How did 100+ Women Who Care get started?
100 Women Who Care was started in November of 2006 by Karen Dunigan of Jackson, MI, as a brilliantly simple way to raise money efficiently and quickly for the local community. At their first one-hour meeting, each of 100 women wrote a check for $100 directly to their selected program, raising $10,000 to buy 300 new baby cribs for an organization in their city. Since then, they have grown to over 200 members and similar groups popped all over the US, UK, and Canada..
Check out the many groups of 100+ who care on the Livingston County page: http://www.100womenlivingstoncounty.org/history.html
How long has this organization been in Ventura County?
The first meeting took place April 16th, 2013.
Which organizations are allowed to be sponsored?
Organizations must be located in and serve the people of Ventura County. Non-profit status - 501(c)(3) - is required.
How is the organization that receives the donation chosen?
Members nominate programs and projects by email via this page or directly to: 100WomenVC@gmail.com
The core team vets nominations for non-profit status and consistency with the priorities determined by the local chapter. 2-3 candidates are presented and voted on by all members. Winner takes all . . . each member then writes a $100.- check directly to the chosen organization; checks are delivered as one donation.
Is my contribution tax deductible? How do I get my tax forms?
Yes, your contribution is tax deductible. Checks are written directly to the local organization. 100 Women Who Care holds no bank account and handles no funds aside from gathering and delivering checks. Documentation for tax purposes is typically a thank you letter directly from the organization confirming your contribution. PLEASE NOTE: Sponsored non-profits agree not to share individual contact information.
What is a 501(c)(3)?
501(c)(3) is an IRS designation for organizations using donated funds to provide goods and services for charitable purposes. Having this designation allows donors to write off contributions as part of their annual tax filing.
How long do the meetings last?
Since the pandemic, meetings have been suspended with the VC chapter operating via email. When meetings resume, they are intended to be very short, generally lasting no longer than 60 minutes. Members commonly gather in advance to socialize and many stay after as well.
How do I vote if I cannot attend the meeting? What is proxy voting?
Currently voting is my email, each check-writing member has one vote. Going forward, in-person meetings will also have a virtual or hybrid means for voting.
Can I just send the donation to the charity myself? Why do you have to send it on my behalf?
A 100 Women Who Care giving circle multiplies your donation 100-fold. By pooling our checks and delivering them together we maximize the impact and potential of our individual donations.
I would like to bring a friend to the meeting who is not signed up...
Absolutely! New members are always welcome. We are happy to outreach and provide a warm welcome and orientation to any woman interested in knowing more and hopefully joining the group!
