The Everychild Foundation, established in 1999, has a rich history rooted in the collective efforts of women dedicated to making a substantial impact on the lives of children in need. Founded by Jacqueline Caster, the foundation was born out of a desire to create a more efficient and impactful philanthropic model. Recognizing the challenges and inefficiencies in traditional charitable giving, Caster envisioned an organization where women could pool their resources to fund significant, high-impact grants. Over the years, the foundation has grown in both membership and influence, becoming a beacon of hope and a model for similar initiatives worldwide.
At its core, the Everychild Foundation operates as a women’s giving circle, a collaborative philanthropic model where members contribute a set amount annually to a collective fund. This pooled fund is then used to provide large, single-purpose grants to nonprofit organizations working to improve the lives of children. Each year, members engage in a rigorous selection process to identify the most promising and impactful projects. This democratic and inclusive approach ensures that every member’s voice is heard, and the chosen projects reflect the collective values and priorities of the group.
The foundation’s giving circle model not only amplifies the impact of individual donations but also fosters a deep sense of community and shared purpose among its members. Women from diverse backgrounds and professions come together, united by a common goal of making a difference. This collaborative environment encourages members to engage more deeply with the issues at hand, learn from each other, and leverage their collective knowledge and expertise. The sense of camaraderie and mutual support within the foundation is a testament to the power of collective action.
Since its inception, the Everychild Foundation has awarded over $22 million in grants, supporting a wide range of initiatives aimed at addressing critical issues such as education, healthcare, and social services for children. Each grant is carefully selected to ensure it provides a sustainable and meaningful impact, often transforming the capabilities and reach of the recipient organizations. By focusing on high-impact grants, the Los Angeles giving circle ensures that its contributions lead to lasting and significant changes in the lives of children and their families.
Today, the Everychild Foundation stands as a shining example of how women’s giving circles can drive positive change. Its success is a testament to the power of collective philanthropy and the difference that dedicated, passionate individuals can make when they come together for a common cause. As the foundation looks to the future, it remains committed to its mission of improving the lives of children and continues to inspire other philanthropic groups to adopt similar models of giving. Through its innovative approach and unwavering dedication, the Everychild Foundation has truly redefined what it means to give back.