Frequently Asked Questions
Joining/Newcomers
Who can attend an event?
We welcome all people who identify as women+ and who want to make a difference in our community. The “+” reflects our commitment to inclusivity, trans women, non-binary individuals, and anyone who aligns with the community's mission to support women and gender-diverse spaces.
If I bring a guest, do they have to donate too?
Only members are expected to donate to the charities. Sometimes guests will be inspired by the featured charities to donate but there is no expectation to do so.
Can I come alone?
Absolutely! Many members attend their first event on their own. We’ll be delighted to welcome you and make introductions if you’d like.
Why do I need to register?
Registration helps us plan for each meeting and keep track of our attendance. It is also helpful to our venue in terms of staffing needs.
Can I bring a friend?
Friends are most welcome; please ask them to register on Eventbrite on our website.
Do I have to become a member right away?
No, you are always welcome as a guest; however, only members in good standing are able to nominate a charity for a future meeting.
Membership
What does membership mean?
Membership means becoming part of a community of women+ making a meaningful difference in Ottawa through collective giving. Members receive event updates and newsletters, may nominate charities (while in good standing), and receive a personalized 100 Women+ Who Care Ottawa lanyard to wear at meetings.
Do I need to attend in person?
Not necessarily. Although we really hope you can attend our meetings, we understand that life gets busy and the unexpected can happen. As long as you make your donations online within one month of each meeting, you will maintain your membership commitment.
What is a member in good standing?
A member in good standing is a member who honours their $100 minimum donation commitment following each meeting ($400 per year). A member in good standing may also nominate a charity for our upcoming meetings. To remain a member in good standing and retain nominating privileges, existing members are asked to support the last four consecutive events through donation participation, regardless of calendar year.
What if I donate to another charity or I’m unable to donate at this time?
If for some reason, you donated towards another charity instead, please email us to let us know so that we can record your intent. If your circumstances have changed and you need to skip making your donation for one event – again, let us know so that we make a note
If I just joined as a member, when can I nominate a charity?
To be eligible to nominate, new members must first attend and donate at a minimum of one event. As long as you continue to honour your donation commitment, you can nominate for each subsequent event.
How do I pause or cancel membership?
Simply email us at WomenWhoCareOtt@gmail.com and we will remove you from our membership and mailing list.
Events
How is the event structured?
The doors open officially at 5:00 p.m. to allow for an hour of socializing. We begin the formal part of our event at 6:00 p.m. sharp with an address from the executive followed by three presentations from each featured charity and a brief Q&A. We conclude promptly at 7:00 p.m. although you are welcome to stay, ask more questions of our presenters or just socialize.
I’d like to donate a prize—how?
To keep the focus on our charities we limit the number of door prizes we give out. But, if you have something you’d like to contribute, please send us an email and you’ll be connected with one of our executive who can discuss it with you.
What should I expect at my first event?
Expect to enjoy yourself! The environment is very welcoming and full of positive energy! You may wish to visit the bar or order from the menu or simply attend to learn about the important impact our charities are making in our community. No food or drink purchase is required.
Can I promote my business or hand out cards?
Though networking is encouraged during our meetings, we put the spotlight on the featured charities and are careful not to pull focus away from the message they share.
Charities/Donations
What are the criteria for a charity to be nominated?
We focus on local, grassroots charities which might benefit from our support. Nominated charities must have a charitable registration number and be able to issue a receipt for tax purposes, so non-profits are not eligible. The full criteria are featured in the charities area of our website.
Can I donate to one, two, or all three charities?
All of the above! You may distribute your donation among the featured charities in the way that suits you as long as the total is a minimum of $100.
What if I missed donating after an event?
Please bring your donations up to date by donating to the charities directly. Once you have made your gifts, please send an email record of your donations to
WomenWhoCareOtt@gmail.com so that we can update your membership record and bring you back into good standing.
How are charities nominated?
The charities are nominated by members in good standing through the fillable form (link to form) on our website or by sending us an email. You will have a month after the meeting to nominate. A member can nominate one charity per meeting.
Can I give more than $100?
Absolutely! While the suggested minimum donation is $100 per event, many members choose to give more depending on the featured charities and their personal circumstances.
How can I best support the goals of 100 Women+ Who Care Ottawa outside of attending events?
Support us on social media! We love our members to like, share and promote our posts! You can find us on Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn. You can also invite guests who might be interested in joining.
How are the final three selected?
The final three charities are selected randomly in a draw overseen by our executive. Selected charities are contacted to ensure they are able and willing to present and that they meet our criteria. Once each charity is confirmed, they are announced on our website at least one month ahead of our meeting. Unsuccessful nominations are held over and are eligible to be selected for up to three more meetings.
Will I receive a tax receipt?
Yes. Donations are made directly to the charities (not to 100 Women+ Who Care Ottawa), and tax receipts are issued directly by our donation platform Canada Helps or the charity.
How do I donate?
Online donations are best for us to manage. We provide QR codes at each meeting and the link to donate to the charities is featured prominently on the main page of our website. Using one of these options ensures your gift will automatically be recorded. If you give via the charity’s website, or by cheque, you will need to send us an email confirming your gift.