Get to know us
How it all started
Impact100 Greater Sacramento got its start in conversations between founding President Evelyn Jensen and a friend. Her friend spoke passionately about the transformational impact the national organization’s Pensacola chapter had on that city’s nonprofit community.
As a volunteer in the nonprofit sector for more than 30 years, Evelyn understood how Impact100’s signature $100,000 grants could completely change the landscape of an organization. And she was inspired by Impact100’s tradition of bringing women together to combine their talents, their resources and their connections to raise the money and then each year choose a nonprofit organization to receive a transformational grant.
That vision moved Evelyn to start a Greater Sacramento chapter. But she knew she couldn’t do it alone. So, she began calling on some of the most dynamic women in the region to join the cause. And one by one, about a dozen women stepped up to take on leadership posts to help get the organization off the ground. They were from all walks of life, with different areas of focus – some business, some family, some both. They all shared a common belief: that a diverse group of women, working together, can create something powerful to make a positive and lasting impact on the Greater Sacramento region.
For more information about how Impact100 started, see our global story.
Together, we will make a sustainable impact in our community, one transformational grant at a time.
The Impact100 model
Built on the belief that women create powerful change together, the Impact100 model has transformed communities around the world for more than two decades. Through collective giving, members pool resources to fund high-impact grants that uplift local nonprofits.
At least 100 women unite in membership.
Each member contributes a $1,000 gift.
Together, $100,000 funds a local nonprofit.
How our grantmaking works
Impact100 Greater Sacramento members each contribute $1,000 annually, pooling their donations into a grant fund that supports nonprofits across the Greater Sacramento region. We aim to award incremental grants of $100,000 each year, depending on membership levels. Nonprofit finalists are selected through a competitive application process, and members vote at the annual meeting to determine the grant recipients. Each woman who contributes $1,000 or more receives one vote.
Focus areas for
Impact100 Greater Sacramento funds transformational grants across several key focus areas that address critical needs in our community. Nonprofit organizations apply within these categories to help members evaluate and fund projects that create meaningful and lasting impact.
Arts & culture
Programs that expand access to arts and culture, including cultural initiatives, creative education, and opportunities for community participation in the arts.
Environment
We strive to protect natural resources and promote environmental justice. Our efforts support parks, sustainability, education, and climate action.
Health & Wellness
Programs that improve people’s physical and mental health by expanding access to care, wellness resources, and services that strengthen overall well-being.
Education
We offer educational programs for both children and adults that target learning gaps. Our goal is to reduce educational disparities in the community.
Family
Programs supporting children, families, and seniors strengthen community stability. These initiatives offer vital resources for a flourishing society.
How our grant cycle works
Each year, Impact100 Greater Sacramento follows a structured review process to evaluate nonprofit applications and award transformational grants that strengthen our community.
January
Grant applications open for nonprofit organizations serving the Greater Sacramento.
February
The annual membership drive closes, determining the total grant pool for the year.
March
Applications close and Focus Groups begin reviewing proposals through a evaluation process.
June — July
Focus Groups conduct site visits with semifinalist to learn more about their programs and impact.
August
Five finalists are selected and chosen by Impact100.
September
Annual Celebration and Membership Drive
Make a meaningful difference today
Greater Sacramento
Your generosity helps bring bold ideas to life and creates meaningful change where it’s needed most. Your support fuels high-impact grants that empower local nonprofits to strengthen and uplift our community.
@impact100greatersac
