How long has 100 Women Who Care Toronto East been in existence?

We are a new organization founded in May 2013 by Torontonian Wendy Breau, who was immediately drawn to the idea after reading about the many 100 Women Who Care groups that have sprung up in the United States since 2006 and in Canada since 2012.  Wendy has attended meetings of the Toronto Central chapter, which was the first Canadian 100 Women Who Care organization, and has been in contact with the founders of other Canadian chapters.  We hope the idea expands to other Toronto neighbourhoods and other Canadian cities!

Which charitable organizations are eligible for consideration by the group?
At this time, in order to be considered at a meeting, the organization must be based in the Greater Toronto Area, preferably serving the East side, and it must be a registered not-for-profit or charitable organization able to provide tax receipts for donations.   It must be previously established (no start-ups).  No national or international charities, programs or organizations will be considered at this time as the current focus is on contributing to our local community. 
Is my donation tax deductible?
Yes, as only registered not-for-profit and charitable organizations will be sponsored by the group.  Checks are written directly to the charitable organization and NOT to 100 Women Who Care Toronto East.  Tax receipts will be issued directly by the charitable organization.   

How is the organization that receives the group donation chosen?
A member who has signed the Commitment Form can put the name of a local organization into the hat for a random drawing at the meeting. The organizers of the meeting will collect the names of the organizations from the members as they arrive. At random, three organizations will be selected from the hat. The nominating members will be asked to come up and give a short 5 minute presentation as to why the organization they are nominating should receive the donation and then spend 5 minutes for Q & A. We encourage members to participate by submitting the names of local, needy, charitable organizations!
What if I cannot attend a meeting?
If a member cannot attend a meeting she can do one of two things: send in a blank, signed cheque with a trusted friend to the meeting (preferred) or to the meeting organizer or check the website/meeting minutes or contact one of the organizers to find out which charity was selected. The member can then send in a cheque to one of the organizers where we will send it to the charity on the member’s behalf.

 Can I just send the donation to the charity myself?
Because the goal of 100 Women Who Care Toronto East is to make a large donation on behalf of the whole group, the answer is no. We want to be able to support this endeavor and give $10,000+ dollars at a time to make a large impact in our community with each member's donation being part of the larger donation. This is the power of joining forces!  We also need to be able to track your donations so that you get credit for the donation and remain eligible for submitting charities and voting at meetings.
How long do the meetings last?
Meetings are intended to be very short and no longer than 60 minutes. That having been said, there is the opportunity to socialize after the meeting. 
Can I bring a friend to the meeting?
Of course you can! We are always seeking women who care!  However, in order to vote she will need to sign a Commitment Form and become a member. Otherwise she is free to observe and contribute a donation if she likes.

Does any of my donation go to administration costs of 100 Women Who Care Toronto East?

Absolutely not!  100 Women Who Care Toronto East is organized and operated entirely by volunteers.  Our meeting space has been graciously donated by The Balmy Beach Club.  100% of the money raised at our meetings goes directly to the selected organization!