A group of 13 women who pooled their philanthropy two decades ago have now directed more than $220,000 to nonprofits serving women and children across Plymouth, Canton, Northville, and Western Wayne County.
Giving Hope, Women's Giving Circle celebrates its 20th anniversary in 2026. In 2006, a core group of 13 women rallied about 65 founding members to launch the circle, and the organization has awarded grants every year since, according to a Canton Public Library spotlight published Saturday, Aug. 1.
"Over the last 20 years, we've given over $220,000 in grants," said Karen Hanchett, the group's chair, in the library's "Know Your Org" feature.
Where the money goes
Giving Hope targets smaller organizations that might not attract large foundation dollars. Grant areas include literacy programs, domestic violence shelters, food and clothing for school children, preschool for low-income families, library support, and mental health services.
In its most recent cycle, the circle awarded $13,000 across five recipients:
- Salvation Army — $2,000 for summer day camp scholarships for low-income families
- A school radio station — $2,000 for equipment upgrades
- New Day Foundation — $3,000 to help families fill financial gaps during cancer care
- Growth Works — $3,000 for a family stability program serving youth in the juvenile justice system
- St. Vincent DePaul — $3,000 for its homeless program
Other past recipients include Canton Goodfellows, Plymouth Goodfellows, Starfish Family Services, Foster Closet of Michigan, and the Miracle League of Plymouth, according to Local Impact Alliance grant records.
How it works
The model is simple. Each applicant must request a specific dollar amount for a specific purpose and must serve women and families in Western Wayne County. The Local Impact Alliance, Giving Hope's parent organization, vets applications. The grant window runs from March to April, with awards made in early summer. In 2026, the circle has approximately $15,000 available to distribute.
Giving Hope also maintains an emergency fund that Local Impact Alliance can tap when an urgent community need surfaces.
Events and membership
Beyond grants, the circle holds four events each year: a Winter Social, Spring Charity Event, Summer Social, and Fall Annual Meeting, according to Local Impact Alliance's event calendar. Non-members are welcome to attend.
One signature fundraiser is "Pass the Purse," where a purse is set out at gatherings and guests drop in cash donations. The designated charity receives whatever is collected and can spend it however needed.
The group's 20th Anniversary Celebration is scheduled for Wednesday, Oct. 21, alongside its annual business meeting. A Dixboro Event follows on Wednesday, Dec. 2.
Hanchett said the organization is actively recruiting members who want to help fund local charities serving women, children, and families. Residents interested in joining can contact Local Impact Alliance at (734) 495-1200 or visit localimpactalliance.org/contact.
Upcoming Giving Hope events
- Wednesday, Oct. 21 — Business Meeting and 20th Anniversary Celebration
- Wednesday, Dec. 2 — Annual Dixboro Event
