Impact100 Garden State

Founded in 2013, Impact100 Garden State was inspired by a growing national trend in women’s collective giving. The collective giving model enables us to combine the donations of many women to award meaningful grants to local nonprofits. **Our awards have totaled more than $3 million to date.** Our members represent a mosaic of backgrounds, occupations, experiences, priorities, and interests. Together, we prove that the power of one woman multiplied by many equals an impact that can change lives **OUR MISSION** To engage women in philanthropy by collectively providing high-impact grants to nonprofits serving the counties of Morris, Passaic, Somerset, Sussex, or Union. To provide transformational funds to organizations that reach underserved populations, and to highlight unmet needs in the areas of Arts & Culture; Children & Families; Education; Environment, Preservation & Recreation; and Health & Wellness. **OUR VISION** To be a premier and diverse women-led New Jersey philanthropic organization, inspiring our members to become more engaged with their communities. In 2011, Carole Rogers had a late-night talk with a houseguest. The friend, who had already initiated a successful Impact100 chapter in Fair Hope, Alabama, suggested that Carole start an Impact100 in New Jersey. Carole loved the concept of women’s collective philanthropy and shared her enthusiasm with some friends. Before long, this group of six women had marshaled their experience in communications, finance, nonprofit grants, fundraising, data management, and event planning to form what would become Impact100 Garden State. Just over a year later, after extensive preparation, the six founders recruited their first members. One friend at a time, one coffee at a time, they shared their vision of women working together to offer transformative grants to local nonprofits. By March 2013, Impact100 Garden State had 135 Charter Members. By 2023, the organization had grown to 375 members. Though a new generation has assumed [leadership](https://impact100gardenstate.org/about-us/leadership-team/) roles, the Founders remain enthusiastic members, as committed as ever to the mission, vision, and values of Impact100 Garden State.