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WGC's Grants Committee Co-Chair Paula Seabright recently joined in on the fun, learning, and camaraderie at the HCLS Women’s Leadership Retreat. "It was great!" said Paula. "So many enthusiastic young women, eager to change our world for the better." We are always honored to partner with the Howard County Library System and Howard County Public School System - and to support this important day and these amazing young women! Here's what Marcy Leonard, Chief Operating Officer, Public Services, Howard County Library System had to say about the day: "Loved the partnership between Howard County Library System, Howard County Public School System & Women's Giving Circle of Howard County, MD to co-host our Women’s Leadership Retreat with over 50 10th & 11th grade students from Guilford Park, Hammond, Oakland Mills & Wilde Lake High Schools! Thank you to President & CEO Tonya Aikens for inspiring the young women with her keynote, Wilde Lake teachers Kate Volpe & Lindsey Startt for facilitating exceptional activities, WGC’s Paula Seabright for the service focus, & educators from all the schools for supporting the amazing young women! It was a truly beautiful day to build foundations of leadership & networking for many years to come."
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 (L-R) Cheryl Gray, Lee Rees Draminski, Barb Van Winkle, Buffy Beaudoin-Schwartz, Hali Lee, Kashonna Marrow, Jade McDuffie McClary, Esq. Happy Women's History Month! More than 150 donors, nonprofit leaders, and community partners gathered for the Women’s Giving Circle of Howard County’s Annual Celebration & Pink Party - celebrating The Power of WE: Courageous Philanthropy for Complex Times and the impact that happens when women come together to invest in women and girls in our community. Donor Engagement Committee Co-Chair Jade McClary hosted the evening, acknowledging the complex moment in our country and world and reminding us that it is often in times like these that community matters most. She then guided the program through a series of reflections and conversations that highlighted the strength and impact of our collective philanthropy, setting the stage for WGC Chair Candace Dodson-Reed to reflect on the purpose and urgency of the Women’s Giving Circle’s work. Chair Candace Dodson-Reed grounded the evening in our WHY - reflecting on the growing challenges facing women and families and the importance of continuing to invest in solutions that help women and girls thrive. She also recognized the many women in the room who have helped build the Women’s Giving Circle over the past 24 years - from founders to current Advisory Board members and the broader community of donors and leaders who continue to carry the work forward. As she reminded us, “In times of uncertainty, philanthropy is more than generosity - it is leadership.” Donor Engagement Committee Co-Chair Cheryl Gray shared the many ways donors can support and engage with the Women’s Giving Circle - from annual giving and sponsorships to legacy gifts and participation in The Big Give, our collaborative grantmaking experience. We were honored to welcome keynote speaker Hali Lee, author of The Big We, with a fireside conversation facilitated by WGC Vice Chair Kashonna Marrow. Hali shared powerful insights about the growing movement of collective giving and how generosity, trust, and shared leadership can unlock new possibilities for impact when people come together around shared values. Grants Committee Chairs Paula Seabright and Laura Bacon shared how our collective investments are supporting nonprofit partners across Howard County and highlighted the leadership of our Young Women’s Giving Circle, including their work on the Break the Cycle Period Product Drive and advocacy for menstrual equity. The evening also marked the presentation of the inaugural Buffy Beaudoin-Schwartz Women’s Philanthropy Award, with a $5,000 grant directed to Trinity Maternal Wellness. “This award isn’t just about the $1.3 million in grants we’ve made or the $1.3 million endowment we’ve built" said Buffy. "It’s about the women who stepped forward, claimed their seat at the philanthropic table, and built this movement together.” We were also honored to receive proclamations recognizing the Women’s Giving Circle during Women’s History Month from Maryland Governor Wes Moore and Howard County Council Chair Opel Jones. The proclamation recognizing the inaugural Buffy Beaudoin-Schwartz Women’s Philanthropy Award was read by WGC Advisory Board member Shaundra Turner Jones, making the moment especially meaningful for our community. The Women’s Giving Circle is a fund of the Community Foundation of Howard County, and the partnership continues to strengthen opportunities for collective philanthropy in our community. As Melissa Curtin, President & CEO of the Community Foundation, shared, “The Women’s Giving Circle reflects the power of women coming together to learn, give, and lead - and we are proud to support this extraordinary community of philanthropists.” As the evening concluded, Jade McClary reflected on the spirit of the night and the future of the Women’s Giving Circle: “Together, we continue to build a powerful community of philanthropists - and as we look ahead to the Women’s Giving Circle’s 25th anniversary year, we invite you to be part of the story as the Power of WE continues to grow.” What’s Next Inspired by The Power of WE? Join us!
If you know someone who believes in the power of women investing in women and girls, invite them to be part of the Women’s Giving Circle! #PowerOfWE #TheBigWe #CollectiveGiving #WomensPhilanthropy  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 Jennifer Woods, Immediate Past Chair of the Women's Giving Circle, and President & CEO of Future Business Leaders of America We asked her what moves her to give her time, talent, and financial resources, and she said: "Giving back has always been part of who I am, even in seasons when my time is limited by work and raising my kids. I’ve learned that showing up looks different at different stages of life, and that giving still matters, whether through leadership, financial support, or lending my time and voice when I can. The Women’s Giving Circle of Howard County allows me to stay connected to my community and invest in causes I care about." We asked Jennifer when she started giving to issues that are important to her, and here's what she said: "I started giving at a young age. I grew up in a home where helping others, especially through our church, was just part of everyday life. It wasn’t something we talked about a lot. It was simply what you did. Those early experiences shaped me and helped me see that even small acts of giving time and helping others through what ever means was part of being in a community." And, we asked what advice she has for those interested in giving back, and she said: "Start where you are and give in ways that feel natural to you. It doesn’t have to be big or perfect to matter. Small, thoughtful ways matter, whether time, talent, or resources. Follow what moves you, stay connected to your community, and remember that giving back looks different in every season of life." Here's several organizations that Jennifer currently supports:
"In addition, I try to give back to causes my kids care about and support people in my community in need, recognizing that where you are in life often call for different kinds of commitment of time and support." Thank you, Jen, 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.  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.” 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.  Friends, This year brings many opportunities to invest in women and girls in Howard County with the WGC. One of our signature moments ahead is our Annual Celebration & Pink Party on March 4, 2026 - The Power of WE: Courageous Philanthropy for Complex Times, featuring keynote speaker Hali Lee, author of The Big We. READ THE FULL ENEWSLETTER HERE At a time when the challenges facing our community - and our world - feel increasingly complex, courageous philanthropy matters more than ever. Coming together in conversation, giving, and shared purpose is how we turn care into action. I hope you’ll join us as we explore what it truly means to harness the Power of WE. This year’s event will include the presentation of the inaugural Buffy Beaudoin-Schwartz Women’s Philanthropy Award, with the first award honoring Buffy for her vision, service, and lasting impact as a founder and long-time leader of the WGC. Please join us to share in this powerful moment. And as we head toward the Women’s Giving Circle’s 25th Anniversary next year, we will unveil an exciting announcement that will help power our work for years to come. I invite and encourage you to sponsor the WGC throughout 2026 (sponsorships begin at $200 and include event tickets) or by purchasing your tickets today so you can be part of this inspiring and important event. You can sponsor the WGC throughout 2026 and/or purchase tickets here Thank you for all you do to support women and girls - I look forward to seeing you soon. Sincerely, Candace Dodson-Reed WGC Advisory Board Chair [email protected] www.womensgivingcircle.org   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: 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.
The WGC's Young Women’s Giving Circle (YWGC) is one of the most powerful ways the Women’s Giving Circle of Howard County invests in the next generation of women leaders. Designed for high school and college-age young women, the YWGC introduces participants to philanthropy, leadership, and civic engagement while giving them real opportunities to learn, lead, and make change in their community. Learn more here
YWGC members and interns participate in hands-on learning throughout the year, including grantmaking, issue education, leadership development, and advocacy. As we begin the new year, the group is already off to a strong start. At their first meeting of the year, YWGC participants focused on building one of the most important leadership skills of all: the ability to speak up with confidence and clarity. WGC Advisory Board member Cheryl Gray facilitated an engaging session focused on presentation skills - an especially timely topic given the Young Women’s Giving Circle’s growing role in advocacy this year. As WGC Grants Committee Co-Chair Paula Seabright shared, "Advocacy is a central focus of the YWGC intern program this year ... to help prepare interns to testify in support of menstrual hygiene legislation expected to come before the Maryland General Assembly, participants worked with Cheryl to strengthen their presentation skills, learn how to communicate their message effectively, and build confidence in sharing their voices publicly." These skills will be critical as the interns prepare to advocate for policies that directly impact women and girls - an issue area that aligns closely with WGC’s longstanding commitment to menstrual health, dignity, and equity. Stay tuned for more details about the bills under consideration this legislative session and how you can support them. We are proud to see these young women stepping into leadership roles and using their voices to create change. The Young Women’s Giving Circle represents the future of women’s philanthropy and civic leadership in Howard County. If you would like to support these amazing young women you can donate below, thank you!  new year, new opportunities. As we begin the new year, I am honored and excited to serve as Chair of the Women’s Giving Circle of Howard County. For 24 years, the WGC has brought women together to learn, lead, and give - strengthening our community through the power of collective philanthropy. As a fund of the Community Foundation of Howard County (CFHC), we are grateful for our strong and collaborative partnership, which enables us to deepen our impact, expand our reach, and advance our mission together. This year brings many opportunities to continue investing in women and girls in Howard County. One of our signature moments ahead is our Annual Celebration & Pink Party on March 4, 2026 - The Power of WE: Courageous Philanthropy for Complex Times, featuring keynote speaker Hali Lee, author of The Big We. I invite you to join us by sponsoring the WGC throughout 2026 (sponsorships begin at $200 and include event tickets) or by purchasing your tickets today so you can be part of this inspiring evening of community, connection, and purpose. You can sponsor the WGC throughout 2026 and/or purchase tickets here! I look forward to the year ahead and to all we will accomplish together through the collective generosity, leadership, and partnership that defines the WGC! Sincerely, Candace Dodson-Reed WGC Advisory Board Chair [email protected] www.womensgivingcircle.org 
 Dear Friends,
As we close out another powerful year of collective giving, we are reminded of the strength, compassion, and vision that women in our community bring to philanthropy every single day - the Power of WE. Together, WE continue to build a vibrant, inclusive, and generous giving circle - one that strives to uplift women and girls and strengthen Howard County in meaningful ways. This year, WE:
Thank you for your ongoing support of women and girls - click here to give today! With appreciation, Jennifer Woods, WGC Chair Candace Dodson Reed, Incoming WGC Chair Kashonna Marrow, Incoming WGC Vice Chair Buffy Beaudoin-Schwartz, WGC Executive Director WGC's 2025-2026 Board of Directors
WGC's Young Women's Giving Circle "Break the Cycle" Period Product Drive Up & Drop Off - Thank You!12/13/2025  Thank you to everyone who showed up this frosty morning to support the Women's Giving Circle/Young Women's Giving Circle's "Break the Cycle" Period Product Drive Up & Drop Off! Our amazing YWGC interns were out in full force collecting and organizing products from the many donors and volunteers who joined us to support women and girls in Howard County. As Incoming Chair Candace Dodson-Reed said, "it may be cold, but you could feel the warmth!" The Women’s Giving Circle of Howard County (WGC) hosts our Young Women’s Giving Circle (YWGC) for high school aged young women to learn about philanthropy, leadership, community, and specific issues like women’s health and period poverty. "Since its launch, the Women’s Giving Circle’s Break the Cycle Period Product Drive has addressed a critical and often overlooked need - access to menstrual products for women and girls experiencing poverty" said WGC's YWGC and Break the Cycle Chair Paula Seabright. "This initiative not only provides essential supplies but also breaks down stigma, builds awareness, and strengthens collective action around menstrual equity in our community." Through this effort, WGC has raised over $10,000 to provide directly to nonprofit partners that support women and girls with period products - ensuring they can purchase what is most needed through their suppliers at lower costs. In addition, we have collected hundreds of pounds of donated products that are distributed to schools, shelters, and community agencies across Howard County. Today's WGC/YWGC "Break the Cycle" Period Product Drive Up & Drop Off brought in 100+ pounds of products and several hundred dollars to purchase products to provide to our nonprofit partners in the county who serve women and girls. Special thank you to Daria J. Willis and Howard Community College for giving us space to collect products for our drive. Thank you to everyone who supported today's drive - including our YWGC interns, WGC leaders, donors, volunteers, and our many elected officials, candidates, and a cute puppy or two who stopped by to show their support, and even to dance a little in the cold - we appreciate you all!  By Paula Seabright and Dr. Lanlan Xu Period poverty - the inability to access menstrual products due to financial constraints - is a public health crisis hiding in plain sight. According to the policy organization PERIOD, 1 in 4 teens have struggled to afford period products, 4 in 5 students have missed class time or know someone who has because of their period, and 2 in 5 women experience period poverty at some point in their lives.Lack of safe, reliable menstrual hygiene products is not just an inconvenience - it increases the risk of preventable infections, reproductive complications, and mental health challenges including anxiety and depression. For families stretching every dollar in today’s challenging economy, especially following recent SNAP benefit delays tied to the federal shutdown, access to basic hygiene products has become even more uncertain. When a family must choose between groceries, gas, or menstrual supplies, the burden falls disproportionately on women and girls.In Howard County, organizations and young leaders are stepping up. The Women’s Giving Circle of Howard County (WGC), a fund of the Community Foundation of Howard County, is addressing this issue through its “Break the Cycle” Period Product Drive and the grassroots leadership of the Young Women’s Giving Circle (YWGC). These young advocates are supporting nonprofits, raising awareness, and mobilizing their peers to confront stigma and expand access, showing that menstrual equity is both a public health issue and a leadership opportunity for the next generation. YWGC member Sakshi Tirodkar, who founded Equality Now Period at Long Reach High School, captured the scale and urgency of the issue: “With over 500 million women around the world facing period poverty, it is so important that we as students help however we can to aid the girls of our community. That is why I was inspired to start the Equality Now Period group at Long Reach High School, working to educate the next generation about period poverty and attacking this prevalent need in society. And, the work we are doing in the Young Women’s Giving Circle through our period product drives and menstrual advocacy efforts fills my heart as we take this one step further, breaking the stigma around this issue and serving the women of Howard County and beyond.” YWGC intern Yara Aziz echoed this compassion-driven approach. “A lot of us have lived through the issues we’re trying to fix, so we show up with empathy first.” Another powerful example of youth leadership is happening at Mt. Hebron High School, where student leader Isha Ande has expanded the Mt. Hebron Period Club into a driving force for menstrual equity. Under her leadership, students have organized schoolwide period product drives, partnered with statewide advocacy organizations, and worked directly with legislators drafting two bills to address period poverty in Maryland. Local institutions are also stepping up. The Howard County Commission for Women has committed to eliminating period poverty through education, advocacy, and community partnerships. Schools, PTAs, nonprofits, and volunteers are joining together to ensure menstrual health becomes central to conversations about equity and well-being. Addressing period poverty is not only a health issue, it is an equity issue. Residents can help by donating menstrual products, supporting nonprofits and schools, speaking openly about menstrual health, and advocating for policies that expand access. On Saturday, December 13, WGC will host its next Break the Cycle Period Product Drive from 9-11 a.m. at Howard Community College. These drives have already supplied thousands of products to women and girls across the county, and the need is growing. Period poverty is preventable. With coordinated community action, policy change, and the leadership of young women who refuse to accept stigma or silence, we can build a community where no one misses school, work, or daily life because they lack menstrual products. Howard County’s young leaders are showing us exactly what it looks like to meet this issue with compassion, courage, and advocacy.It’s time to end period poverty once and for all … and together, we can. About the Authors Paula Seabright is a Women’s Giving Circle Advisory Board Member and Co-Chair of the WGC Grants Committee. She leads the WGC’s Break the Cycle Period Product Drive and the Young Women’s Giving Circle. Dr. Lanlan Xu is a public health expert and former member of the Howard County Commission for Women, where she helped lead community initiatives addressing period poverty.   The Women’s Giving Circle of Howard County (WGC) hosts our Young Women’s Giving Circle (YWGC) for high school aged young women to learn about philanthropy, leadership, community, and specific issues like women’s health and period poverty. Last night, YWGC intern Ellie Vernick, on behalf of the WGC's YWGC, testified to the Howard County Board of Education regarding the availability of period products in Howard County schools. “The best philanthropists work for change" said WGC YWGC and "Break the Cycle" Chair. "That's just what our YWGC interns did last night as they testified at the Howard County Board of Education meeting, urging the school system to fulfill the requirements of state legislation and stock period products in school restrooms.” Here's what YWGC's Ellie Vernick said, on behalf of the WGC's Young Women's Giving Circle: "My name is Ellie Vernick, and I am here representing the WGC's Young Women’s Giving Circle of Howard County, a high school student intern group dedicated to addressing women’s health and combating period poverty in our community.
Thank you for your time, and we urge you to take immediate action to restore consistent access to menstrual hygiene products in all HCPSS schools."
2025 WGC Grants To Date
2024 WGC Grants - Over $88,000 Invested in Our Community
 The Women’s Giving Circle of Howard County (WGC) celebrated its commitment to collective leadership and community impact during its Leadership & Legacy Happy Hour on Wednesday evening at the Kahlert Foundation Complex at Howard Community College. The event brought together donors, partners, Advisory Board members, elected officials, and candidates to honor WGC’s leadership history and to look ahead to the next chapter - it was wonderful to see so many long-time and new donors! Honoring Leadership and a Year of Strengthening the Circle Outgoing WGC Chair Jennifer Woods was recognized for her years of dedicated service and steady leadership. “This year has been about deepening our alignment, strengthening our Advisory Board, and preparing the WGC for the future,” Woods said. “I’m proud of the clarity, stability, and shared commitment we’ve built together.” Jennifer has led the WGC with focus and a deep commitment to building strong relationships across the Advisory Board and committees, ensuring the organization is poised for long-term success. Incoming Chair Candace Dodson-Reed was introduced as the next leader to guide the WGC. Dodson-Reed brings more than 25 years of cross-sector leadership experience across government, corporate, nonprofit, and higher education sectors. She is a strategic thinker known for driving effective outcomes, fostering inclusive leadership, shaping organizational strategy, and building strong community partnerships. “I am honored to step into this role,” Dodson-Reed said. “The Women’s Giving Circle is powered by collaborative leadership and a shared commitment to community. Together, we are well positioned for this next chapter.” The WGC also announced that Kashonna Marrow will assume the role of Vice Chair. Marrow is an inspiring speaker, leadership coach, author, and corporate trainer whose work centers on personal and professional transformation. She brings a dynamic perspective to organizational leadership and a strong commitment to elevating women and girls in the community. A Strong Partnership with the Community Foundation New Community Foundation of Howard County (CFHC) President & CEO Melissa Curtin highlighted the deep and ongoing partnership between the WGC and the Foundation. As a fund of the Community Foundation, the WGC is a central part of CFHC’s philanthropic work. “The Women’s Giving Circle is our most active fund, and we are so proud of all that has been accomplished and the impact it has made over the years,” Curtin said. “Our partnership is rooted in shared values and a shared commitment to strengthening philanthropy in Howard County. We look forward to continuing this collaboration as the WGC enters its next phase of leadership.” Leadership Transition Strengthens Both Organizations The WGC announced that Buffy Beaudoin-Schwartz will retire at the end of 2025 from her role as Executive Director. She will transition into a newly created shared role as Senior Advisor for Philanthropy & Communications for both CFHC and the WGC, supporting strategic communications, philanthropic storytelling, and coordinated initiatives across the county’s philanthropic ecosystem. “I am deeply proud of this circle and the women who lead it,” Beaudoin-Schwartz said. “This new role allows me to continue supporting both organizations with a shared approach to communication, collective giving, and community impact.” Ensuring a Strong Foundation for the Future Governance Committee Co-Chairs Jessica Moreno and Lynne Schaefer, who led the transition work throughout the year, emphasized the importance of thoughtful planning and collaborative leadership. “Our focus this year was ensuring a smooth, transparent, and well-supported transition,” Moreno and Schaefer shared. “We worked closely with the Advisory Board to strengthen roles, align responsibilities, and position the WGC for long-term success. It has been an honor to help guide this process and support the leadership that will carry the WGC into its next chapter.” Collective Leadership: 2026 WGC Advisory Board The WGC announced its full 2026 Executive Committee and Advisory Board, reflecting continuity and shared purpose as the Circle enters its 24th year: 2026 Executive Committee:
2026 Advisory Board Members: include Alison Canning, Maxine Clark, Shaundra Turner Jones, Mary Jordan, Kim Lightfoot, Yolanda F. Sonnier, Robin Stimson, Nette’ Stokes, Barb Van Winkle, and CFHC President & CEO Melissa Curtin. Celebrating Legacy and Recognizing Leadership WGC also announced the creation of the Buffy Beaudoin-Schwartz Women’s Philanthropy Award, an annual award recognizing women leaders who advance the lives of women and girls in Howard County. The award includes a $5,000 grant directed to a local nonprofit selected by the honoree. The Future in Action Incoming Grants Committee Co-Chair Paula Seabright highlighted how the future of the WGC is already taking shape through the leadership of WGC's Young Women’s Giving Circle interns and their work on advocacy, service, and the upcoming Break the Cycle Period Product Drive. She recognized the interns who attended the event and celebrated their growing impact across the county. “Our young women are leading with compassion, courage, and conviction - and they’re already changing the conversation about period poverty in our community,” Seabright said. “Their work shows us exactly what the future of philanthropy looks like.” Looking Ahead The WGC previewed its 2026 Annual Celebration & Pink Party, themed “The Power of WE: Courageous Philanthropy for Complex Times” scheduled for March 4, 2026, at the Kahlert Foundation Complex with keynote speaker Hali Lee, trailblazing author of The Big WE and one of the country’s most influential voices in collective giving. Tickets and Sponsorships can be purchased here. About the Women’s Giving Circle of Howard County Founded in 2002, the Women’s Giving Circle is a community of over 1,800 donors supporting programs that benefit women and girls in Howard County. To date, WGC has awarded more than $1.2 million in grants and built a $1.1 million endowment to sustain long-term impact. The Women’s Giving Circle is a fund of The Community Foundation of Howard County.  please join us. Hello Leaders in Philanthropy, I hope you will join us next week for WGC's Leadership & Legacy Happy Hour on Wednesday, November 19, 2025, 5:30 - 7:00 pm at Howard Community College. Read the full November eNewsletter here Please join us as we celebrate our leadership, our donors, our partners, and we share a special announcement about the exciting next chapter for the WGC. Learn what we have planned in the coming year, and how you can get involved! Our WGC Young Women’s Giving Circle members will also be on hand collecting period products for WGC’s Break the Cycle drive - we invite you to join us and bring a contribution if you’re able. Click here to register - your $25 registration fee will support the product drive. As we enter this season of gratitude, we are especially thankful for each of you and your ongoing support of women and girls in our community. There are so many meaningful ways to give your time, talent, and financial resources to the WGC. Here are ten meaningful ways to support the WGC and inspire your giving this season. This is the power of our giving circle. Thank you for your ongoing support. Please contact WGC Executive Director Buffy Beaudoin-Schwartz with any questions. Sincerely, Jennifer Woods WGC Advisory Board Chair [email protected] www.womensgivingcircle.org  |
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Give
- WGC General Donation
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- WGC's "Break the Cycle" Period Product Drive
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"Women’s philanthropy shapes the future for women and girls through the power of collective giving." - Candace Dodson Reed, Chair
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