PNW Environment - 2022

September 2021 - November 2022

We often hear from donors that environmental issues feel urgent, but also overwhelming. With so many different crises, from wildlife endangerment to global warming, and thousands of organizations to partner with, getting started can feel daunting. This circle was specifically designed to help the curious and compassionate become committed changemakers.

By forming a circle with other donors, members turned their passion into action. Led by Brighton Jones’ philanthropic specialists, members learned how to drive impact (vetting nonprofits, strategic grantmaking, assessing giving methods), while exploring the local environmental conservation landscape (from fieldwork to policy reform). Each member’s experience, perspective, and engagement was invaluable to the goal of the circle: To drive strategic support toward Pacific Northwest environmental causes.

The circle met 14 times over the course of 12 months beginning in Fall 2021. Each group member contributed $10,000 that was directed to nonprofit organizations of their choosing, plus $500 to cover speaker honorariums and learning materials.

The group was facilitated by the Brighton Jones Richer Life Foundation with frequent guest speakers and group discussions. Continued dialogue is supported through an online community sharing platform.

Most of our sessions were on-site visits to nonprofit organizations’ fieldwork so that we could immerse ourselves in understanding the work being done to sustain and repair the beautiful Pacific Northwest.

Session 1 - September 23, 2021 | Orientation At Arboretum

Session 2 - October 21, 2021 | Forterra at South lake Union

Session 3 - November 18, 2021 | Puget soundkeeper alliance at Longfellow Creek

Session 4 - December 9, 2021 | Justice Outside via zoom

Session 5 - January 27, 2022 | Vertue lab at university of wa

Session 6 - February 17, 2022 | Climate impacts Group via Zoom

Session 7 - March 21, 2022 | Washington Environmental Council

session 8 - April 27, 2022 | Conservation Northwest

Session 9 - May 18, 2022 | Impact investing with brighton jones

Session 10 - June 2022 | Trust for public land

Session 11 - July 21, 2022 | SR3 in des moines, wa

Session 12 - October 5 | Book Club + Action & Commitment Plan via zoom

Session 13 - October 21 | Naturebridge at National Nordic Museum

Session 14 - November 30 | Final session