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In the News

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Masala Suncoast Segment Nov 18, 2023

Masala Giving Circle: Living the legacy of Black women's philanthropy

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PRESS RELEASE: Masala Giving Circle awards over $75,000 in grants to support the African American community in Sarasota and Manatee Counties

Sarasota, FL - Award recipients included Habitat for Humanity in Manatee and Sarasota Counties; the Sarasota African American Cultural Coalition; Meals on Wheels; Minorities in Shark Sciences, ASALH Freedom School; All Faiths Food Bank; Take Stock in Children; and Good Samaritan Pharmacy & Health Services. 

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Giving Circles Bring Together Like-Minded Philanthropists to Help Those in Need

The last 10 years have seen the creation of a number of giving circles—organizations that require an annual minimum donation and work together on a membership basis.

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Masala Sponsored FUNducation Holds LEGO Robotics Open House

On Tuesday, August 30, 4 pm - 5 pm learn about the LEGO Robotics and Coding programs coming soon to the library for kids in grades 2 - 8. Join us at the Betty J. Johnson North Sarasota Public Library located at 2801 Newtown Blvd. Sarasota. FL 34234 to learn more,

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Masala Giving Circle creates positive changes in the African-American community

Caryl Shefield discusses the impact Masala Giving Circle has had in the community with the Suncoast View. 

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Black Women in "Masala Giving Circle" Are Living History of Black Philanthropy   

Masala Giving Circle's Marilyn Thompson discusses the history of blank philanthropy and the significance of August 28th to black philanthropy with Empowering Voices host Renee Gilmore. 

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Beyond Black Philanthropy Month - A Challenge to Our Community

Masala Giving Circle discusses Black Philanthropy Month.

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Masala Giving Circle Donates over $2K, Books, Toys & Other Items

On December 19, 2020, the Masala Giving Circle partnered with Dollar Dynasty to distribute toys, books, school supplies as well as other items to children in the Newtown community. 

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Giving Circles Make a Collective Impact on Local Nonprofits

Marilyn Thompson was a newcomer to the Sarasota area in 2013. Like many moving here, she knew she wanted to get involved in the community but wasn’t sure where to put her time and resources. 

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Masala Giving Circle Accepting Applications

The Masala Giving Circle, a group of community-minded African American women, was established to make a positive impact on the community by presenting grants to non-profit organizations. 

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Spicy Women Come Full Circle

Masala means spicy and this group of women are certainly spicing things up in the community. Masala Giving Circle represents 69 members who all share a common thread in wanting to create positive change in African American communities through philanthropy. 

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Nearly $20K to be Awarded to Organizations 

On Wednesday, May 15, from 6 p.m.–7:30 p.m., the Masala Giving Circle, a philanthropic organization of African-American women, will hold its annual grant awards ceremony at the Community Foundation of Sarasota County.

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Baynes: African Americans giving back

At a time when many Americans are thinking harder about racial issues and equity, members of the Marsala Giving Circle and others have been commemorating Black Philanthropy Month in August.

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