Chicks with Checks, a social and philanthropic organization that is redefining networking for women, now offers licensing opportunities nationwide. The successful program, launched in Charleston, SC in 2006, is loosely based on the increasingly popular giving circle concept; however Chicks with Checks is a conduit for charitable giving and social networking rather than a charitable entity itself.
“Chicks with Checks introduces women to a variety of local nonprofits in a fun social setting, and provides an easy and inexpensive way to lend support,” explains Anne Newell, founder of Chicks with Checks. “Giving circles maximize giving power, but Chicks with Checks also maximizes the power of awareness. We want women to learn about the positive things happening at the grass roots level in their community. It’s hard to support a good cause if you don’t know about it. And we want it to be fun without the stress of major event planning or donor cultivation.”
Chicks with Checks invites women to a monthly Party with a Purpose. Members and guests enjoy social and networking opportunities over a glass of wine or cup of coffee while that month’s featured beneficiary, a local non-profit, shares their mission conversationally. There is no rigid networking structure and no formal presentation. For Chicks with Checks members, their donation is already included in their monthly dues, while guests pay an amount similar to what they would have spent on an evening out. “Everyone benefits and everyone has a good time,” claims Newell. Women make a positive impact while enjoying a fun night out. The featured beneficiary receives a donation and reaches a new audience without the hassle of planning an event or campaign. And the host venue is exposed to new customers while supporting their community.
“We’ve had numerous calls from women excited about this idea who want to replicate it in their own communities, so we have created a licensing opportunity in response.” Newell says. “Whether she wants to add a home-based business as a stand alone or to compliment what she is already doing, whether she wants to network differently or simply give back to her community, Chicks with Checks can provide a woman with a means to do good and have fun while earning an income herself.” The new licensing package provides two options. The Basic License allows the licensee to build a single chapter in her community while the Business Builder License allows her to build her own chapter and also recruit chapter owners in other communities. For more information visit http://www.chickswithchecks.org
