The Women’s Giving Circle of Howard County (WGC) was proud to participate in the recent Philanos PowerUP! Texas National Conference in Austin - a national gathering of collective giving leaders and philanthropic innovators from across the country.

WGC was represented by Buffy Beaudoin-Schwartz and Barb Van Winkle, both members of the Philanos Board of Directors and long-time leaders of the Women’s Giving Circle, including serving as Chair. Both have also served on the Board of Trustees of the Community Foundation of Howard County, reflecting the depth, continuity, and strength of philanthropic leadership rooted in Howard County.

Buffy also served as a panelist during the conference, leading a discussion on strategic communications in challenging times and the importance of clarity, courage, and consistency in philanthropic leadership.

“When community foundations and giving circles work together, philanthropy becomes more inclusive, more collaborative, and more responsive to local needs,” said Buffy. “These national conversations help us bring stronger ideas and deeper partnerships back to Howard County.”

A highlight of the gathering was the Lunch Plenary, Community Foundations and Giving Circles: Imagine the Impact!, which explored the evolving role of community foundations in supporting, incubating, and partnering with giving circles. As a fund of the Community Foundation of Howard County, WGC benefits from this powerful intersection of community foundation leadership and collective giving - strengthening both local philanthropy and national collaboration.

The conference also provided valuable opportunities to connect with giving circle leaders and community foundation peers from across the country. These relationships expand WGC’s thinking, strengthen partnerships, and ensure that Howard County remains at the forefront of the collective giving movement.

“Community foundations are uniquely positioned to strengthen collective giving in their regions,” said Melissa Curtin, President & CEO of the Community Foundation of Howard County. “By partnering with giving circles and engaging donors in new ways, we expand who participates in philanthropy and how impact is achieved.”
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Collective giving continues to move millions of dollars into communities nationwide - broadening participation in philanthropy and expanding leadership and access. The Women’s Giving Circle remains committed to harnessing that collective power to strengthen opportunities for women and girls and to deepen philanthropic impact here at home.

The Women's Giving Circle of Howard County is proud to amplify the voices and stories of women givers in our community through our regular series "Our Giving, Our Stories". Inspiring philanthropic leadership and increasing giving by amplifying the voices of women and girls are among the goals of this effort and we are committed to advancing this important work in our community.​

This month we are profiling Dr. Marilyn Berchie-Gialamas, Founder of  Trinity Maternal Wellness Inc.:

We asked Marilyn what moves her to give her time, talent, and financial resources and here's what she said:

"Giving back isn’t just about money—your time, energy, and skills matter just as much. Volunteer, serve on a board, or support a fundraiser. Think about what causes inspire you, then explore local groups like the Autism Society, CCTA, ACS, or Howard EcoWorks. Visit their websites to see how you can help. And if you’re lucky enough to have financial resources, please consider supporting general operating funds—the backbone of every nonprofit’s work and often hardest to fund."

We also asked her when she started giving to issues that are important to her, and she said:

"I started giving back early as a child and as a Girl Scout in Howard County. Service was built into my upbringing through volunteering, and I also completed required community service hours in middle and high school. Those experiences shaped my values and helped me understand the importance of showing up consistently for others and staying connected to the needs of the community."

And, we asked what advice she has for those interested in giving back, and she said:

"Start where you are, with what you have, and choose a mission close to your heart. Don’t wait until it’s “perfect” or you have more time or money small, consistent contributions matter. Learn from the community you want to support, build relationships, and commit to serving in ways that are respectful and sustainable. Find one organization you trust and show up regularly."

Here's several organizations that Marilyn currently supports:

• Trinity Maternal Wellness
• Columbia Community Care
• Women’s Giving Circle of Howard County

Thank you, Marilyn, for all that you do for our community!

Learn more about the ​WGC's "Our Giving, Our Stories" and nominate a woman today! We are always accepting the names of women throughout the year who may be profiled for their inspiring philanthropic leadership.