FAQ
The info you're after
I am interested, but want more information. How can I meet the Collective?
We would love to meet you and learn about your passions and talents.
We will offer informal information sessions, please subscribe to the website to receive updates about upcoming events.
What can I expect when I join Collective 365?
When you become a member, you will receive an email confirmation of your application and a welcome letter. You will begin receiving invitations and announcements about events (educational, networking, & service).
How long does my membership in Collective 365 last?
Membership is rolling. However, if you wish to become a voting member that requires a yearly donations of $50 or more.
Do I have to reside in DC/MD/VA to join?
No. Collective 365 seeks members from anywhere. We are currently recruiting within the DMV (DC, Maryland, Virginia) as we target these areas for giving season consideration.
What is the time commitment?
You can decide how much time you want to invest. In an effort to make an informed vote, we encourage members to participate in educational meetings, service projects & networking events.
Meetings and networking events are held quarterly. Service projects are held throughout the year.
Can I make a donation without joining?
Yes. All contributions are welcome and help us grow our community-based grants and expand our ability to support Black & Brown communities in the DMV area.
When is the contribution due? Do I have to pay it in full?
The membership fee must be paid in full by March 1 of the grant cycle year.
You have the option of paying in installments at your own pace.
Why are there three options for membership?
Philanthropy is for everybody and we want to ensure that which is why membership is free. However, if you decide to make a contribution just know that we value 100 volunteer hours just as we do a $100 donation.
Is it possible to make an anonymous donation?
Yes, on the "Make an Investment" page you have the option of selecting anonymous donation.
We understand and value that some folks may just want to support the mission of Collective 365 without being a voting member. Every donation helps!
I want to support, but I do not have the funds to do so. What are my options?
Your desire to be involved is needed and appreciated. If you are unable to commit financially at this time, we still invite you to become a general member. As a general member you volunteer your time and talents through our "capacity building" component of the grant application.
Collective 365 will be offering "capacity building" in addition to grant funding for applicants. Capacity building is the Collective's way of connecting members to the work in the community. For example, you may be a social media marketing guru and would be willing to provide "x" amount of hours to develop social media evergreen graphics to a grant applicant.
What type of individuals/organizations does Collective 365 support?
The Collective seeks to support individuals, non-profits, for profits, and groups that have a focus on improving and sustaining communities of color through the following focus areas:
• Health
• Education
• Social Justice
• Workforce Development
What is "giving season"?
The giving season is the time where members of the Collective learn, serve, and invest in Black & Brown communities.
The giving seasons begins March 2 of each year and concludes March 1 of the following year. For example the 2023-2024 giving season begins March 2, 2023 and ends March 1, 2024.
How are grants awarded?
Every member of the Collective is asked to contribute $100 or $50.
The member contributions are used to create grants. The number of members who make a contribution determines the grant amount awarded each year. Every member, regardless of contribution level, gets a vote. Throughout the "giving season", grant applicants will have an opportunity to share the issues and needs impacting their community. The Grants Committee will review grants applications and make recommendations to the voting membership.
If I join or donate, can I still apply for a grant?
Yes. If you join the Collective and/or make a general donation, you may still apply for a grant. Members of the Collective are not eligible to vote in the same giving season they apply, but we believe in giving and getting.
Is my contribution tax-deductible?
Collective 365 is recognized as a public charity under Internal Revenue Code 170(b)(1)(A)(vi) and has 501(c)(3) status. Donations to Collective 365 are deductible. Donors should consult their tax advisor for questions regarding deductibility. The Collective 365 EIN is 85-0950603. A copy of the Collective 365 determination letter is available upon request.
Is Collective 365 registered with GuideStar / Candid.?
Collective 365 has Gold Transparency on Candid. formerly known as GuideStar. Click here to view our profile on Candid.
I have more questions, what should I do?
Feel free to send an email to collective365info@gmail.com and we will get back to you within 24-48 hours.