate in a group whose mission is to improve the lives of other women and their families in greater Baltimore. View our list of current members.
To join the Circle, please download the membership form and follow the instructions provided.
If I am interested or have a friend who is interested in the Circle, how can we get information?
You are welcome to learn more about the Circle by contacting the Baltimore Community Foundation. A packet of information will be mailed upon your request.
How much of my annual $1,100 contribution is tax deductible?
All of it.
How is my contribution used?
$1,000 will be granted in the year following your payment. $100 is used to cover administrative costs, such as meeting, mailing and printing costs, related to Circle activities and committees.
How long is my commitment when I join?
The initial commitment is for two years; after that, membership renews year to year. If you wish, you may pay for more than one year at a time.
When is my contribution due?
Annually by December 31.
In what ways may I make a payment?
- By check: make the check out to the Baltimore Community Foundation, with the Baltimore Women’s Giving Circle appearing in the memo line.
- By Visa and Master Card only,anies.
By transfer from another charitable fund, i.e., at BCF or the Associated: request payment from the organization holding your fund.
- Stock gift: please contact Andrea Wesol at awesol@bcf.org to let her know to expect a stock gift. View stock transfer instructions.
CIRCLE MEETINGS
Does the BWGC meet as a group?
There are four Full Circle meetings a year. Three meetings have presentations by experts on the issues affecting women and children followed by a group discussion. At the fourth meeting BWGC members vote on the grants made from Circle funds. Please view the BWGC calendar.
May members bring a guest to a Full Circle Meeting?
Yes, to three of the four meetings. The May Full Circle Meeting is for members only as that is when grant decisions are made. Please be sure when you RSVP to give your guest’s name as well as yours. Please meet or accompany guest to the meeting.
COMMITTEES
Whom do I contact if I have a question about my committee?
The committee’s chair or co-chair.
Do I have to join a committee?
No, not at all. But it is a great way to get involved and learn about the Circle.
May I join more than one committee?
Yes, but we recommend you first carefully consider the time commitment of each.
May members bring a guest to a committee meeting?
No, committee meetings are for members of the Circle only.
GRANTS
How are grants awarded?
Circle members are involved in all aspects of the decision making process associated with grants awarded by BWGC. Teams of Circle members review grant proposals received and conduct site visits to those organizations that have submitted particularly outstanding proposals. Team members report to the full Grants Committee on their recommendations for funding. The Grants Committee reaches consensus on funding recommendations and presents them to the full BWGC membership at the annual May meeting for review and approval.
How can I participate in the grants review process?
Sign up to serve on the Readers Subcommittee of the Grants Committee.
How many grants have been awarded?
Since its inception the Circle has awarded a total of $304,764 to thirty-three non-profit organizations in the Baltimore area. View the list of recent grants awarded.
How does an organization receive information about applying for a grant?
Circle members can request that an organization receive an RFP (request for a proposal) by calling Dion Cartwright at 410-332-4172, ext. 144. You can also email her.
 |
