Doctors in most medical specialties spend a significant amount of their time interacting with people, yet medicine is considered one of the loneliest professions. I’ve heard this at several surprising points in the past few years from physicians I would not have suspected felt isolated. Over these last years, there have been increasing opportunities to find meaningful connections with other physicians through online communities, some of which have in-person gatherings and meetings.
Finding these groups, where making authentic connections with doctors who share your interests, hopes, goals, or gripes, can be incredibly powerful. One way to find these fulfilling connections is through giving circles—people coming together to discuss and decide where to make a pooled charitable gift. The magic of giving circles is that you can make a difference in the world by supporting causes you care about most while also enriching your own life with deeper connections and a sense of belonging. Together, you can amplify your positive impact, making the act of giving both deeply rewarding and exceptionally effective.
Your benefits in joining
Soul-nourishing connections and community. Giving circles provide a space where individuals can come together with shared values and goals, fostering deep connections and a shared sense of purpose. These groups often become tight-knit communities where members support each other both inside and outside of philanthropic efforts. The relationships you build in a giving circle are often authentic, lasting, and meaningful.
Engaging discussions and networking opportunities. Giving circles are not just about writing checks; they are vibrant forums for discussion, education, and networking. Members engage in thoughtful conversations about pressing social issues, learn from each other’s experiences, and can even connect with nonprofit leaders and experts. This collective wisdom can broaden your perspective, deepen your understanding of the causes you care about, and help you make more informed decisions together.
Personal well-being and fulfillment. Studies have shown that philanthropy is linked to improved mental health and overall well-being. When you give as part of a collective, these benefits are amplified. The shared purpose and visible impact of your giving circle can bring a stronger sense of agency in giving, and a profound sense of fulfillment and joy.
The powerful impact you make
Turning plans into action. While many people intend to make donations, it can be easy to procrastinate or simply forget. Giving circles provide structure and accountability (without requiring you to share the amount or timing of your donations), making it more likely that you’ll follow through on your giving goals. In fact, members of giving circles are more likely to donate consistently and thoughtfully. Research indicates that giving circle participants are more than twice as likely to give regularly, ensuring that good intentions translate into real-world impact.
Larger, more impactful donations. Collective giving allows for larger, more impactful donations. Being part of a giving circle often inspires members to give (even just a little bit) more than they would individually. As part of a giving circle, your contribution is pooled with others, creating a significant fund that can drive meaningful change. Moreover, these funds are often directed to well-researched, high-impact organizations, ensuring that your money goes where it’s needed most.
Supporting vetted organizations. One of the challenges of individual giving is determining which organizations will make the best use of your donations. One of the key advantages of giving circles is the shared expertise and collective decision-making. Giving circles typically engage in a thorough vetting process, selecting nonprofits that have demonstrated success and alignment with the group’s values. This ensures that your donations are not only generous but also strategically impactful.
Physician community
At its core, a giving circle is about more than just making donations—it’s about finding community and personal fulfillment through shared giving. The network you build within a giving circle provides not only a platform for greater impact but also a source of inspiration and joy. By working together with others who share your passion and goals, you create meaningful relationships that enhance both your giving and your personal well-being.
Recha Bergstrom is a radiologist.
