Catalyst Giving Circle

Catalyst members have awarded tens of thousands of dollars to a variety of programs meeting important needs and addressing difficult challenges in the community.

Grass Roots Giving

The Catalyst Giving Circle brings people who care about Berlin, New Britain, Plainville and Southington together to experience philanthropy first-hand. With a modest donation of only $50 for first-time “Discovery” members and $250 for annual renewals, and $250 for business memberships, members (individuals and couples) pool their resources to:

  • Learn about topical issues facing our communities.
  • Jointly determine grants to nonprofit organizations tackling those issues.
  • Meet new people who share a commitment to our communities.

Catalyst presentation at Stanley Black & Decker.

Three times per year, Catalyst Fund members gather to learn about a member-chosen issue facing their community, and to consider funding requests from charitable organizations addressing the issue. The year concludes with a collective vote to award a $15,000 grant to a chosen grantee.

Community foundations across the country have created such funds to encourage broader participation in the philanthropic process. Participants enjoy the educational, social and interactive nature of this “giving circle” and many continue to be involved for years. Community Foundation Catalyst Fund members have awarded more than $175,000 to a variety of programs meeting important needs and addressing difficult challenges in the community.

For more information about how you can become a part of the Catalyst Fund, please call or e-mail Joeline Wruck, Director of Grants & Initiatives at 860.229.6018 x307.

Mark Your Calendars! 2023 Catalyst meetings will be held:

  • May 1 social from 5-7:30 at Coles Road Brewing, 817 Farmington Avenue, Berlin CT
  • TBD
  • September 24 5:30-7:30 Hospital of Central CT 100 Grand Street New Britain lecture rooms 1 and 2
  • November 13, Shuttle Meadow Country Club 5:30-7:30 51 Randeckers Lane, Berlin CT

Catalyst Fund Brochure and Membership Form

Catalyst Fund Grant History

Thank You to Our Catalyst Business Sponsors!