When a group of neighbors comes together with a shared commitment to helping others, a relatively small individual contribution can make a big difference. That is the idea behind 100 Who Care Valencia Lakes Giving Circle, which has donated more than $160,000 to local nonprofits since its founding in 2021.
The organization recently selected Senior Sunshine Series as the recipient of its 2026 first-quarter donation, awarding the organization $6,600. The check was presented June 11 at the Valencia Lakes Clubhouse to Senior Sunshine Series founder Jim Blackwell and his partners. Members of 100 Who Care Valencia Lakes gathered for the presentation and celebrated the impact their collective contribution will have on local residents in need.
Blackwell and the Senior Sunshine Series provide protein to local food banks and other nonprofits by donating large quantities of chickens. The organization also creates care packages for people experiencing homelessness. Blackwell recently shared with the giving circle that its donation allowed Senior Sunshine Series to significantly increase its chicken purchases for local food banks and expand its care packages.
The giving circle was founded by Valencia Lakes resident Karen Corbin in April 2021 and has grown from 21 members to 69, with nearly 70 members currently involved. The concept is simple. Members meet quarterly, hear presentations from three member-nominated nonprofits and vote to select the organization that will receive their collective donation. Members pledge $100 per quarter, or $400 annually.
With up to 100 members, the organization can provide as much as $10,000 to a local nonprofit each quarter.
There are no board members, bank account, administrative fees or overhead expenses. Volunteers help coordinate the group, allowing 100 percent of members’ donations to go directly to the selected nonprofit.
The giving circle recently celebrated its fifth year and selected Magnified Voices as its second-quarter recipient. The Wimauma organization will receive the group’s next donation.
Valencia Lakes residents interested in joining can contact Corbin at kscorbin1@gmail.com or visit www.grapevine.org/giving-circle/KXMhmP/100-Who-CareValencia-Lakes.
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