The Women’s Giving Circle

The Women’s Giving Circle launched in 2003 as a way to encourage women to become more involved philanthropically in Washington County. It provides a unique opportunity for donors to join together, contributing as little as a dollar a day ($365 a year), to promote and support programs and organizations that enable and empower women. One half of all yearly contributions go to work immediately through the granting process. The other half is secured in the endowment fund to ensure growth and perpetuity.

By partnering with over 20 organizations, we have improved the quality of life for women and their families in Washington County by ensuring:

  • Girls with incarcerated loved ones receive support.

  • Women entering the workforce obtain professional attire.

  • Homeless women sleep peacefully at a local shelter.

  • GED and English language classes are funded.

  • Transitional housing needs for women and their families are provided.

  • STEM summer camps are accessible for girls from low income families.

“The Women’s Giving Circle funding has provided opportunities, experiences and programs for girls that focus on the development of the “whole” girl; not just intellect but the development of each girl’s emotional, physical, social and artistic potential….and for that, we are so grateful!” said Maureen Grove, executive director for Girls Inc. of Washington County.

Sign up here for more information about the Women’s Giving Circle or Like Us on Facebook!

Please contact Chairperson Karen Coyne at womensgivingcirclewashco@gmail.com.

Program Description

The Women’s Giving Circle Grants Advisory Committee typically accepts applications for programs, capital and operating expenses that meet the following criteria:

  • Increase life skills of women

  • Encourage the healthy development and personal authority of young girls

  • Improve the quality of life for families in Washington County

  • Improve the emotional and physical well-being of all females

Requirements

  • Applicant organizations must be based in and primarily serving Washington County, MD, and have a current 501(c)(3) determination from the IRS.

  • Organizations may apply for funding for more than one program; however, each program requires a separate grant application.

The 2024 Women’s Giving Circle Grant Application is now closed.  The next process will be Spring 2025.

The 2024 recipients were:

  • Breast Cancer Awareness Cumberland Valley, Inc. - $1,500

  • Community Free Clinic, Inc. - $2,500

  • Ft. Ritchie Community Center - $3,000

  • Girls Inc. - $3,500

  • Girls on the Run of Mid & Western Maryland - $1,000

  • Ladders to Leaders - $1,250

  • St. John’s Family Shelter - $2,500

  • United Way of Washington County, MD Inc. - $2,958.38

Become a Member

Members of the Women’s Giving Circle participate in philanthropy through grant-making, education, advocacy and other community-based activities. Together, we make a bigger impact on organizations that ensure the emotional, educational, financial and physical well-being of women of all ages. Lifetime membership begins with gifts of $365 per year for three consecutive years.

We have different pledge levels to meet your philanthropy goals:
White Oak                            $10,000
Silver Maple                         $5,000-$9,999
Black Walnut                        $3,000-$4,999
Sweet Bay Magnolia          $1,096-$2,999
Flowering Dogwood         $1,095 ($365 for 3 years)
Junior (under 22 yrs old)   $100 annually

You can become a member of the Circle today by completing this membership form and help make a difference in our community.

Please send your annual fee by check made payable to the “Community Foundation of Washington County” with “Women’s Giving Circle” on the memo line, or by credit card.

For questions, please e-mail us at womensgivingcirclewashco@gmail.com.

Creating a Legacy

It’s thanks to our gracious donors that we are able to provide for the hundreds of causes and scholarships each year. Local community foundations like ours allow us to preserve a bright future for our friends, families, and neighbors for generations to come. If you’re ready to donate, we’ll help you make the biggest impact with your funds.

Call us to learn about our funding opportunities or how we can help connect you to a larger endeavor.