Give
Our Next Generation Fund provides an innovative alternative for those who aren’t ready to establish a Foundation fund of their own. This giving circle allows you to pool your resources with others in the community and put your philanthropic dreams into action.
About Next Gen
Next Gen is a charitable fund, or giving circle, for singles and couples interested in philanthropy. Along with determining grants in the community, Next Gen hosts at least two social gatherings each year and provides volunteer opportunities to support the organizations funded during the grant cycle.
Since the year 2000, the Next Generation Fund has made grants totaling over $183,000 to Gaston non-profits making a difference in the lives of children and their families. Annual gifts to the Fund from members grows the Next Generation Fund endowment to help you make a far greater impact on the community than any of us can make on our own. You'll have a seat at the table when funding decisions are made and can sponsor grants for worthy organizations.
Join the Next Generation Fund today by filling out a Connect Card (email completed card to Elizabeth Patton) and make an initial contribution. Contributions may be made online or by check (mail to: PO Box 123, Gastonia, NC 28053). If you have any questions please call or email Elizabeth Patton. Every gift made to the Fund goes directly to the community in the form of grants. The Next Generation Fund suggested (tax-deductible) annual gift; $75 for individuals and $125 for couples. For those of you who have renewed or just joined us, thank you for your support.
Our interests
In December 2020, the Next Gen awarded 4 grants to nonprofits serving youth for the 2020-2021 year. Many Next Gen members participated in online scoring of applications.The grants are awarded as follows:
- Least of These: $3,000
- Make A Wish: $1,750
- Junior League: $1,750
- Dream Center: $1,500
The Next Gen Advisory Board had also voted back in the Fall to fund a team for the Education Foundation’s “Are you smarter than a Gaston County 5th grader” contest at the $1,000 level.
Since the beginning, the Fund has granted over $192,000 back to the community.
Join the Next Generation Fund and take an important step in beginning a practice of philanthropy. Contact us for details.
"Before joining Next Gen, we sometimes wondered if our individual gifts were enough. As Next Gen members, we no longer question ourselves. Our giving is now accompanied by others in the circle and we know our group gifts are truly making an impact!"
- Christa Heilig, Chair, Next Generation