WGC's Emergency Response Network Raised $1,000 to Help a Woman in Need in our Community - Thank You!5/21/2020
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 May 21, 2020
Buffy Beaudoin-Schwartz, Executive Director of the Women’s Giving Circle of Howard County For Her Mind Magazine In March 2020 the Women’s Giving Circle of Howard County received an emergency request from our partners at the Community Action Council (CAC) for $5,000 to help Head Start families in need due to the COVID-19 crisis. Thanks to the generosity of so many women in our community, we raised significantly more than the $5,000 originally requested through our Emergency Response Network and provided CAC with $20,000 in emergency COVID-19 funding. Women understand the value in collective giving, and having more of an impact together than we might otherwise have alone through our Emergency Response Network. “Once again, the women of our community have risen together to lead and offer real and in the moment solutions to a challenge faced by many of Howard County residents” said Bita Dayhoff, president of the Community Action Council, which runs the Howard County Food Bank. “The significant financial support from the Women’s Giving Circle laid the ground for us to establish Pop-Up pantries which have become a sustained source of food to thousands Howard County residents.” The Community Action Council has seen a significant increase in demand for their services, with over 50% of those seeking assistance from the Food Bank being new clients. Over the last six weeks the CAC has served more than 12,000 individuals through regular Food Bank services and Pop-ups pantries in a number of communities, and they have delivered food to many families in need. The WGC’s Emergency Response Network was created over 15 years ago and is typically utilized for donations up to $1,000 to help an individual in need through our nonprofit partners. However, to address the escalating coronavirus public health crisis, we recently extended the scope of the ERN for a period of time to assist broader needs and more people in our community. And, we’ve partnered with the Community Foundation of Howard County, Horizon Foundation, and United Way of Central Maryland to create HoCoRespond.com, which has given over $400,000 to Howard County nonprofits in emergency COVID-19 funding to date, including the Community Action Council. “We are proud to be part of a community that is stepping up to support our friends and neighbors during this global pandemic” said Barb Van Winkle, chair of the Women’s Giving Circle of Howard County. “We are utilizing our unique strengths as a giving circle to make a bigger difference together through the Emergency Response Network than we might otherwise make alone.” Those wanting to learn more about the WGC’s Emergency Response Network, or support the Community Action Council can find more information at: www.womensgivingcircle.org The WGC's Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI) Committee had a great Virtual Meet & Greet this week! DEI Committee Co-Chair, Hina Naseem remarked: "The WDC DEI Committee held its initial meeting to lay out committee goals and objectives. These wonderful women shared their insight and expertise to pave the way towards effective and necessary change. With momentum in place, co-chair Judy Smith and I, along with the WGC Advisory Board, are eager to work with this panel of women who bring experience, positivity and enthusiasm to make a lasting difference in the ever-changing landscape that is Howard County." Thanks to all those who attended our Meet & Greet! We are looking forward to continuing our work with so much experience and wisdom helping to guide our efforts.  Looking for a gift this Mother's Day? Consider giving a gift to the Women's Giving Circle of Howard County, "In Her Honor". Giving a gift that supports women and girls is a way to celebrate and honor the women and girls in your life and/or memorialize a lost loved one while making a lasting impact for women and girls in Howard County for the future. We will inform those you wish to honor by email. And, we will announce your gift unless you ask us not to on our website and in our monthly eNewsletter. Thank you for considering a gift to the WGC this Mother's Day, In Her Honor. Happy Mother's Day to all the mothers!   Picture courtesy of the Community Action Council May 7, 2020
The Scope of the WGC’s Emergency Response Network Has Been Extended to Address COVID-19 Needs In March 2020 the Women’s Giving Circle of Howard County received a request from our partners at the Community Action Council (CAC) for $5,000 to help Head Start families in need through the Food Bank. Thanks to the generosity of many donors, we raised significantly more than the $5,000 we originally requested, and have provided $20,000 in emergency COVID-19 funding to date to CAC. “Once again, the women of our community have risen together to lead and offer real and in the moment solutions to a challenge faced by many of Howard County residents” said Bita Dayhoff, president of the Community Action Council, which runs the Howard County Food Bank. “The significant financial support from the WGC laid the ground for CAC to establish Pop-Up pantries which have become a sustained source of food to thousands Howard County residents.” The Community Action Council has seen a significant increase in demand for their services, with over 50% of those seeking assistance from the Food Bank being new clients. Over the last six weeks the CAC has served more than 12,000 individuals through regular Food Bank services and Pop-ups pantries in a number of communities, and they have delivered food to many families in need. “We have seen the sheer vulnerability of our community in the face of a major crisis … the need is wide and deep, and it touches at least one out of four of our Howard County who are in need of support in one way or another to be able to meet their most basic needs of food, shelter, energy and access to quality Early Childhood Education programming such as Head Start” said Dayhoff. “Over the past six weeks, CAC, in partnership with many other organizations, has served more than 12,000 individuals with food assistance.” The partnership between CAC and the community is important, as evidenced by one of many comments they have received: “You all are wonderful … going to a Food Bank can be a difficult trip for some families, but all of you make it an easy and kind experience. It’s a giving and generous atmosphere and that’s the best.” There are thousands of others who are served by the school system, the faith community, the newly formed advocacy groups, and many others who do not measure or report on their good deeds. “We are proud to be part of a community that is stepping up to support our friends and neighbors during this global pandemic” said Barb Van Winkle, chair of the Women’s Giving Circle of Howard County. “We are utilizing our unique strengths as a giving circle to make a bigger difference together than we might otherwise make alone.” The WGC's Emergency Response Network was created over 15 years ago and is typically utilized for donations up to $1,000 to help an individual in need through our nonprofit partners. However, to address the escalating coronavirus public health crisis, we recently extended the scope of the ERN for a period of time to assist broader needs and more people in our community. Additionally, the WGC's Young Women's Giving Circle has sent a $750 check and dropped off products for women and girls as part of their recent Feminine Product Drive. “In order to do the most good during this unprecedented coronavirus public health crisis, we are leaving our Emergency Response Network request for the Community Action Council open” said Buffy Beaudoin-Schwartz, WGC Executive Director. “We appreciate the strong support from our community and will continue to send all donations directly to our partners at the CAC to address continuing food security issues in our community.” This is what #TogetherWeGive is all about. Hannah Treger, a Senior at Wilde Lake High School (and going to University of Maryland, congratulations!) has a small business called @BoardsByHannah, making collage boards for rooms, dorms, and offices. Hannah wanted to do something on #GivingTuesdayNow with proceeds from her business, so she donated to the Women's Giving Circle of Howard County's Emergency Response Network request supporting Columbia Community Care. As Hannah said on her business page "I encourage everyone during this time, if you are healthy, and able, and want to help, to get involved." You are an inspiration Hannah - thank you! #BetheGood  Today is #GivingTuesday - a global day of giving and unity - and Women's Giving Circle of Howard County Chair Barb Van Winkle and Executive Director Buffy Beaudoin-Schwartz just delivered a big SUV jam-packed with $3,000+ worth of food and diapers to our partners at Columbia Community Care. In the last month we’ve been able to deliver over $5,500 worth of supplies to support our friends and neighbors through CCC. Many thanks to so many of you who continue to give to the WGC to support our amazing nonprofit and community partners with emergency #COVID19 needs. #TogetherWeGive #GivingTuesdayNow In the last month we’ve been able to deliver over $5,500 worth of supplies to support our friends and neighbors through CCC because of the collective giving of so many. Not all acts of giving involve money - thanks to everyone who continues to give in so many ways to support our community. #TogetherWeGive  Howard County Funders Announce $202,500 |
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The Women's Giving Circle of Howard County is raising critical resources to give to nonprofits on the frontlines of responding to the COVID-19 urgent health and economic needs of disproportionately impacted communities in Howard County.
To meet the unprecedented need, WGC has broadened the scope of our grantmaking and Emergency Response Network at this critical time to stay nimble and flexible in order to be as responsive as possible to growing community needs. WGC is funding nonprofit partners that are focused on basic needs: child care, food, housing, health care and mental health services, as well as our local health care system and frontline health care workers. Donors can double all donations to the WGC COVID-19 fund through the generosity of Cyndi and Ron Gula, who are matching donations dollar for dollar up to $25,000 to address unprecedented COVID-19 community needs. “We know the needs are great, and we are proud to be part of a community of donors and funders that are stepping up to show support in these trying times” said Barb Van Winkle, chair of the Women’s Giving Circle of Howard County. |
“We are in this together, will support women, girls and their families together, and will get through this unprecedented crisis, together."
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The Women’s Giving Circle of Howard County requested help to raise funds to support families in need in Howard County that are being served by a grassroots effort called Columbia Community Care.
We matched the first $600 of donations that came in with $800 and have purchased $1,400 worth of food and other basic needs items to deliver next week. We are going to leave this WGC ERN request open and will continue to provide support for Columbia Community Care as donations come in. All donations will continue to go directly to this effort. Columbia Community Care is a grassroots effort that has been assisting members of our community the last several weeks with emergency food and other basic needs items. They have quickly established a volunteer base that is adhering to COVID-19 safety procedures, and have set up tables in several outdoor locations for families to donate or pick-up items. They are receiving many donations and are running out of food and other basic needs items by the end of the day. This is our second Emergency Response Network request for Columbia Community Care as the need is growing daily and they are not eligible for some traditional funding sources since they are not a nonprofit organization. Can you help? Any amount is appreciated, thank you! |
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Howard County Nonprofits: Apply for Funding by Friday, April 10, 2020
The Women's Giving Circle of Howard County is one of four local philanthropies that established HoCoRespond.com and set a goal of raising $100,000 in 10 days to support Howard County nonprofits with emergency funds in response to the COVID-19 crisis. The goal has been exceeded and $100,000 in emergency funds are now available to support nonprofits on the frontline of support assisting with food security, housing, childcare and healthcare.
The opportunity for Howard County nonprofits to apply for this first round of funding will begin on Monday, April 6, 2020. Organizations must apply by midnight on Friday, April 10.
The Community Foundation of Howard County, Horizon Foundation, United Way of Central Maryland and Women's Giving Circle of Howard County are working together to assess where assistance may be needed, provide funding, and accept donations.
“Howard County Funders are coordinating to raise and deploy critical resources to nonprofits on the frontlines of responding to the urgent health and economic needs of disproportionately impacted communities in Howard County” said Beverly White-Seals, president and CEO of the Community Foundation of Howard County. “We are here to support our community.”
Organizations should be 501(c)3 nonprofits providing services in and to Howard County Maryland residents.
“Nonprofits that meet the basic needs of Howard County residents are eligible for operating support, including those that provide child care, food, housing, health care and mental health services, as well as those that support our local health care system and frontline health care workers,” said Franklyn Baker, president and CEO of United Way of Central Maryland.
HoCoRespond.com is continuing to accept donations and will soon announce a second round of funding for Howard County nonprofits. Those looking to help can donate to the following emergency funds supporting nonprofits that are assisting community members affected by COVID-19:
The Howard County funding community is working together to ensure that each fund has maximum reach and effectiveness, and are urging donors and the community at large to look for opportunities to support the critical needs of nonprofits they wish to help.
“We will continue exploring the path forward in providing relief to our community and look forward to leveraging our strengths and working with others to make a bigger difference together than we might otherwise make alone” said WGC Chair Barb Van Winkle.
As Howard County works to respond to the threat of the COVID-19 pandemic, these organizations will continue to collaborate to assist community stakeholders, business leaders and public sector leaders to ensure a coordinated and comprehensive response.
"These are unprecedented times, and we are grateful for both our nonprofit community coming together to provide critical support, and for donors stepping up to respond” said Nikki Highsmith Vernick, president and CEO of the Horizon Foundation. “This is Howard County at its best."
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The Women's Giving Circle of Howard County is one of four local philanthropies that established HoCoRespond.com and set a goal of raising $100,000 in 10 days to support Howard County nonprofits with emergency funds in response to the COVID-19 crisis. The goal has been exceeded and $100,000 in emergency funds are now available to support nonprofits on the frontline of support assisting with food security, housing, childcare and healthcare.
The opportunity for Howard County nonprofits to apply for this first round of funding will begin on Monday, April 6, 2020. Organizations must apply by midnight on Friday, April 10.
The Community Foundation of Howard County, Horizon Foundation, United Way of Central Maryland and Women's Giving Circle of Howard County are working together to assess where assistance may be needed, provide funding, and accept donations.
“Howard County Funders are coordinating to raise and deploy critical resources to nonprofits on the frontlines of responding to the urgent health and economic needs of disproportionately impacted communities in Howard County” said Beverly White-Seals, president and CEO of the Community Foundation of Howard County. “We are here to support our community.”
Organizations should be 501(c)3 nonprofits providing services in and to Howard County Maryland residents.
“Nonprofits that meet the basic needs of Howard County residents are eligible for operating support, including those that provide child care, food, housing, health care and mental health services, as well as those that support our local health care system and frontline health care workers,” said Franklyn Baker, president and CEO of United Way of Central Maryland.
HoCoRespond.com is continuing to accept donations and will soon announce a second round of funding for Howard County nonprofits. Those looking to help can donate to the following emergency funds supporting nonprofits that are assisting community members affected by COVID-19:
- The Community Foundation of Howard County has its established Howard County Community Relief Fund to address ongoing emergencies in Howard County. Members of the community and fund holders at the foundation are invited to donate.
- The United Way of Central Maryland has established the COVID-19 Community Fund for Central Maryland to support the community, and in particular, support those who operate on the frontlines of providing help and resources to those in need. Community members are invited to donate.
- The Women's Giving Circle of Howard County has its long-established Emergency Response Network (ERN) for donors to support specific needs in the community that the WGC will match in the coming weeks and months ahead.
The Howard County funding community is working together to ensure that each fund has maximum reach and effectiveness, and are urging donors and the community at large to look for opportunities to support the critical needs of nonprofits they wish to help.
“We will continue exploring the path forward in providing relief to our community and look forward to leveraging our strengths and working with others to make a bigger difference together than we might otherwise make alone” said WGC Chair Barb Van Winkle.
As Howard County works to respond to the threat of the COVID-19 pandemic, these organizations will continue to collaborate to assist community stakeholders, business leaders and public sector leaders to ensure a coordinated and comprehensive response.
"These are unprecedented times, and we are grateful for both our nonprofit community coming together to provide critical support, and for donors stepping up to respond” said Nikki Highsmith Vernick, president and CEO of the Horizon Foundation. “This is Howard County at its best."
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It goes without saying that it is a very challenging time for our country right now. Our hearts go out to all those impacted by COVID-19. We are truly in unprecedented times.
As we try to adjust to the new daily realities for ourselves and our families during this public health crisis, it is heartening to see funders come together to harness the power of philanthropy to make a difference in our communities.
The Women’s Giving Circle of Howard County, Maryland is not alone in wanting to do the most good by leveraging the things that make our circle an empowering way to give. Giving circles all over the country are using their unique strengths to make a difference.
We have focused on communicating regularly, being nimble and flexible, broadening our grantmaking scope, collaborating with other funders, seeking information and resources from trusted partners, and leveraging our large network of donors to have a greater impact together than we might otherwise have alone - all hallmarks of the strength and draw of giving circles.
Here are ten ways the WGC is utilizing our strengths to respond to COVID-19. We:
The WGC is building a community of philanthropists and creating a permanent legacy to address the needs of women and girls in Howard County, Maryland. We bring women together to learn about issues impacting our community, and pool our dollars to fund programs that address those issues. We’ve been part of the Howard County community for 19 years, have raised over $1 million to support our efforts from over 1,000 donors, and have given over $500,000 through over 100 grants to nonprofits that support women and girls in our community.
We continue all of this work today, and we’ve done it together – as a giving circle.
“We will continue exploring the path forward in providing relief to our community and look forward to leveraging our strengths as a giving circle and working with others to make a bigger difference together than we might otherwise make alone” said WGC Chair Barb Van Winkle.
“We are all in this together.”
Buffy Beaudoin-Schwartz is the Executive Director of the Women’s Giving Circle of Howard County, Maryland. The WGC is a fund of the Community Foundation of Howard County, Maryland. You can reach her at buffybschwartz@wgchowardcounty.org and www.wgchowardcounty.org
As we try to adjust to the new daily realities for ourselves and our families during this public health crisis, it is heartening to see funders come together to harness the power of philanthropy to make a difference in our communities.
The Women’s Giving Circle of Howard County, Maryland is not alone in wanting to do the most good by leveraging the things that make our circle an empowering way to give. Giving circles all over the country are using their unique strengths to make a difference.
We have focused on communicating regularly, being nimble and flexible, broadening our grantmaking scope, collaborating with other funders, seeking information and resources from trusted partners, and leveraging our large network of donors to have a greater impact together than we might otherwise have alone - all hallmarks of the strength and draw of giving circles.
Here are ten ways the WGC is utilizing our strengths to respond to COVID-19. We:
- Quickly planned with our Advisory Board to communicate with our donors, nonprofit partners, and the community that we were taking this public health crisis seriously, canceling events, and continuing our work remotely.
- Decided to set aside additional funds to focus on our nonprofit partners and the broader community in the coming weeks and months.
- Determined we would broaden the scope of our grantmaking and Emergency Response Network at this critical time to stay nimble and flexible in order to be as responsive as possible to growing community needs.
- Focused on leveraging the strength of our Emergency Response Network to learn of and highlight needs, accept donations, and provide funding quickly.
- Engaged our Young Women's Giving Circle to support our nonprofit partners through their Spring Feminine Product Drive.
- Committed to regular communication, transparency and amplifying our collective voice – among our leadership, donors, prospective donors, funder and nonprofit partners, the media, and the broader community, through both traditional and social media.
- Joined forces with local funding community partners – The Community Foundation of Howard County, Horizon Foundation, and United Way of Central Maryland - to rapidly raise funds and deploy critical resources to nonprofits in Howard County through the newly created HoCoRespond.com - with the initial goal of raising at least $100,000 by early April and giving grants by mid-April.
- Prioritized connecting regularly with our statewide funding community through our regional association of grantmakers, Maryland Philanthropy Network, to learn and share together.
- Looked to regularly connect with national funding resources focused on the coronavirus, including our collective giving partners at Philanos and Philanthropy Together, and our national regional association partner United Philanthropy Forum and the Council on Foundations.
- Have chosen to participate in #GivingTuesdayNow, a global day of giving and unity, set to take place on May 5, 2020 as an emergency response to the unprecedented need caused by COVID-19.
The WGC is building a community of philanthropists and creating a permanent legacy to address the needs of women and girls in Howard County, Maryland. We bring women together to learn about issues impacting our community, and pool our dollars to fund programs that address those issues. We’ve been part of the Howard County community for 19 years, have raised over $1 million to support our efforts from over 1,000 donors, and have given over $500,000 through over 100 grants to nonprofits that support women and girls in our community.
We continue all of this work today, and we’ve done it together – as a giving circle.
“We will continue exploring the path forward in providing relief to our community and look forward to leveraging our strengths as a giving circle and working with others to make a bigger difference together than we might otherwise make alone” said WGC Chair Barb Van Winkle.
“We are all in this together.”
Buffy Beaudoin-Schwartz is the Executive Director of the Women’s Giving Circle of Howard County, Maryland. The WGC is a fund of the Community Foundation of Howard County, Maryland. You can reach her at buffybschwartz@wgchowardcounty.org and www.wgchowardcounty.org
April 1, 2020
Her Mind Magazine
By Buffy Beaudoin-Schwartz, Executive Director, Women’s Giving Circle of Howard County
It goes without saying that it is a very challenging time for many of us right now.
As we try to adjust to the new daily realities for ourselves and our families during the unprecedented coronavirus public health crisis, it is heartening to see Howard County come together to harness the power of philanthropy to make a difference in our community.
The Women’s Giving Circle of Howard County (WGC) is proud to be coordinating with other funders to rapidly raise funds and deploy critical resources to nonprofits in Howard County through HoCoRespond.com, with the goal of raising $100,000 by early April.
We are working closely with the Community Foundation of Howard County, Horizon Foundation, and United Way of Central Maryland to assess where assistance may be needed, accept donations and provide funding to nonprofits on
the frontline of support, focusing on food security, housing, childcare and healthcare. And, we are coordinating with peers in philanthropy, government and business to respond to the urgent health and economic needs of disproportionately impacted communities in Howard County.
Nonprofits that meet the basic needs of Howard County residents will be able to apply for operating support in early April.
The WGC has been building a community of philanthropists and creating a permanent legacy to address the needs of women and girls in Howard County for the last 19 years. We bring women together to learn about issues impacting our community and pool our dollars to fund programs that address those issues.
We will continue to explore the path forward in providing relief to our community and look forward to working with others to make a bigger difference together than we might otherwise make alone.
Won’t you join us?
We are all in this together.
Her Mind Magazine
By Buffy Beaudoin-Schwartz, Executive Director, Women’s Giving Circle of Howard County
It goes without saying that it is a very challenging time for many of us right now.
As we try to adjust to the new daily realities for ourselves and our families during the unprecedented coronavirus public health crisis, it is heartening to see Howard County come together to harness the power of philanthropy to make a difference in our community.
The Women’s Giving Circle of Howard County (WGC) is proud to be coordinating with other funders to rapidly raise funds and deploy critical resources to nonprofits in Howard County through HoCoRespond.com, with the goal of raising $100,000 by early April.
We are working closely with the Community Foundation of Howard County, Horizon Foundation, and United Way of Central Maryland to assess where assistance may be needed, accept donations and provide funding to nonprofits on
the frontline of support, focusing on food security, housing, childcare and healthcare. And, we are coordinating with peers in philanthropy, government and business to respond to the urgent health and economic needs of disproportionately impacted communities in Howard County.
Nonprofits that meet the basic needs of Howard County residents will be able to apply for operating support in early April.
The WGC has been building a community of philanthropists and creating a permanent legacy to address the needs of women and girls in Howard County for the last 19 years. We bring women together to learn about issues impacting our community and pool our dollars to fund programs that address those issues.
We will continue to explore the path forward in providing relief to our community and look forward to working with others to make a bigger difference together than we might otherwise make alone.
Won’t you join us?
We are all in this together.
March 2020
WGC Donors and Friends,
Wow, what a difference a month makes since we sent our last eNewsletter.
Last month we were discussing our ongoing Diversity, Equity and Inclusion work, our trip to Seattle to meet with 75+ giving circles from across the country, and the many upcoming events we had planned for Women's History Month and beyond. As we've communicated, all previously planned WGC events are cancelled or on hold at the moment.
As we end Women's History Month, I'd like to thank each and every one of you for your generosity in so many ways, and specifically those of you who have donated to the WGC through our Emergency Response Network to support the community during this unprecedented coronavirus public health crisis.
As many of you may know, the WGC's Emergency Response Network was created over 15 years ago and is typically utilized for donations up to $1,000 to help an individual in need through our nonprofit partners. However, to address the escalating and unprecedented coronavirus public health crisis, we've broadened the scope of our Emergency Response Network at this time to stay nimble and flexible to be as responsive as we can to growing community needs. The past two weeks we've organized three successful ERN requests that have raised over $13,000, that we have supported with over $6,000 in matching funds, for a total of just about $20,000 to give to the community so far:
In the coming weeks and months we will continue to pool our dollars through the ERN so we can have a greater impact together than we might otherwise have alone.
Additionally, our Young Women's Giving Circle not only organized a Feminine Product Drive the last several months, but they raised $1,006.26, which the WGC supported with an additional $500. While the YWGC is waiting until it is safe to pick up and distribute the donated products, in order to assist during this challenging time, WGC/YWGC has used these funds to provide HopeWorks with a check for $750 and the Community Action Council with a check for $750 to purchase feminine products to distribute to those in need now.
We are collaborating locally with the Community Foundation of Howard County, Horizon Foundation, and United Way of Central Maryland to assess where assistance may be needed, accept donations, and provide funding to assist Howard County nonprofits on the frontline of support, focusing on assisting with food security, housing, childcare and healthcare - through the newly launched HoCoRespond.com. Please give if you can, and help spread the word that funds will be available soon for nonprofits in our community.
And, we are coordinating with funders across the state by participating in weekly calls through our statewide Maryland Philanthropy Network, to learn what our colleagues are doing, and share information.
Finally, we are in contact with Philanos, our national network of women's giving circles across the country regarding philanthropy's important role during this challenging time.
The Women's Giving Circle, along with local and national funders will continue to explore the path forward together in providing relief to our friends, neighbors, and communities. We are proud to be working directly with you, and representing you.
We are all in this together. Stay strong, stay healthy!
Sincerely,
Barb Van Winkle
WGC Chair
If you have any questions about the Women's Giving Circle, our Emergency Response Network, or HoCoRespond.com, please contact WGC Executive Director, Buffy Beaudoin-Schwartz at wgcexecutivedirector@wgchowardcounty.org or myself at wgcchair@wgchowardcounty.org.
WGC Donors and Friends,
Wow, what a difference a month makes since we sent our last eNewsletter.
Last month we were discussing our ongoing Diversity, Equity and Inclusion work, our trip to Seattle to meet with 75+ giving circles from across the country, and the many upcoming events we had planned for Women's History Month and beyond. As we've communicated, all previously planned WGC events are cancelled or on hold at the moment.
As we end Women's History Month, I'd like to thank each and every one of you for your generosity in so many ways, and specifically those of you who have donated to the WGC through our Emergency Response Network to support the community during this unprecedented coronavirus public health crisis.
As many of you may know, the WGC's Emergency Response Network was created over 15 years ago and is typically utilized for donations up to $1,000 to help an individual in need through our nonprofit partners. However, to address the escalating and unprecedented coronavirus public health crisis, we've broadened the scope of our Emergency Response Network at this time to stay nimble and flexible to be as responsive as we can to growing community needs. The past two weeks we've organized three successful ERN requests that have raised over $13,000, that we have supported with over $6,000 in matching funds, for a total of just about $20,000 to give to the community so far:
- Community Action Council: We asked for $5,000 and to date, 102 donors have helped to raise $11,944.88. We matched the first $5,000 with $5,000 and have sent a $10,000 check to CAC. We will use the additional funds to continue to help CAC in the coming weeks.
- Teen Parenting Program: We asked for $500 and raised $716.69 from 13 donors. We matched the first $500 and sent a check to Wilde Lake High School for the Teen Parenting Program to purchase diapers and wipes for teen moms, dads and their babies. We'll use the additional funds to assist the community in the coming weeks.
- Columbia Community Care: We asked for $500 and raised $553.74 from 17 donors to purchase items to assist families in need of food and other basic necessities. We matched this and are purchasing and delivering $1,000+ worth of food and other items this week.
In the coming weeks and months we will continue to pool our dollars through the ERN so we can have a greater impact together than we might otherwise have alone.
Additionally, our Young Women's Giving Circle not only organized a Feminine Product Drive the last several months, but they raised $1,006.26, which the WGC supported with an additional $500. While the YWGC is waiting until it is safe to pick up and distribute the donated products, in order to assist during this challenging time, WGC/YWGC has used these funds to provide HopeWorks with a check for $750 and the Community Action Council with a check for $750 to purchase feminine products to distribute to those in need now.
We are collaborating locally with the Community Foundation of Howard County, Horizon Foundation, and United Way of Central Maryland to assess where assistance may be needed, accept donations, and provide funding to assist Howard County nonprofits on the frontline of support, focusing on assisting with food security, housing, childcare and healthcare - through the newly launched HoCoRespond.com. Please give if you can, and help spread the word that funds will be available soon for nonprofits in our community.
And, we are coordinating with funders across the state by participating in weekly calls through our statewide Maryland Philanthropy Network, to learn what our colleagues are doing, and share information.
Finally, we are in contact with Philanos, our national network of women's giving circles across the country regarding philanthropy's important role during this challenging time.
The Women's Giving Circle, along with local and national funders will continue to explore the path forward together in providing relief to our friends, neighbors, and communities. We are proud to be working directly with you, and representing you.
We are all in this together. Stay strong, stay healthy!
Sincerely,
Barb Van Winkle
WGC Chair
If you have any questions about the Women's Giving Circle, our Emergency Response Network, or HoCoRespond.com, please contact WGC Executive Director, Buffy Beaudoin-Schwartz at wgcexecutivedirector@wgchowardcounty.org or myself at wgcchair@wgchowardcounty.org.
March 2020
WGC Donors and Friends,
Wow, what a difference a month makes since we sent our last eNewsletter.
Last month we were discussing our ongoing Diversity, Equity and Inclusion work, our trip to Seattle to meet with 75+ giving circles from across the country, and the many upcoming events we had planned for Women's History Month and beyond. As we've communicated, all previously planned WGC events are cancelled or on hold at the moment.
As we end Women's History Month, I'd like to thank each and every one of you for your generosity in so many ways, and specifically those of you who have donated to the WGC through our Emergency Response Network to support the community during this unprecedented coronavirus public health crisis.
As many of you may know, the WGC's Emergency Response Network was created over 15 years ago and is typically utilized for donations up to $1,000 to help an individual in need through our nonprofit partners. However, to address the escalating and unprecedented coronavirus public health crisis, we've broadened the scope of our Emergency Response Network at this time to stay nimble and flexible to be as responsive as we can to growing community needs. The past two weeks we've organized three successful ERN requests that have raised over $13,000, that we have supported with over $6,000 in matching funds, for a total of just about $20,000 to give to the community so far:
In the coming weeks and months we will continue to pool our dollars through the ERN so we can have a greater impact together than we might otherwise have alone.
Additionally, our Young Women's Giving Circle not only organized a Feminine Product Drive the last several months, but they raised $1,006.26, which the WGC supported with an additional $500. While the YWGC is waiting until it is safe to pick up and distribute the donated products, in order to assist during this challenging time, WGC/YWGC has used these funds to provide HopeWorks with a check for $750 and the Community Action Council with a check for $750 to purchase feminine products to distribute to those in need now.
We are collaborating locally with the Community Foundation of Howard County, Horizon Foundation, and United Way of Central Maryland to assess where assistance may be needed, accept donations, and provide funding to assist Howard County nonprofits on the frontline of support, focusing on assisting with food security, housing, childcare and healthcare - through the newly launched HoCoRespond.com. Please give if you can, and help spread the word that funds will be available soon for nonprofits in our community.
And, we are coordinating with funders across the state by participating in weekly calls through our statewide Maryland Philanthropy Network, to learn what our colleagues are doing, and share information.
Finally, we are in contact with Philanos, our national network of women's giving circles across the country regarding philanthropy's important role during this challenging time.
The Women's Giving Circle, along with local and national funders will continue to explore the path forward together in providing relief to our friends, neighbors, and communities. We are proud to be working directly with you, and representing you.
We are all in this together. Stay strong, stay healthy!
Sincerely,
Barb Van Winkle
WGC Chair
If you have any questions about the Women's Giving Circle, our Emergency Response Network, or HoCoRespond.com, please contact WGC Executive Director, Buffy Beaudoin-Schwartz at wgcexecutivedirector@wgchowardcounty.org or myself at wgcchair@wgchowardcounty.org.
WGC Donors and Friends,
Wow, what a difference a month makes since we sent our last eNewsletter.
Last month we were discussing our ongoing Diversity, Equity and Inclusion work, our trip to Seattle to meet with 75+ giving circles from across the country, and the many upcoming events we had planned for Women's History Month and beyond. As we've communicated, all previously planned WGC events are cancelled or on hold at the moment.
As we end Women's History Month, I'd like to thank each and every one of you for your generosity in so many ways, and specifically those of you who have donated to the WGC through our Emergency Response Network to support the community during this unprecedented coronavirus public health crisis.
As many of you may know, the WGC's Emergency Response Network was created over 15 years ago and is typically utilized for donations up to $1,000 to help an individual in need through our nonprofit partners. However, to address the escalating and unprecedented coronavirus public health crisis, we've broadened the scope of our Emergency Response Network at this time to stay nimble and flexible to be as responsive as we can to growing community needs. The past two weeks we've organized three successful ERN requests that have raised over $13,000, that we have supported with over $6,000 in matching funds, for a total of just about $20,000 to give to the community so far:
- Community Action Council: We asked for $5,000 and to date, 102 donors have helped to raise $11,944.88. We matched the first $5,000 with $5,000 and have sent a $10,000 check to CAC. We will use the additional funds to continue to help CAC in the coming weeks.
- Teen Parenting Program: We asked for $500 and raised $716.69 from 13 donors. We matched the first $500 and sent a check to Wilde Lake High School for the Teen Parenting Program to purchase diapers and wipes for teen moms, dads and their babies. We'll use the additional funds to assist the community in the coming weeks.
- Columbia Community Care: We asked for $500 and raised $553.74 from 17 donors to purchase items to assist families in need of food and other basic necessities. We matched this and are purchasing and delivering $1,000+ worth of food and other items this week.
In the coming weeks and months we will continue to pool our dollars through the ERN so we can have a greater impact together than we might otherwise have alone.
Additionally, our Young Women's Giving Circle not only organized a Feminine Product Drive the last several months, but they raised $1,006.26, which the WGC supported with an additional $500. While the YWGC is waiting until it is safe to pick up and distribute the donated products, in order to assist during this challenging time, WGC/YWGC has used these funds to provide HopeWorks with a check for $750 and the Community Action Council with a check for $750 to purchase feminine products to distribute to those in need now.
We are collaborating locally with the Community Foundation of Howard County, Horizon Foundation, and United Way of Central Maryland to assess where assistance may be needed, accept donations, and provide funding to assist Howard County nonprofits on the frontline of support, focusing on assisting with food security, housing, childcare and healthcare - through the newly launched HoCoRespond.com. Please give if you can, and help spread the word that funds will be available soon for nonprofits in our community.
And, we are coordinating with funders across the state by participating in weekly calls through our statewide Maryland Philanthropy Network, to learn what our colleagues are doing, and share information.
Finally, we are in contact with Philanos, our national network of women's giving circles across the country regarding philanthropy's important role during this challenging time.
The Women's Giving Circle, along with local and national funders will continue to explore the path forward together in providing relief to our friends, neighbors, and communities. We are proud to be working directly with you, and representing you.
We are all in this together. Stay strong, stay healthy!
Sincerely,
Barb Van Winkle
WGC Chair
If you have any questions about the Women's Giving Circle, our Emergency Response Network, or HoCoRespond.com, please contact WGC Executive Director, Buffy Beaudoin-Schwartz at wgcexecutivedirector@wgchowardcounty.org or myself at wgcchair@wgchowardcounty.org.
WGC Emergency Response Network Raising $500 to Support Columbia Community Care ... Can You Help?
3/26/2020
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The Women’s Giving Circle of Howard County is requesting help in raising $500 to support families in need in Howard County that are being served by a grassroots effort called Columbia Community Care. The WGC will match this $500 and then purchase $1,000 worth of basic food and cleaning items to donate.
Columbia Community Care is a grassroots effort that has been assisting members of our community the last several weeks with emergency food and other basic needs items. They have quickly established a volunteer base that is adhering to COVID-19 safety procedures, and have set up tables in several outdoor locations for families to donate or pick-up items. They are receiving many donations and are running out of food and other basic needs items by the end of the day. Can you help? Any amount is appreciated, thank you! As many of you may know, the WGC's Emergency Response Network was created over 15 years ago and is typically utilized for donations up to $1,000 to help an individual in need through our nonprofit partners. However, to address the escalating coronavirus public health crisis, we recently extended the scope of the ERN for a period of time to assist broader needs and more people in our community, and we will continue to pool our dollars so we can have a greater impact together than we might otherwise have alone. |
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HoCoRespond.com Raising Money and Giving Grants to Nonprofits in Howard County
Howard County funders are coordinating to rapidly raise funds and deploy critical resources to nonprofits in Howard County through HoCoRespond.com, with the goal of raising $100,000 in the next 10 days.
"We're facing an unparalleled challenge, and it will require collective action and support for those that are impacted the hardest,” said County Executive Calvin Ball. “We’re calling upon our community to practice kindness and compassion in supporting their neighbors, friends, and strangers through this time.”
The Community Foundation of Howard County, Horizon Foundation, United Way of Central Maryland and Women's Giving Circle of Howard County are working together to assess where assistance may be needed, accept donations and provide funding to assist Howard County nonprofits on the frontline of support, focusing on assisting with food security, housing, childcare and healthcare.
“Through this fund we are coordinating with peers in philanthropy, government and business to respond to the urgent health and economic needs of disproportionately impacted communities in Howard County,” said Franklyn Baker, president and CEO of United Way of Central Maryland. “We know that in these unprecedented times, our community will take care of one another, and I have no doubt that we will reach our initial goal of raising $100,000 in 10 days in record time.”
Those looking to help can donate to the following emergency funds supporting nonprofits that are assisting community members affected by COVID-19:
“Howard County Funders are committed to taking steps to address the coronavirus outbreak in ways that include deep considerations of equity, taking care to support community members who are most impacted,” said Nikki Highsmith Vernick, president and CEO of the Horizon Foundation. “We strongly believe that funders must put equity at the forefront of the COVID-19 response.”
The opportunity for nonprofits to apply for funding will be available at HoCoRespond.com when the $100,000 goal is reached.
“Nonprofits that meet the basic needs of Howard County residents are eligible for operating support including those that provide child care, food, housing, health care and mental health services, as well as those that support our local health care system and frontline health care workers,” said Beverly White-Seals, president and CEO of the Community Foundation of Howard County.
This unprecedented public health crisis is rapidly evolving and HoCoRespond.com will be monitoring the situation and adjusting efforts as necessary.
“As the management of the spread of COVID-19 continues to evolve at a fast pace, each organization will continue to work diligently to keep abreast of the updates, respond accordingly and support decisions made by county, state and federal authorities,” said Barb Van Winkle, chair of the Women’s Giving Circle.
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Howard County funders are coordinating to rapidly raise funds and deploy critical resources to nonprofits in Howard County through HoCoRespond.com, with the goal of raising $100,000 in the next 10 days.
"We're facing an unparalleled challenge, and it will require collective action and support for those that are impacted the hardest,” said County Executive Calvin Ball. “We’re calling upon our community to practice kindness and compassion in supporting their neighbors, friends, and strangers through this time.”
The Community Foundation of Howard County, Horizon Foundation, United Way of Central Maryland and Women's Giving Circle of Howard County are working together to assess where assistance may be needed, accept donations and provide funding to assist Howard County nonprofits on the frontline of support, focusing on assisting with food security, housing, childcare and healthcare.
“Through this fund we are coordinating with peers in philanthropy, government and business to respond to the urgent health and economic needs of disproportionately impacted communities in Howard County,” said Franklyn Baker, president and CEO of United Way of Central Maryland. “We know that in these unprecedented times, our community will take care of one another, and I have no doubt that we will reach our initial goal of raising $100,000 in 10 days in record time.”
Those looking to help can donate to the following emergency funds supporting nonprofits that are assisting community members affected by COVID-19:
- The Community Foundation of Howard County has its established Howard County Community Relief Fund to address ongoing emergencies in Howard County. Members of the community and fund holders at the foundation are invited to donate.
- The United Way of Central Maryland has established the COVID-19 Community Fund for Central Maryland to support the community, and in particular, support those who operate on the frontlines of providing help and resources to those in need. Community members are invited to donate.
- The Women's Giving Circle of Howard County has its long-established Emergency Response Network (ERN) for donors to support specific needs in the community that the WGC will match in the coming weeks and months ahead.
“Howard County Funders are committed to taking steps to address the coronavirus outbreak in ways that include deep considerations of equity, taking care to support community members who are most impacted,” said Nikki Highsmith Vernick, president and CEO of the Horizon Foundation. “We strongly believe that funders must put equity at the forefront of the COVID-19 response.”
The opportunity for nonprofits to apply for funding will be available at HoCoRespond.com when the $100,000 goal is reached.
“Nonprofits that meet the basic needs of Howard County residents are eligible for operating support including those that provide child care, food, housing, health care and mental health services, as well as those that support our local health care system and frontline health care workers,” said Beverly White-Seals, president and CEO of the Community Foundation of Howard County.
This unprecedented public health crisis is rapidly evolving and HoCoRespond.com will be monitoring the situation and adjusting efforts as necessary.
“As the management of the spread of COVID-19 continues to evolve at a fast pace, each organization will continue to work diligently to keep abreast of the updates, respond accordingly and support decisions made by county, state and federal authorities,” said Barb Van Winkle, chair of the Women’s Giving Circle.
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