What if making a difference in your community didn’t require endless free time, a big budget, or a perfect plan? What if it simply required one idea and the courage to act on it?

That is exactly how Gals That Give began.

On a recent episode of Your Impact Unleashed, host Kiki Angelos spoke with community leader, former political consultant, and mother Kim Wilson about how a sleepless night led to a movement that has transformed philanthropy across Delaware.

A Late-Night Idea That Sparked a Movement

In 2013, Kim was balancing a demanding career, a newborn, and a one-year-old. Like many young mothers, she wanted to stay involved in community service but lacked the time for traditional volunteer commitments. Then, during a 3:00 a.m. feeding, an idea emerged: What if women could support local charities through simple, meaningful events that fit into their busy lives?

Together with four friends, she launched Gals That Give, creating opportunities for women to gather, connect, and support local nonprofits in just a few hours.

“We launched it on caffeine and a prayer,” Kim recalled. Expecting 30 attendees, they were stunned when 100 women showed up. A movement was born.

More Than Fundraising

What started as a single event has grown into one of Delaware’s most impactful grassroots philanthropic organizations. Gals That Give has supported more than 70 charities, raised hundreds of thousands of dollars, and connected countless women to local causes.

But for Kim, the real impact goes beyond money.

Many nonprofit organizations struggle not only with funding but also with visibility. Gals That Give helps shine a spotlight on these organizations, creating opportunities for volunteerism, advocacy, and long-term community support.

As Kim says, “Never underestimate what a group of women can do in two hours together.”

The Power of Failing Forward

One of Kim’s most powerful messages is to stop waiting for perfection.

Her philosophy is simple: “Fail up.”

“Never be afraid to have a baby idea and throw it out there. Just because something didn’t work doesn’t mean you can’t pivot and continue.”

The success of Gals That Give wasn’t built on perfect planning. It grew because people took action, adapted to challenges, and kept moving forward.

Four Lessons for Changemakers

Kim’s journey offers valuable lessons for anyone looking to make an impact:

• Control the Controllables: Focus on your effort, attitude, and actions.
• Build Your Circle: Surround yourself with people who share your values and vision.
• Fail Up: Take the first step, learn, and keep going.
• Lean Into Connection: Real relationships remain one of the most powerful drivers of change.

Start Where You Are

Kim Wilson’s story is a reminder that meaningful change rarely begins with a grand plan. More often, it starts with a simple idea, a small act of courage, and a willingness to begin.

You don’t need perfect conditions to make a difference. You just need to start.

Listen to the full episode of Your Impact Unleashed and visit Defeat the Streets to learn how you can join a growing movement of everyday heroes creating extraordinary impact.