AREA– “Defying gravity!” That’s how Impact100 Garden State, an allwomen, all-volunteer organization for collective giving describes its record high of 408 members for 2024.

The impressive number, which was announced at a joyful celebration at Frelinghuysen Arboretum in Morristown on March 7, is a significant increase from 2023’s 375 members. The 408 total includes 97 new members and an 83 percent member renewal rate.

“We’re thrilled with our 2024 membership total of 408 members, because it means that we can grant four $100,000 grants at our Annual Awards meeting in 2024,” says Debby Seme, Impact100 Garden State president.

Impact100 Garden State combines member contributions to give highimpact grants of $100,000 to nonprofits in Morris, Passaic, Somerset, Sussex and Union counties.

“The Impact100 model allows all women to be philanthropists,” Seme explains. “They know their donation will be used in meaningful ways, and we work with our grantees so we can keep members posted on the realworld impact of their grants.”

Impact100 Garden State has granted more than $3 million to area nonprofits since 2013. Grantees have included organizations involved in homelessness, hunger, disability employment, the arts, the environment and more. After applicants are thoroughly vetted and finalists are chosen, the entire membership votes on the recipients.

‘Because all of our members are donors, all of us share in the continued success of Impact100 Garden State. We are not just surviving in these uncertain times—we are thriving beyond all expectations,” Seme says. “We are women with huge hearts and a passion for helping our communities. Working together has made possible our historic 408 member total for 2024.’

To learn about becoming a member, donor or sponsor , visit www.impact100gardenstate.org or write to member@impact100gardenstate.org.