Nonprofits have helped so many people in the community this past year; now it’s time to help them in return. Brazos Valley Gives is back this year on Oct. 27 and is expanding to all seven counties of the Brazos Valley.
Powered by the Community Foundation, Brazos Valley Gives is a single day of giving where anyone can be a philanthropist by donating to support their favorite local 501(c)(3) nonprofit, since the minimum donation is only $10.
“So many nonprofits had to cancel their fundraisers this year,” says Molly Watson, co-chair of Brazos Valley Gives. “We can fill in the gaps of events that were canceled.”
This second-annual event, which will now be hosted the fourth Tuesday of every October, hopes to build on the momentum from its inaugural year where it raised $363,686 plus more than $25,000 in additional incentive gifts, says Watson.
“Last year was pretty incredible,” says Watson. “879 donors were first-time donors to a nonprofit. The community really came together to be really philanthropic.”
This year, the goal is to raise $375,000 and have 125 nonprofits participate from all over the Brazos Valley.
“We’re really fortunate that we’re an online event,” says Watson. “We’re used to doing things online, so [COVID-19] doesn’t really affect the event except that we hope people can still reach down deep. I think people are ready to support and get involved. It’s an inclusive way all the community can be involved and meet the quality-of-life needs nonprofits provide.”
To support, log on to brazosvalleygives.org from 5am to 11pm. on Oct. 27 and discover all the participating nonprofits. All gifts pass through directly to the nonprofits except for a 5.2% fee, which the donor can opt out of. Alternately, checks and cash can be dropped off at The Eagle or Brenham Chamber of Commerce on Oct. 27 from 7am until 7pm.
Early giving kicks off Oct. 1, and any donations made during the early giving period will count towards that charity’s giving goal.
“St. Vincent de Paul raised the most money [last year] and had a particular project that they wanted donors to contribute to,” says Watson. “If you need equipment, have a unique program you want to put money behind, or have a particular need, that’s an easy way to rally donors.”
Brazos Valley Gives benefits nonprofits by giving them a platform and promotion, allowing all nonprofits to be supported regardless of size and funding. Watson hopes nonprofits will take advantage of the opportunity to get their supporters excited about fundraising.
“Days of giving provide cities and businesses platforms to support the nonprofits they love,” says Watson. “Brazos Valley Gives strengthens nonprofits, empowers donors, and builds community. Putting community first by giving where you live is critical to sustain our nonprofits.”
Individuals, businesses, and organizations interested in providing matching funds or a sponsorship can contact Community Foundation President Patricia Gerling at brazosvalleygives@gmail.com for more information.
Though the Community Foundation powers Brazos Valley Gives, it is not a fundraiser for them as 100% of donations benefit participating nonprofits. Donors choose and give to the nonprofit of their choice.
“Brazos Valley Gives is our gift to the nonprofit community,” says Gerling.
