About

 We are a group of Santa Monica residents committed to making meaningful local impact through collective giving.

Our model is simple:

  • Quarterly one-hour meetings

  • Member nominations of local nonprofits

  • Three presentations per meeting

  • Anonymous vote

  • One organization receives the full pooled donation

We operate independently and are part of the broader 100 Who Care Alliance of giving circles. Our goal is to move significant capital quickly and thoughtfully to organizations serving our community.

This circle was founded by Dana Coffman and inspired by his mother, who started her own 100 Women Who Care initiative. Dana is a social impact practitioner, longtime resident of Santa Monica, and serves on the city’s Urban Forest Commission.

Why A Giving Circle?

FAQs

What organizations can be sponsored?

1

To be considered at a meeting, the organization must be based in and serving Santa Monica. The organization must be a non-profit entity recognized as a 501(c)(3), registered in California, and must have been previously established (no start-ups).  No national or international charities, programs, or organizations will be considered as the contributions are to stay 100% in the community.

Is my contribution tax-deductible?

2

Yes, your contribution is tax-deductible if made payable to a 501(c)(3) organization. Donations are made directly to the local organization, NOT to 100 People Who Care. Please contact your tax adviser or visit the IRS website for further information.

How long are the meetings?

3

Meetings are intended to be very short, generally lasting no longer than 60 minutes. We do ask that you arrive early to check in.

Can I just send the donation to the charity myself?

4

The goal of the 100 People Who Care organization is to make a large donation on behalf of the whole group. We want to be able to support this endeavor and give $10,000+ at a time to make a large impact in our community, with each member’s donation being part of the larger donation.

Do I have to be a Santa Monica Resident?

5

No, you do not have to have a permanent address in Santa Monica; however, you must still sign the membership agreement and acknowledge that funds raised will be donated to organizations serving Santa Monica.