Impact100 SRQ Raises a Record-Shattering $663,000 for Local Non-Profit Organizations
Impact100 SRQ revealed that they had raised a record-breaking $663,00 in collective donations, which will fund six transformational grants of $110,500 each to be awarded to local non-profits this giving year. These women changemakers have an inclusive culture and a unified mission to realize and impact unmet community needs. I had the pleasure of speaking with several women from Impact100 SRQ to understand the personal motivation of giving through their lens.
Selection Process and Financial Stewardship
Betsy Friedman, Nonprofits Director-Impact100 SRQ, brings extensive experience from a career in the non-profit world to Impact100 SRQ. “Every single grant we have awarded has made a lasting sustainable difference. The Focus Area Committees (FAC) process functions with the highest level of integrity. Applications go through an extensive review, including FAC and financial reviews. Women dig deep embracing discourse determining which grant to award, making us good stewards of money. It’s a rigorous process, and it sets us apart while demonstrating a commitment to our community,’ says Betsy.
Impact100 SRQ United in Collective Goals
Kathy Paulsen, an Impact100 SRQ member since October 2019 and current Co Focus Area Director, knew she had an opportunity to make a difference when she joined. She is thrilled to witness the collective cultural giving nature and loves seeing the talents of women realizing their potential to impact non-profits locally. “I’m honored to be a part of this exhilarating organization,” says Kathy, her voice exuding excitement. I then spoke with Sara Winer, Co Focus Area Director, her enthusiasm for Impact100 SRQ was wonderfully contagious. “I’m giving back, but I’m getting so much more back from being involved; I feel fulfilled and have met so many amazing women. I always walk away from the meetings feeling excited and inspired. I love being a part of this,” she says.
Finding Joyfulness through Generosity
Lisa Silverstein, a new member, says, “I can’t believe how Impact100 SRQ is growing and that there are so many wonderful, intelligent and philanthropic women living in one place who are willing to donate money and participate in making a difference. I had tears in my eyes when they announced the amount collected.” While many organizations in the non-profit arts world are retooling to maintain programming, and food pantries are experiencing increased demand for services throughout the nation, Impact100 SRQ is harnessing collective giving, and they are unstoppable. Impact100 SRQ remains true to its mission and is determined to meet community needs, one transformational grant after the other. Impact100 SRQ epitomizes a relationship-heavy culture of inclusivity. Women organically unite in the gratifying experience of collective giving that facilitates joyfulness, fulfillment, and purpose to life. Witnessing the collaboration and generosity from local women magnifies my gratitude to call Sarasota my home.
Learn more about Impact100 SRQ
“You can’t help everyone, but….everyone can help someone.”-Dr. Loretta Scott
Photos from Impact100 SRQ