A Giving Circle of SOUL
Oct 29, 2025
Supporting Opportunity & Uplifting Leadership
After attending a Black Philanthropy Month event at the Community Foundation last August, Bianca Shinn-Desras and her fellow attendees were inspired to ask: What’s next for all the months that follow?
The answer: Creation of The SOUL Fund.
The SOUL Fund Giving Circle empowers members to make a bigger difference by pooling resources, fostering shared learning, and collaboratively directing grant funding to Fairfield County nonprofits dedicated to creating positive change within and for the Black community.
To stay focused on the mission, Shinn-Desras often turns to a quote by former United Nations Foundation president Kathy Calvin: ‘Giving is not just about making a donation. It’s about making a difference.’
“That’s what I believe all our members are looking to do with this fund,” she said. “Foster lasting and impactful change.”
It’s a privilege to be a part of The SOUL Fund Giving Circle because it not only provides resources, but also affirms the leadership and vision of nonprofits that bring solutions to the community.
Bianca Shinn-Desras
Steering Committee Member
The SOUL Fund
Join more than 100 members! Be part of The SOUL Fund Giving Circle.
Get started: FCCFoundation.org/SoulFund
