Common Purse was born out of the idea that philanthropy is in need of an overhaul. Much good work needs to be done in this world, but charities have become massive, impersonal and unwieldy affairs. Many of us have grown cynical over the years watching our donations be misspent or even disappear into black holes of administration fees, huge salaries and failure to oversee the final outcomes.

We want to support the needs of small and nimble do-gooders; people and projects that are real and who will get the job done…with integrity, insight and innovative approaches.

Our goal is to help find, sponsor and connect worthy projects with great people who are creative, motivated and intelligent in their giving. We believe that small, personal and more transparent enterprises can often better serve the needs of their communities.

We believe that uncommon ideas and fresh ways of doing good will result in less waste of time and resources, more transparency and even more fun. If you're tired of the same old drill, come join us on a journey of discovery... Dare to give wisely. Dare to give freely. Discover your inner philanthropist!

Think you've got a better idea? Nurture your dream here... Pursue your passion with the 'Purse'!

Quick Question?

Or email us at
skydancer@ij.net

Who We Are and What We Do

Guidelines for Projects

"The Truth is in the Feet" I always say...

What we DO is more apt to tell us the truth about ourselves than what we simply say. (Hey...the same goes for lovers and diets)

But I digress...The truth really is in our feet. In other words, our actions. And when it comes to giving, RIGHT actions are even better. As my old friend Tao says, every time you give foolishly you have not only failed to store up riches in heaven, but you have sprung a leak in your spiritual bank account. You suffer loss. One must give wisely for it to count!

So what are we looking for?

For starters...Let's say you've got a great idea that you are already invested in. You've given your own time, money and effort toward making your project a reality. You may need help to make it grow or you may want to partner with others who share the same concerns. You may not be big enough to merit the expense and effort of maintaining a charitable foundation. You may not be in a position to make it all happen by yourself, but with a little help...who knows? Great things can be accomplished!

What we are saying is that we want projects that are past the planning stage. Bring us something that you have put a little heart, soul and cash into. Give us a reason to believe...

Make it creative! Do you have a better way of addressing a need? A saner, more direct, less patriarchal approach? Is there an element of self reliance in it, where people are encouraged to help themselves and not just accept handouts? Let’s hear about your project! Send us your proposal in 1000 words or less to get things in motion!

Click here to send us your proposal or to inquire further about any of the current projects listed on our site.