Making an impact on nonprofits

AUSTIN (KXAN) - Looking for a way to give back in this coming year? Impact Austin is looking for women to join their group so several nonprofits in the Central Texas area can flourish in 2010.

Emancipet in East Austin is one organization that has been helped by Impact Austin. And thanks to their donation, veterinarians are busier than ever thanks to a new surgical wing.

"We have funded a surgical suite at Emancipet so they could do 40 more spays or neuters a day," said Impact Austin Founder and CEO Rebecca Powers.

Thanks to a $100,000 grant from Impact Austin, there will be fewer unwanted cats and dogs roaming the streets. But in order for these grants to happen, the organization needs members.

"Each of our members contributes $1000 annually, we pool that money and give it back to the community in the form of multiple $100,000 grants," said Powers.

Past grants have gone to places like Ecology Action to set up new recycling centers outside of Austin and Goodwill for job training.

And members of Impact Austin decide which nonprofit they want to make an impact on.

"Our members have the opportunity to sit on grant review committees and actually review the applications from the non-profits who apply for our money," said Powers.

Each year five grants are awarded. However, the organization still needs some additional members, and just about anyone can join.

"All it is is $1000 and you have to be female," said Powers. "And we welcome any women in Central Texas or not, we even have a few in other states."