Corazónes in action: community-led impact

Giving circles have long served as a quiet but powerful force for good, neighbors coming together and pooling their generosity to invest in the causes that shape the heart of their communities. In Southern New Mexico, that spirit is not only alive, but evolving.

In 2025, the Community Foundation of Southern New Mexico reintroduced its giving circle, previously known as 100 Who Give, with a renewed energy and identity: Corazónes in Action. While the name took on new life, the purpose remained deeply rooted, to uplift local nonprofits through collective giving and shared purpose. It was not just a rebrand, but a reaffirmation of what community-driven philanthropy can achieve.

The process itself reflects this inclusive spirit. Community members are invited to nominate organizations they believe in on social media, elevating voices and missions from across the region.

From these nominations, three nonprofits are randomly selected for the final ballot, ensuring both opportunity and equity. At each event, attendees cast their votes live, transforming generosity into a shared experience.

In 2025, two Corazónes in Action events brought this vision to life, raising a total of $11,000 in support of four local organizations. At the final gathering, a meaningful milestone was reached. For the first time, every organization on the ballot received funding.

This moment of collective generosity was made possible by all the donors present and by a special gift from the Josefa-Jiron Chavez Fund, held at the Community Foundation of Southern New Mexico. This moment of collective impact speaks volumes about what can happen when a community comes together.

That evening, the Boys & Girls Club of Las Cruces received the most votes, earning $6,000 to continue its vital work with youth. Casa de Peregrinos and The Schumacher Grant each received $1,000. These are reminders that every mission, every effort, holds value in the fabric of this community.

In April of 2025, the Corazónes in Action Kickoff Event, held in conjunction with Southern New Mexico Giving Day, sparked the momentum for the year. Nature Friends was awarded $3,000 in support of their work connecting children with the natural world, fostering curiosity, and a sense of belonging beyond the classroom.

Held during Volunteer Appreciation Week, the event served as a moment to honor those who give not just financially, but with their time and heart. Chris and William Little, founders of the Interagency Council, were recognized for their decades of leadership and their enduring commitment to collaboration, a legacy that continues to strengthen the community.

What emerges from these moments is more than a series of events or dollar amounts. It is a testament to Southern New Mexico’s generosity, strong sense of connection, and enduring commitment to the well-being of its people.

Since its inception, this giving circle has supported awarding over $56,000 to vital nonprofits in our community. Through the support of donors, nonprofits are empowered to continue their essential work in nurturing potential, inspiring change, and building resilience across communities.

This impact would not be possible without the dedication of the Corazónes in Action Committee, N2 Publishing, Pioneer Bank, Tactica Strategies, Calhoun Flower Farms, and Ice Box Brewing Company, whose support helps turn vision into reality.

Looking ahead, the momentum continues. This year, the Community Foundation will host one Corazónes in Action event on June 12 from 5–7:30 p.m. at the Picacho Icebox location (2825 West Picacho Ave). This is an opportunity once again for community members to come together, give collectively, and directly support the organizations that make Southern New Mexico stronger. The event also celebrates the release of the 1 in a Melon Summer Shandy brewed in partnership with Icebox Brewing Co.

At its core, Corazónes in Action is a reminder that when people come together with intention and compassion, giving becomes more than an act, it becomes a movement.