I was introduced to the Giving circle concept when I was recruited to join the New Mountain Climbers (NMC) in Montgomery County, Virginia. This circle was supported by The Community Investment Network (CIN), a national group of independent giving circles that meet annually to share, provide technical assistance, and to raise awareness of the role of giving circles in improving the social, economic, cultural and (even) spiritual conditions of local communities.
The NMC work included assisting 10 other giving circles in SW Virginia. This inspired me so much that when I relocated in South Carolina, I helped form the first African American giving circle in the state. Leading by example, we hope others will create their own circles and become Communities Organized to Leverage their Assets (COLA) of time, talent and treasure for the benefit of all.
Check us out at: www.colagives.com