Women Of Hope - Giving Circle

A giving circle is a philanthropic group of individuals who join together to pool their resources for a common cause, while seeking to further their awareness of and engagement with that common cause.

Nellie Churchford founded Gateway Mission (then Holland City Mission) in 1908. Her love for God and passion for helping the poor and struggling began a legacy that has continued for over a century! Imagine today, a group of like-minded women continuing in her footsteps – serving and advocating for the poor and struggling. Imagine offering life – changing help to our sisters in need. The Women of Hope Giving Circle is committed to continuing Nellie’s legacy through education, engagement, and generosity. 

Homelessness among women and children in our community has reached alarming levels. Gateway Mission commits to providing gospel – centered care for our neighbors with nowhere else to turn. 

GROW – Strengthen your skills!

Participate in trainings, tours, conversations, and events provided exclusively to Circle members. Leverage what you learn to change the trajectory for homeless women. 

ENGAGE – Make a difference!

Members volunteer quarterly (or more!) through flexible and creative opportunities. These may include meal service, special events, staff support, etc. Alternative commitments can be made available for offsite or at-home service. 

GIVE – Invest in women!

Members give an annual gift to the Women of Hope Circle fund. Each year, circle members vote to allocate those funds to various grant proposals submitted by shelter staff. These are projects outside of the normal yearly operating budget—providing creative solutions to issues that are unique to the women’s shelter. We announce the winning projects at our Night of Celebration, which is a beautiful evening of generosity and excitement that bridges the gap between the Women of Hope Circle members and frontline staff. Together, members can multiply their impact.

Members commit to learning and engagement opportunities at the Gateway Women and Children’s Center and give an annual gift. There are two giving levels that can be paid out over the whole year:

MISSION: To provide a Christ-centered avenue for women to actively engage with  Gateway Mission Women and Children’s Center through finances, time, and talent.
VISION: To see each Women of Hope Circle member equipped to be a productive volunteer and advocate for every woman and child we serve.

At the 2023 launch, each member made three commitments:

Give a financial gift, volunteer their time, deepen their understanding of homelessness.

One year later, the circle gathered for the 1st Annual Night of Celebration. The outcome of their efforts was powerfully showcased. And the combined achievements were nothing less than inspiring! Highlights included:

Members donated over $37,000 to fund essential needs identified by shelter staff. These contributions supported various initiatives, including childcare items and security upgrades, enhancing the safety and well-being of everyone in the building. Women taught Bible studies, mentored students, and offered listening ears to hurting people. Teams organized special events for Gateway guests, such as a Valentine’s Day Dinner and Fall Harvest Party. Prayer warriors stormed the heavens on behalf of those who did not know how to pray for themselves. Grandmothers rocked babies. Encouragers sent countless cards and baked goodies to cheer our frontline staff members.

By working collectively, Women of Hope continues to create a strong support system for both staff and guests alike. We believe—and have witnessed this year—that together, we can do more to bring hope and create lasting change!