
Fundraising 101
What Is a Giving Circle?
A Giving Circle is a collective of individuals who pool their financial contributions to support a shared mission.
Giving Circles emphasize community, shared values, and collective impact.
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Why Start a Giving Circle?
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Giving Circles allow supporters to:
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Multiply impact through collective giving
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Build community around sickle cell advocacy
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Support long-term, sustainable programming
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Engage peers in meaningful philanthropy

Who Can Start a Giving Circle?
Anyone passionate about advancing survivorship equity in sickle cell disease can start a Giving Circle. Giving Circles may be led by individuals, families, workplaces, faith groups, or professional networks.
How to Start a Giving Circle
Define Your Circle’s Purpose
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Identify why you want to start a Giving Circle.
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Decide which programs or focus areas resonate most with your group.
Recruit Members
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Invite 5–20 individuals to join your circle.
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Share clear expectations around giving level and participation.
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Determine a suggested or minimum contribution amount.
Register and Launch Your Giving Circle
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Complete the Giving Circle Registration Form.
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Choose a name for your Giving Circle.
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Identify a primary point of contact.
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Host a kickoff meeting (virtual or in-person).
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Encourage members to invite new participants.