Membership
What makes someone a member of the Women’s Fund of Santa Barbara?
A member is simply a woman who contributes to the Women’s Fund - as either an individual or part of a group - enabling her to help select the recipients of a grants pool which is comprised of all members’ donations.
Can anyone become a member of the Women's Fund of Santa Barbara?
The Women’s Fund welcomes all women to join us. Men are welcome to make a donation but cannot become voting members. We value the perspectives brought to committee philanthropy by our increasingly diverse membership.
Do I have to be invited to become a member?
Absolutely not! Any woman who wishes to make a membership contribution is welcome. If you don't know anyone in the Women's Fund, we will be happy to help you find a group.
How much is a membership contribution for the Women's Fund?
No minimum contribution is required; however, we suggest a minimum contribution of $275. Membership contributions determine how members vote to distribute the funds collected each year. A vote is awarded for every $2,750 contributed.
There are two ways to contribute and vote:
Become a Group Member by joining with other women who together contribute $2,750 (or more) in a calendar year. Each group receives one vote for every $2,750 contribution the group has made. There is no limit to the size of a group or how much a woman may contribute.
Become an Individual Member by contributing $2,750 (or more) in a calendar year. Receive one vote on how collected funds are distributed the next spring for every $2,750 contribution a woman makes, up to a limit of four votes.
How can I contribute to the Women's Fund?
Women may contribute by using the Join or Renew forms on our website using a credit card, PayPal, or a check.
Personal and family foundation checks, IRA, and Donor Advised Fund distributions should be mailed to 133 E. De la Guerra St. #15, Santa Barbara CA 93101.
To contribute stocks, bonds, or mutual funds, please complete the Women’s Fund of Santa Barbara Securities Gift form.
When is my membership contribution due?
Your contribution is due by December 31 of each year in order to vote on the following year's ballot.
How much of my annual contribution is tax deductible?
The Women’s Fund of Santa Barbara is a tax-exempt nonprofit organization with Federal Tax ID 82-5169678. Donations to the Women’s Fund are fully qualified charitable deductions. Please consult your tax adviser or the IRS to determine if you are eligible for the deduction.
Am I a permanent member when I join?
No, membership is based on an annual contribution made during a calendar year, which makes a woman eligible to vote for new grantees in the following spring.
May I contribute to more than one group?
Yes, a woman may join more than one group. Some group members are also individual members.
If I wish to contribute as a group member but don’t have a group, what should I do?
Contact the Membership Committee and we'll help you find a compatible group or help you form your own group.
What obligations do I have if I become a member?
A member’s only obligation is to make her annual contribution. Most of our members enjoy the voting process but a few opt-outs, trusting the Research Committee to provide a full ballot of worthy projects. If you'd like to do more, we welcome members to volunteer in all areas of the organization. There are short- term and long-term opportunities to volunteer.
If I am interested or have a friend who is interested in the Women's Fund, how can we get information?
Learn more about the Women's Fund by exploring our website, emailing us or calling us at (805) 303-1205. We will be happy to send more information or to speak with you.