Giving Circles
Giving circles are a philanthropic opportunity that brings individuals together to pool their resources and collectively decide on their charitable giving.
At a community foundation, a giving circle can play a significant role in addressing local issues and strengthening the community. Members contribute to a shared fund and meet regularly to learn about local needs, discuss the impact of their donations, and make decisions about grantmaking and impact funding.
Participating in a giving circle not only amplifies the power of individual donations but also fosters a deeper sense of community among members. It democratizes philanthropy by giving each member a voice in the decision-making process, regardless of the size of their individual contribution.
Your Community Foundation works to create the space for giving circle to provide the opportunity for diverse groups of people to collaborate, share their passions for social causes, and learn more about philanthropy and the specific needs within their community. Your CFSNM provides administrative support, expertise, and guidance to ensure the giving circle’s contributions are impactful and aligned with the community’s long-term goals.
Whether you’re an experienced donor or new to philanthropy, joining a giving circle at Your CFSNM is a powerful way to connect with others, learn about local initiatives, and make a tangible difference in our community. Giving Circles allows community members to come together to create the change they want to see in the world. This way of giving enables people to increase their impact and knowledge, have fun, and connect with our communities in Southern New Mexico.
In 2025, the Community Foundation of Southern New Mexico reintroduced its giving circle, previously known as 100 Who Give, with a renewed energy and identity: Corazónes in Action. While the name took on new life, the purpose remained deeply rooted, to uplift local nonprofits through collective giving and shared purpose. It was not just a rebrand, but a reaffirmation of what community-driven philanthropy can achieve. The process itself reflects this inclusive spirit. Community members are invited to nominate organizations they believe in on social media, elevating voices and missions from across the region. From these nominations, three nonprofits are randomly selected for the final ballot, ensuring both opportunity and equity. At each event, attendees cast their votes live, transforming generosity into a shared experience. At its core, Corazónes in Action is a reminder that when people come together with intention and compassion, giving becomes more than an act, it becomes a movement.
Under the umbrella of the Community Foundation of Southern New Mexico (CFSNM), the Rainbow Fund overseen by the Rainbow Committee, serves as a vehicle for people to make a lasting impact on the quality of LGBTQIA+ life in our region. Supported by a base of individuals, families, businesses and organizations with the desire to improve southern New Mexico through CFSNM, the Rainbow Committee awards grants and seeks to provide resources to organizations that serve the LGBTQIA+ community. With the goal of improving quality of life, the Rainbow Committee awards funds and strives to make an impact in the following categories: arts and humanities, improving mental and physical health, encouraging self-awareness, recreation and addressing youth and elderly needs in southern New Mexico within the 12 counties CFSNM serves: Catron, Chaves, Doña Ana, Eddy, Grant, Hidalgo, Lea, Lincoln, Luna, Otero, Sierra & Socorro.