Ripple Impact NW, a new non-profit organization aimed at expanding the breadth and depth of Clark County’s philanthropy, was officially launched this month.
Founded by local entrepreneur and philanthropist Heidi Johnson Bixby and based in downtown Vancouver, Ripple Impact NW was founded to connect local nonprofits with people seeking donations.
“Ripple Impact NW helps people better understand the needs of the community, how nonprofits work, and their own values and motivations, so they make more informed decisions and make more informed decisions. You can create or develop your own practice of philanthropy, the consultant said in a news release.
As a philanthropist, giving can be a challenge, Kojis said. How do you find out what your biggest needs are in your community? Why do two groups sometimes appear to be doing the same thing? And how do you know if an organization is legal?
These are the types of questions that RippleImpactNW wants to help local philanthropists answer. To that end, the organization’s consultants provide the resources to develop a donation plan, whether individuals, families, or businesses donate $ 100 million or $ 1 million.
A small dedicated team was brought together by Bixby to help launch the Ripple Impact NW, and the organization’s five board members brought a wide range of non-profit experiences to the table.
The consultant does not provide financial or tax advice or invest in donors. Instead, they help them meet their respective future donors on their donation journey and connect them with local nonprofits in line with their goals, Kojis said. ..
This is achieved through three core programs: Legacy Giving Consulting, Discovery Sessions, and Giving Circles.
Legacy giving consultations are available to individuals, families and businesses who want to engage and influence the community. The consultation form is available online at rippleimpactnw.org/consult-form.
The Discovery Session is an interactive half-day educational event that covers the basics of a variety of philanthropic activities, from understanding nonprofits to the tax implications of donations. Guest speakers cover a wide range of topics, and each participant leaves the event with a personal donation plan. Anyone who wants to learn more about philanthropy is encouraged to participate. The next Discovery Session will take place April 30th from 9:30 am to 12:30 pm at Ripple Impact NW’s headquarters, 275 W. Third Street, Suite 400. If you are interested in attending, please fill out the discovery session inquiry at rippleimpactnw.org/. Discovery-Workshop-Contact us.
Giving circles gather philanthropists to pool resources and have a significant financial impact on community issues. There are multiple giving circles each year, each dealing with one community issue. Participants in each giving circle will meet in 5-6 sessions to discuss topics and learn more from guest speakers. This year’s topics include children’s mental health, nature, and the homeless. For more information on Giving Circles, please visit rippleimpactnw.org.
“By working with donors, sponsors and nonprofits, Ripple Impact NW will make a positive difference in Clark County,” says Kojis. “Collectively, we grow with knowledge, understanding, skills, and-I believe-compassionately. That is the secret of philanthropy.”
