💡What is a Giving Circle?

A Giving Circle is more than just philanthropy; it’s a movement. It’s where generosity meets community, and individual contributions are amplified through collective action. Giving circles bring people of all backgrounds together, giving levels, and passions to pool resources, share ideas, and make a greater impact than anyone could alone. It’s giving with heart, purpose, and power.

🌱 How We Began

In 2016, the Jewish Federation of Greater Portland launched the Women’s Giving Circle, joining a national wave of Jewish giving circles inspired by a bold vision: to empower women as changemakers in their communities. Portland was one of just 32 communities selected to participate in Amplifier Giving’s pioneering Jewish Giving Circle initiative—an honor that marked the beginning of something extraordinary. 2025-2026 marks our 10th Women's Giving Circle Cohort!

🌍 A National Movement

The roots of this movement trace back to Natan, a visionary force in Jewish philanthropy. In 2014, Natan launched Amplifier Giving—now part of the Jewish Federations of North America (JFNA)—with the support of the Charles and Lynn Schusterman Family Philanthropies. Their mission? To create a vibrant network of Jewish giving circles that inspire generosity, innovation, and community.
 

Today, Amplifier Giving connects circles like ours to a global network of changemakers, nonprofits, and host organizations, all driven by Jewish values and a shared commitment to making a difference.

🎯 Our Mission

The Women’s Giving Circle is dedicated to expanding opportunities and choices for Jewish women and girls. Through strategic, thoughtful grantmaking, we aim to uplift lives, empower leaders, and create lasting change. We believe in the power of women—as funders, decision-makers, and visionaries.

💖 Our Core Values

Equality (B’tzelem Elohim)
Every voice matters. We are a community of equals, united by shared values—not status, wealth, or background.

Respect (Derech Eretz)
We listen deeply and speak thoughtfully. Our circle is a safe space for honest, respectful dialogue.

Inclusion (Eilu v’Eilu)
We celebrate diversity and welcome differing perspectives. Through shared inquiry, we grow stronger together.

Partnership (Areyvut)
We collaborate with humility and purpose, funding initiatives that reflect our collective vision and values.

🌟 Join the Women’s Giving Circle – Empower. Connect. Give. 🌟
New Member Enrollment Opens Every August!
Be part of a dynamic community of women making a meaningful impact together.

💬 What to Expect

🗓 Six Inspiring Gatherings | August – May
Connect with passionate women, hear from changemakers, and help shape the future of our community.

💝 Two Powerful Gifts
Your generosity fuels real change:

Circle Commitment:
Choose your level of impact — from $720 to $2,500, paid in full by October 2025.
 

Annual Campaign for Community Needs:
A minimum gift of $360, pledged by June 30, 2026, and fulfilled by December 31, 2026.

🧭 Your Voice Matters

Final Deliberations Meeting
Can’t attend? No problem! Just:

Submit your team’s site visit insights in advance.
Trust and support the collective decision of your fellow members.

💫 Why Join?

Be Heard: Every member has a voice in where the funds go.
Be Inspired: Learn from nonprofits and fellow philanthropists.
Be Connected: Build lasting friendships with like-minded women.