The Anthem Giving Circle (AGC) is a remarkable collective of women dedicated to making a tangible difference in their local community. Through their mission of pooling time, talents, and resources, AGC focuses on supporting families in need, providing essential assistance like rent, utility bills, and medical expenses. Their annual fundraising event, "Purses for a Purpose," plays a pivotal role in this mission, helping to generate vital funds that directly impact the lives of many.
AGC's outreach extends beyond financial support; they contribute over $5,000 in gift cards to local elementary and secondary schools each year, ensuring that students and staff have the resources they need.
Since the last Purses for a Purpose event, AGC has distributed more than $46,000 to assist over 75 families, benefiting a total of 185 individuals. "It's amazing what a small group of determined women can achieve," they emphasize, showcasing the collective power of their members.
While quantifying impact can be challenging due to the confidential nature of their grants, the numbers tell a compelling story. AGC has provided rental assistance, utility bill payments, and even aid for car and home repairs, demonstrating a robust approach to community support. Their contributions to local food banks amount to over $3,000, alongside countless volunteer hours dedicated to various charitable events.
Engagement with the community is at the heart of AGC’s philosophy. Members actively participate in a variety of local events, from the Health and Hope Fair to school supply drives, emphasizing the belief that "it takes a village" to create meaningful change. They also strive to raise awareness about their work through local media, and they seek out potential new members to expand their impact.
Launched in 2010, Purses for a Purpose started with a handful of purses and a small group of women. Today, it has evolved into a major fundraiser that draws over 250 attendees, featuring 160 designer purses and raising an impressive $51,000 last year alone. This event has become a community staple, eagerly anticipated by many.
AGC operates without rigid daily responsibilities; instead, members volunteer according to their interests and availability. Some lead the planning for Purses for a Purpose, while others assist with community needs, such as providing food for local pantries.
As AGC continues to grow, so do the challenges they face. The needs within the community are significant, and the organization, currently comprising around 30 women, is striving to expand to its by-laws limit of 40 members. This growth is crucial to ensuring they can meet the increasing demands for support.
The primary funding source for AGC remains Purses for a Purpose, supplemented by contributions from the Charity Classic hosted by Anthem Country Club and Rotary. Strong partnerships with organizations like the Foothills Food Bank and St. Vincent de Paul enhance their outreach efforts, making a broader impact in the community.
The Anthem Giving Circle exemplifies how collective action can lead to transformative change. Through their unwavering dedication and active community involvement, AGC not only supports those in need but also inspires others to join in their mission. As they continue to grow and adapt, AGC remains a shining example of empowerment and compassion in action.