“Dreams are the seeds of change. Nothing grows without a seed, and nothing ever changes without a dream.”
This quote by Debby Boone inspired a group of 13 women to join together and form a women’s giving circle in the spring of 2009. They wanted to impact their community now and in the future by identifying what needs in Georgetown were not being met and providing a philanthropic path to address those needs. The name they selected represents the idea of many small seeds being planted to grow into something strong that benefits it’s surroundings. Seeds of Strength was born. The giving Circle provides the opportunity for individuals to come together, combine their dollars in a shared fund and collectively decide where to give the money to through a voting process. The Voting day is powerful! Each member is eligible to vote for the nonprofit agency they want to receive funding out of those narrowed down through the grant process, which allows members to learn about the non-profit agencies in the community and the needs they fulfill. The first year, in June of 2010, five non-profits were awarded $55,000. In 2011, Seeds of Strength grew and $91,000 was distributed to seven local nonprofit agencies.
Our education events and gatherings teach how philanthropy works and how we each have the opportunity to share in the joy of giving.
Seeds of Strength is hosted by The Chisholm Trail Community Foundation as a donor-advised fund and receives 501 (c) (3) status as a nonprofit organization.