Methods

We provide many learning opportunities for members and the community to enhance their effectiveness as community leaders.

Impact Circles

• Grantmaking Process: In order to choose which organizations to support, Full Circle Fund members meet with community leaders, study and evaluate the relevant social issues, and develop an understanding of best practices.
• Theory of Change: Working as a team, Circle members develop a comprehensive document that analyzes pertinent issues and guides grantmaking.

Learn more about our Circles.

Experiential Learning

• Participating on teams: Members work collaboratively on a long-term project with defined deliverables in order to learn about the nonprofit landscape and see first-hand the impact that engaged philanthropy can have on the community.
• Leading grant teams: Those who lead project teams hone project management and group leadership skills while forging lasting community and business connections.
• Driving grant project success: All team members learn to creatively leverage individual resources and connections to reach grant milestones.

Member Collaboration

• Getting to know Community Fellows: Full Circle members from the business community learn about the nonprofit landscape from Community Fellows and thus gain a deeper appreciation for challenges faced by our grant partners.
• Exposure to new ideas and new people: Given the diversity of our membership, Full Circle Fund provides exposure to range of perspectives and alternative approaches to problem solving.
• Leading Action Teams: Members can have a substantial impact on the success of Full Circle Fund by participating in an Action Team that supports the essential operational needs of the organization.

Educational Events

• Learning from inspiring guest speakers: Most Full Circle Fund events feature speakers on critical social issues such as public policy, civic engagement, and key societal trends.
• Attending annual Member Retreat: This event provides an exciting opportunity for members to lead fruitful discussions on the issues and strengthen relationships with other members.

Annual Forum

The annual Forum inspires individuals to become leaders in the Bay Area community by showcasing bold models for creating sustainable social change, increasing awareness of Bay Area social issues, and providing opportunities to get involved immediately.

The Forum attracts hundreds of potential and emerging leaders. Read more about the 2006 and 2007 Forums.

"Full Circle Fund members are true leaders in the field, thoughtfully evaluating the landscape and making investment decisions in organizations that have great potential and that can benefit from the talent and networks that the members bring. This is an exciting organization to support!"

JaMel Perkins

Perkins Family Foundation