NET IMPACT Philadelphia

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Facebook.com/IMPACTPhiladelphia

IMPACT Philadelphia is a giving circle with a Donor Advised Fund at The Philadelphia Foundation. It mobilizes emerging leaders for a special annual grants campaign aiding nonprofits making a difference in Philadelphia through social media, email, events and other activities.

2011-2012 Priorities

Through May 15, 2012, IMPACT Philadelphia was working to support organizations that:

• Address food shortages for vulnerable populations while also educating Philadelphians on the importance of providing children with nutritious food options.

The widespread shortages of food in general, and particularly healthy options, create “food deserts” in many of the poorest neighborhoods in Philadelphia. This unacceptable reality has created a pervasive health issue in many parts of our city.

• Provide workforce development and/or vocational training programs.

Too many Philadelphia residents are unable to secure employment simply because they don’t have a GED or the basic skills required to earn a living wage. This issue has become even more critical during these difficult economic times. Workforce development and adult education programs are important components in helping low-income residents provide for their families.

About IMPACT Philadelphia

IMPACT Philadelphia mobilizes, supports and educates the next generation of leaders, innovators and philanthropists.

Method

We achieve our mission through:

• Advocacy – bringing a public voice to issues of concern to our group members
• Fundraising – committing our financial support to the causes that matter to us and inspiring others to participate
• Providing grants – sustaining effective nonprofits that make a difference

We are proof that philanthropy is fun, rewarding and important!

IMPACT Philadelphia empowers its members to make informed decisions and contribute to the community in valuable ways. We value innovation, community, justice, equality, integrity and leadership.

Who’s Involved

New members join our 500-plus member Facebook page daily. The Action Team includes 50 young professionals. The overall effort has been spearheaded by a dedicated and talented 10-member Steering Committee of emerging leaders who volunteer their time and expertise.

Vision

IMPACT Philadelphia will be a nationally recognized vehicle for philanthropy, harnessing the expertise and charity of emerging leaders from across the Philadelphia region, and inspire all young professionals to become leaders within their own communities through awareness of important issues, civic engagement, advocacy and philanthropy.

IMPACT Philadelphia will inspire civic participation through philanthropy for years to come, and will ensure that Philadelphia is made up of safe, thriving and diverse communities, strengthened by a dynamic and robust nonprofit sector.

Goals

• To provide inspired young professionals opportunities to be engaged with one another through group decision-making and philanthropy.
• Educating emerging leaders and the broader public on issues of importance and fundraising for nonprofits making a difference (Sharing knowledge).
• Making a lasting impact in Philadelphia by forming partnerships with grantees (Creating shared values).
• Responding to emerging issues facing communities throughout Philadelphia (Community development).
• Raising awareness of problems facing under-represented groups throughout the Philadelphia area (Advocacy).

• Supporting organizations in creative ways with modest resources (Increasing volunteerism and advocacy).
• Identifying and assisting young leaders across the socioeconomic spectrum in order to empower and engage them in philanthropy. (Leadership development).