One of the greatest joys of being involved in this sector is that there is an increasing number of people who care sincerely about philanthropy, our world, and their unique way of expressing their talents and getting involved. It just keeps snowballing!
So I am excited about this new group at Full Circle Fund (http://www.fullcirclefund.org), which is a group of hot young Silicon Valley thinkers, all involved in strategic, high engagement philanthropy. They form groups based on an issue; determine a strategy; invest; advise and volunteer; and evalute results. Sometimes its direct service, sometimes policy change, sometimes structural chnage… each investment opportunity is uniquely different. What’s so energizing is how these tight teams of people really care and dig in to create change!
I’m launching the new Global Funding Circle at the Full Circle Fund (http://www.fullcirclefund.org). We’re getting the top young global enthusiasts of the Bay Area to strategize about the best ways to alleviate global poverty. We’re then investing in a strategy that we believe will produce an innovative way to a pproach global poverty, one that can be scaled by larger foundations and investors. If you haven’t heard of our group, you are welcome to apply to become a member – we’d love to have you!
Here’s my welcome letter below, to give you an idea.
Dear Full Circle Fund Members,
It is with great pleasure that we formally announce the Global Economic Opportunity Circle! Never before has our world faced a more compelling time to get involved in our global community. With a challenging financial crisis resounding throughout developed and developing worlds, the GEO Circle is designed to alleviate global and local poverty.
Our talented GEO Members are currently designing innovative strategies revolving around economic opportunities: Our goal is to uplift financially disenfranchised members of our community through an innovative, sustainable strategy. On that note, we’re thrilled to announce that the GEO Circle has nearly 15 members and more than 100 GEO attendees interested in our work!
The challenge ahead is clear: Nearly 70% of our world is living on less than $800 annual income. In fact, in some countries, people living on $2 per day are considered “upperclass,” while those earning ten to fifty cents per day are considered impoverished. Locally, we have many individuals who are but a paycheck away from being on the streets, or homeless trying to attain a part-time job.
But the world is changing, and so are our leaders. With great optimism we note that international giving has increased 67% over the last five years, and corporate international giving has increased 72% over the last five years. 44% of adult American volunteer. We are resoundingly positive that our GEO members thoughtful strategy and hands on operational help will result in global impact, and, serve as a model for our philanthropic community. We expect to reflect nothing less than the standard of excellence that Full Circle Fund (http://www.fullcirclefund.org) already embodies.
Join forces with us as we launch the GEO Circle with great enthusiasm. We welcome you, your insights and philanthropic investments as the GEO Circle launches at the Full Circle Fund Forum!
Warm Regards,
Pamela Hawley
Co-Chair of Global Economic Opportunity Circle Co-Chair of Global Economic Opportunity Circle
Founder and CEO
Nice writing. You are on my RSS reader now so I can read more from you down the road.
Allen Taylor