We are often asked how Hestia works and what has made Hestia successful.
You can learn more through reading about our history and impact, and also by reading about how we operate below.
Intimate, synergistic group of
no more than 55 women
Equal vesting
of all members
Multi-year commitment
to the group
Consensus decision-making with emphasis on trust in empowered committees
Active partnering with and support of grant recipients throughout the project year
Opportunities for varying levels of participation
No additional fundraising solicitations within the membership
Monthly meetings with guest speakers from philanthropic, community, government, and grantee organizations. These invited experts deepen our understanding of issues, policies and programs affecting low-income communities in our area.
An empowered Grants Committee, consisting of eight rotating Hestia members, represents the interests of the larger group and takes the lead in reviewing proposals and conducting site visits.
Site visits by Hestia member teams are made to all applicant organizations prior to funding decisions.
Our Commitees
Hestia encourages all members to join, participate in, and eventually lead a committee. It is highly recommended that each member serve on the Grants Committee at some point to fully understand and appreciate the mission of the Hestia Fund.
Committees evolve over time according to identified needs of the group and currently include:
- Steering Committee
- Membership Committee
- Grants Committee
- Research Committee
- Education Committee/Speakers Bureau
- Finance Chair