Spark, a young nonprofit, is changing the notion of philanthropy. For its members, philanthropy is a lifestyle choice--one that engages them on many levels. According to Executive Director Shannon Farley, Spark helps you change the world--and network, find a tennis partner, and a new apartment all at the same time!
Spark--whose mission is to build a community of young global citizens invested in changing patterns of inequality that impact women globally--is a network bent on making philanthropy different. According to Shannon, "We are primarily a global network. We want to change the way we engage in philanthropy and our role in the world."
One way they do this is by appealing to busy professionals. Spark events are fun, accessible, and convenient, says Shannon. The energy in the room is exciting and down-to-earth, and events are inexpensive and held on nights and weekends, with the knowledge that young professionals work long hours. Although women make up the majority, 40 percent of Spark's membership is men, and the group consists mostly of twenty-five to forty-five year olds. Spark's events also tend to relate to the issues men and women face in their daily lives--and it's a fun and easy way to connect and network with others.