A younger generation is stepping up to the plate to fund Renton non-profits through a social networking group.

“The Next Curve is about engaging the next generation in the community,” said Meegan Prince, 34, the founding president. “It’s a great opportunity.”

The board is planning its kick-off meeting for Feb. 23, a meet and greet with Renton Mayor Denis Law.

“We encourage anyone who is slightly curious or interested to come check it out,” Prince said.

Members make a $250 annual contribution. That money is then pooled for a larger contribution.

“It’s by power in numbers,” Prince said. “This is a group that is going to be able to send thousands back into the community.”

The hope is to get about 40 to 50 people signed up the first year, she said.

Signups start at the kickoff event.

“We’ve been working the social networking sites quite a bit,” Prince said.

The board is planning monthly member events that keep younger generations interested.

“We’ve done a lot of research about how to engage our generation,” Prince said. “One of the things people in our generation want are a little more of a social angle.”

Events range from hanging out at a local restaurant to touring a non-profit in the city.

The board is made of community leaders in their 20s, 30s and 40s. Their goal is to engage younger generations, although people of all ages are invited.

“We’ve been saying it’s for the young and young at heart,” Prince said. “It’s also ideal with the person who always wanted to be more involved with the community but doesn’t know where to start.”

Prince is trying to overcome the presumption that giving is up to the more established community members, often the older generation.

“You don’t have to be wealthy to make a difference in your community,” she said. “You can make a difference now.”