Tewksbury Giving Circle Board: ‘We Recognize the Need at Home’

100+ People Tewksbury updates bylaws to refocus on local nonprofits

As Tewksbury’s 100+ People Who Care giving circle approaches its three-year anniversary, the board has proposed several bylaw updates that reflect the desire of many members to focus more on Tewksbury-based nonprofits that serve a significant number of residents. 

“While we retain a regional focus, we understand that there are a number of local and in-town nonprofits that are experiencing exceptional need,” said Chair Brent Conway. “And now that we are entering our third year, group favorites like Into Action Recovery will be eligible to be back on the pickerwheel.”

When a nonprofit receives the $10,000 Impact Award, it becomes ineligible for nomination for three years. Beginning in June, members may nominate previous winners including Alternative House, Hidden Battles, and Into Action on a rolling basis.  

Under the new bylaw, at least one Tewksbury-based nonprofit will present at each meeting. The group is also looking to partner with local groups to hold one service project per quarter for members, such as stocking the shelves at the Community Pantry. To select and coordinate those efforts, a new Community Service Chair position is being created. Anyone interested in that position can reach out at 100PeopleTewksbury@gmail.com.

The board is also seeking two sponsors for the March 18 event to donate $250 to two of the featured nonprofits.

Thank you to December sponsors Advisors Living Real Estate and Kyoto Japanese Steakhouse.

In addition, the group is aiming to be greener by eliminating envelopes that end up being thrown away at the end of the night and reusing the “big checks” for photos. There will still be small envelopes available for anyone who wants one.

“Given that more than half of members have joined the 100+ People Grapevine to donate electronically, the time seems right to streamline the donation process,” said membership coordinator Tricia Elwell. 

Any Tewksbury resident can join the 100+ People either individually or as a team and nominate a nonprofit. The more nominations, the more likely it is a group will be selected to present, so local nonprofits are encouraged to ask their volunteers and donors to nominate them.

The 100+ People Who Care Tewksbury was founded in 2021 as a way for the community to come together and make significant change through impact giving. 

“Since our first event in June 2021, our members have donated more than $130,000 to nonprofits in our region, and more than 50 organizations have been nominated or participated in our meetings, increasing their reach to a broad, active philanthropic community,” said at-large board member Jayne Wellman.

The next Impact Giving Night will be Monday, March 18 at 3 Amigos Bar & Grill at 1777 Main St. Social hour begins at 6 p.m., followed by presentations at 7 p.m. The pickerwheel spins to select the three nonprofits that will be featured on Thursday, Feb. 15 at 7 p.m. All members are asked to check their nonprofit selections and contact Lorna Garey to make updates. 

Learn more at the 100+ People Who Care Tewksbury website or Facebook page. Questions? Want to sponsor? Contact the board at 100PeopleTewksbury@gmail.com.