What is a Giving Circle?

A giving circle is a philanthropic group of individuals who join together to pool their resources for a common cause, while seeking to further their awareness of and engagement with that common cause.

Women Helping Women

Nellie Churchford founded Gateway Mission (then Holland City Mission) in 1908. Her love for God and passion for helping the poor and struggling began a legacy that has continued for over a century! Imagine today, a group of like-minded women continuing in her footsteps – serving and advocating for the poor and struggling. Imagine offering life – changing help to our sisters in need. The Women of Hope Giving Circle is committed to continuing Nellie’s legacy through education, engagement, and generosity. 

The Need

Homelessness among women and children in our community has reached alarming levels. Gateway Mission commits to providing gospel – centered care for our neighbors with nowhere else to turn. 

How Does the Women of Hope Giving Circle Work?

GROW – Strengthen your skills!

Participate in trainings, tours, conversations, and events provided exclusively to Circle members. Leverage what you learn to change the trajectory for homeless women. 

ENGAGE – Make a difference!

Members volunteer quarterly (or more!) through flexible and creative opportunities. These may include meal service, special events, staff support, etc. Alternative commitments can be made available for offsite or at-home service. 

GIVE – Invest in women!

Members give an annual gift to the Women of Hope Circle fund. Each year, circle members vote to allocate those funds to various grant proposals submitted by shelter staff. These are projects outside of the normal yearly operating budget—providing creative solutions to issues that are unique to the women’s shelter. We announce the winning projects at our Night of Celebration, which is a beautiful evening of generosity and excitement that bridges the gap between the Women of Hope Circle members and frontline staff. Together, members can multiply their impact.

What are Member Expectations?

Members commit to learning and engagement opportunities at the Gateway Women and Children’s Center and give an annual gift. There are two giving levels that can be paid out over the whole year:

• $500 (one vote)
• $1000 (two votes)

MISSION: To provide a Christ-centered avenue for women to actively engage with  Gateway Mission Women and Children’s Center through finances, time, and talent.

VISION: To see each Women of Hope Circle member equipped to be a productive volunteer and advocate for every woman and child we serve.

“She opens her arms to the poor and extends her hands to the needy”

Proverbs 31:20