Young Women’s Giving Circle Helps Advance Statewide Menstrual Equity

The Women's Giving Circle of Howard County (WGC) is celebrating an important victory for menstrual equity in Maryland - and the leadership of young women who helped make it possible.

On May 26, Governor Wes Moore signed Maryland House Bill 457 into law, requiring institutions of higher education that provide on-campus housing to make free menstrual hygiene products available in student health centers by August 1, 2028. The legislation represents a meaningful step forward in addressing period poverty and ensuring students have access to essential health resources.

Among those present for the bill signing were Governor Wes Moore, Delegate Jessica Feldmark, Delegate Dr. Terri Hill, Maryland House Speaker Joseline Peña-Melnyk, and representatives of the Women's Giving Circle's Young Women's Giving Circle, Mount Hebron High School senior Isha Ande and YWGC Chair Paula Seabright. Their presence reflected the broad coalition of elected officials, advocates, educators, and young leaders who worked together to advance menstrual equity across Maryland.

For the past two years, YWGC participants have been learning about the impact of period poverty while taking action through the Women's Giving Circle's Break the Cycle Period Product Drive. Through education, advocacy, community partnerships, and legislative engagement, these young women have worked to raise awareness and advance solutions that improve access to menstrual products for women and girls.

"Our interns worked hard to turn their vision into action," said Paula Seabright, Chair of the Young Women's Giving Circle and Co-Chair of the Women's Giving Circle Grants Committee. "Many of our current and former YWGC members have spent the past two years learning about period poverty, raising awareness, advocating for change, and meeting with legislators. To see Governor Moore sign this bill into law was incredibly meaningful. It shows our young women that their voices matter and that they can help create real change in their communities and beyond."

The Women's Giving Circle worked closely with Delegate Jessica Feldmark throughout the legislative process, helping elevate the issue and providing opportunities for YWGC participants to engage directly in advocacy efforts. The bill's passage demonstrates what is possible when community leaders, elected officials, and young advocates work together toward a common goal.

The Young Women's Giving Circle is a leadership and philanthropy program of the Women's Giving Circle of Howard County that brings together high school-aged young women to learn about philanthropy, community needs, leadership, and civic engagement. Through grantmaking, volunteerism, advocacy, and educational experiences, participants gain firsthand experience in creating positive change while developing the skills and confidence to become future community leaders.

"This achievement belongs to the young women who were willing to speak up, learn, and lead," Seabright added. "Their commitment to addressing period poverty will help students across Maryland for years to come."

As WGC prepares to celebrate its 25th anniversary in 2027, this milestone serves as a powerful reminder that philanthropy is about more than charitable giving. It is also about empowering the next generation of leaders to identify challenges, advocate for solutions, and help build a stronger, more equitable community for all.

The Women's Giving Circle's Break the Cycle Period Product Drive continues to raise awareness and collect products to support local women and girls experiencing period poverty. Through efforts like these, WGC and YWGC are helping ensure that access to menstrual products is recognized not as a luxury, but as a basic necessity. 

You can learn more about where to donate products and/or money here. Mark your calendars for our December 5, 2026 WGC "Break the Cycle" Period Product Drive from 9:00 - 11:00 am in Lot B at Howard Community College. Thank you for your support!

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 for Asian Pacific American Heritage Month we are profiling Niti Srivastava, Executive Director of the Indian Cultural Association.

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

"Through my work with the Indian Cultural Association (ICA), I saw firsthand the gaps in culturally relevant support for the Indian-American community and food access for all Howard County residents. ICA events are free and open to all. We welcome cross-cultural exchange of ideas, traditions, and perspectives, creating a space where communities can come together to learn from one another, celebrate diversity, and build a more caring, inclusive community."

We asked Niti when she started giving to issues that are important to her, and here's what she said:

"I co-founded the Indian Cultural Association (ICA) in 2018 after witnessing unmet needs in our community. Seeing families navigate these challenges without familiar resources pushed me to act. During COVID, we began free food distributions for all Howard County residents. I saw both need and resilience up close, and the power of community-driven support. It sparked a lasting commitment to give my time and resources where I can create a lasting impact."

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

"My journey with ICA has taught me that action, even in small ways, creates momentum. Whether supporting food distributions or other community efforts, your time and presence matter more than you realize. As the saying goes, 'If you can’t feed a hundred people, then feed just one. Don’t wait for the perfect moment. Impact begins with action, and consistency matters more than scale.'"

Here's several organizations that Niti currently supports:

• Feed HoCo Inc.
• Grassroots
• HopeWorks

Thank you, Niti, 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.

We gave big! What a powerful conclusion to the Women’s Giving Circle of Howard County’s Big Give 2026!

Over two evenings, 50 women and girls came together to learn, connect, share ideas, engage in meaningful conversations, and collectively direct $26,000 in funding to nonprofit organizations supporting women and girls in Howard County through the WGC's Big Give, the Young Women’s Giving Circle Mini Give, and Spirit Awards.

Now in its fifth year, the Big Give continues to grow in both participation and impact. Over the past five years, more than 220 women have participated in this unique collective giving experience, directing more than $120,000 to nonprofit organizations serving women and girls in our community.

During the first session on May 11, participants explored what moves them personally, learned more about philanthropy and collective giving, reviewed and discussed 37 proposals, and selected this year’s finalists through a collaborative voting process led by WGC Big Give 2026 Co-Chairs Laura Bacon and Kashonna Marrow. View highlights here.

“Collective giving is powerful because everyone has a voice,” said Kashonna Marrow, WGC Big Give Co-Chair. “The thoughtful discussions and shared decision-making throughout this process are what make the experience so impactful.”

At Monday evening’s final session, participants heard directly from this year’s finalist organizations before collectively determining final funding awards.

The following organizations received funding through the WGC’s Big Give 2026:
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• Bridges to Housing Stability - $10,000 to provide direct financial assistance to help single female-headed households remain stably housed.
• Trinity Maternal Wellness - $6,000 to expand prenatal and postpartum education, support, and essential resources for mothers and families.
• TurnAround, Inc. - $4,000 to support survivors of violence and human trafficking, including women preparing to reenter the community.

In addition, the WGC’s Young Women’s Giving Circle awarded a $5,000 Mini Give grant to:

• Johns Hopkins Howard County Medical Center Foundation - to support educational forums providing adolescent girls with knowledge and resources around menstrual health.

The evening also included two Spirit Awards of $500 each, recognizing organizations whose work resonated strongly with participants:

• HopeWorks’ Survivors’ Health Project - supporting survivors of sexual and intimate partner violence through wellness resources, holistic health grants, and trauma-informed care.
• Howard Community College Educational Foundation’s Jill of All Trades Program - providing hands-on workshops, mentorship, and career exploration opportunities encouraging young women to pursue careers in the skilled trades.

Participants also generously supported the YWGC’s ongoing period product drive, filling a large donation container with menstrual health products that will help support local girls and women in need throughout the community.

“Every year, I leave the Big Give feeling hopeful and energized by what’s possible when women come together with generosity, curiosity, and a desire to make a difference,” added Laura Bacon, WGC Big Give Co-Chair.

The Big Give is truly a collaborative effort, and we are grateful to the many WGC and Community Foundation leaders, volunteers, and partners who helped bring this year’s experience to life, including Laura Bacon, Kashonna Marrow, Paula Seabright, Dee Athey, Buffy Beaudoin-Schwartz, Melissa Curtin, Aishwariya Chandrasekar, Lee Draminski, and Cheryl Gray.

As a fund of the Community Foundation of Howard County, WGC is proud to be part of a strong and enduring partnership that helps support and strengthen this work.

“Reviewing this year’s proposals was both inspiring and incredibly challenging because every organization brought forward important and meaningful work supporting women and girls in our community,” said Dee Athey, CFHC Director of Grants and Community Engagement. “While the Big Give participants made thoughtful funding decisions together, we encourage donors and community members to continue learning about and supporting these organizations beyond the Big Give as well.”

We are also incredibly proud of the WGC's Young Women’s Giving Circle interns, whose thoughtful participation and leadership through the Mini Give reflected the strength and promise of the next generation of philanthropists.

“The Mini Give is about more than grantmaking - it’s about helping young women see themselves as philanthropists, leaders, and changemakers in their community,” said Paula Seabright, WGC Grants Committee Co-Chair and YWGC Chair.

​Community members can view a full overview of all 37 Big Give 2026 proposals and learn more about the organizations and programs supporting women and girls across Howard County.

The Women’s Giving Circle of Howard County (WGC), a fund of the Community Foundation of Howard County, is a community of philanthropists dedicated to improving the lives of women and girls in Howard County through collective giving, grantmaking, advocacy, and community engagement. Over the past 24 years, more than 1,800 primarily female donors have collectively directed more than $1.3 million to local nonprofit organizations serving women and girls, while also building a $1.3 million endowment that will help ensure support for women and girls in perpetuity.

​The Big Give is one important way WGC engages women in hands-on philanthropy and collective grantmaking as part of our broader goal of directing up to $100,000 annually to nonprofit organizations serving women and girls in our community.

As WGC looks ahead to its 25th Anniversary in 2027, the organization is excited to continue growing the impact of collective philanthropy in Howard County. Registration for the Big Give 2027 is already open, and WGC’s goal for this milestone year is to bring even more women to the table and double the Big Give’s collective grantmaking impact to $50,000. Learn more and register here

The WGC’s Big Give is about more than grantmaking. It is about women learning, leading, giving, listening, connecting, and building community together through the power of collective philanthropy. Thank you to everyone who participated in this year’s Big Give and helped make this experience so meaningful and impactful!

Following the Women’s Giving Circle of Howard County’s Big Give 2026, we have been asked by donors and community members for more information about the nonprofit partners who submitted proposals this year and how they can continue to support their work.

We are proud to share this list of organizations whose work is strengthening the lives of women and girls across Howard County and beyond. While Big Give participants collectively directed $26,000 in funding through the WGC's Big Give 2026, we know the need and opportunity for support continues well beyond one evening of grantmaking.

Each of these nonprofit partners is doing meaningful work in our community, and there are many ways to help. Community members can make a donation, volunteer, attend an event, share their work with others, connect them to new supporters, or simply take time to learn more about the challenges they are addressing and the impact they are making.
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The Big Give is about more than grantmaking. It is about learning, connecting, and building a stronger community of informed and engaged philanthropists. We hope this list serves as a resource for anyone interested in supporting organizations working every day on behalf of women, girls, and families in our community.

2026 Big Give Proposal Highlights:

• The Arc of Howard County – Supporting scholarships and professional development opportunities for women Direct Support Professionals serving adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
• Athelas Institute – Providing a women’s empowerment program for adult women with intellectual and developmental disabilities focused on confidence, wellness, and self-advocacy.
• Ballet After Dark, Inc. – Offering trauma-informed menstrual health education and sewing workshops where participants create reusable menstrual products.
• The Black Executive Directors Network – Supporting wellness and leadership programming for Black women nonprofit leaders through the TheraTea Wellness & Leadership Series.
• Bridges to Housing Stability – Providing direct financial assistance to help single female-headed households remain safely and stably housed.
• Center for Creative Life and Learning – Expanding Girls on Fire leadership and parent mentorship programming for girls and families in Howard County.
• Columbia Housing Center – Helping women and families using housing vouchers afford move-in and housing stabilization costs.
• Community Action Council of Howard County – Supporting the development of the Cornerstone of Opportunity campus combining food assistance and early childhood education services.
• Ethiopian Community Empowerment Center – Providing tutoring, mentorship, and leadership opportunities for immigrant girls and young women.
• Get On the Bus, Inc. – Expanding free soccer, mentorship, tutoring, and wellness programming for girls at Howard County Title I schools.
• Gilchrist Hospice Care – Providing compassionate hospice charity care for under-resourced women at the Gilchrist Center Howard County.
• Girls on the Run of Central Maryland – Expanding access to confidence-building, mental wellness, and physical activity programming for girls across Howard County.
• Grassroots Crisis Intervention Center – Providing gas cards and transportation assistance for women and female-headed households in crisis.
• A Home of Our Own Howard – Furnishing homes with essential household items and furniture for women and families transitioning to stable housing.
• Homewood Center (HCPSS) – Supporting leadership, life skills, wellness, and mentorship programming for adolescent girls.
• HopeWorks – Supporting survivors of sexual and intimate partner violence through wellness resources, holistic health grants, and trauma-informed care.
• Howard Community College Educational Foundation – Expanding the Jill of All Trades program introducing young women to careers in the skilled trades.
• Johns Hopkins Howard County Medical Center Foundation – Providing educational forums and resources focused on menstrual and reproductive health for adolescent girls.
• Laurel Advocacy & Referral Services (LARS) – Supporting afterschool enrichment opportunities for girls and childcare assistance for working mothers.
• Leadership Howard County – Providing scholarships and leadership development opportunities for young women through Leadership U.
• Luminus Network – Offering immigration legal services and support for immigrant women, girls, and families.
• MakingChange, Inc. – Delivering financial literacy, counseling, and economic empowerment programming for women and girls.
• Mediation and Conflict Resolution Center – Launching a restorative leadership and conflict resolution program for middle school girls.
• My Covenant Place – Providing trauma-informed healing, wellness, and support services for women affected by violence and trauma.
• Neighbor Ride – Expanding transportation access and caregiver support for senior women in Howard County.
• Ohana of Howard County – Offering emotional wellness, mentorship, and leadership development programming for high school girls.
• Rebuilding Together Howard County – Completing critical home repairs and accessibility improvements for a low-income senior woman through the She Builds program.
• Respite Retreats – Providing therapeutic retreat experiences for women living with Stage IV cancer.
• Sacral Roots – Training peer support doulas and expanding maternal mental health support for postpartum mothers.
• Sisters for Health – Empowering girls of color through fitness, nutrition, wellness, and leadership programming.
• Springboard Community Services – Expanding mental health access and direct assistance for women facing barriers to care.
• Touch Stones Financial Wellness Services – Providing culturally responsive financial education and counseling for women and girls.
• Trinity Maternal Wellness – Expanding prenatal and postpartum education, maternal wellness support, and essential resources for mothers and families.
• TurnAround, Inc. – Supporting survivors of violence and human trafficking through direct services, emergency assistance, and reentry support programming.
• The Village in Howard – Creating intergenerational wellness and connection opportunities for women through the HER Circle initiative.
• Voices for Children, Inc. – Providing household essentials and communication tools for girls and young women transitioning out of foster care.
• Winter Growth, Inc. – Offering respite care scholarships and adult day care subsidies supporting women caregivers and older adults.

The Women’s Giving Circle of Howard County was proud to be part of last evening’s Spring Party hosted by the Community Foundation of Howard County at the beautiful Elkridge Furnace Inn!

As a fund of the Community Foundation, WGC is deeply connected to CFHC’s mission and impact across Howard County. As part of the CFHC family, WGC joined donors, nonprofit leaders, and community partners in celebrating the power of connection, generosity, and local philanthropy.

Thank you to CFHC for a wonderful evening celebrating generosity, partnership, and community connection. We are proud to be part of this work together!

Read more on the CFHC website about the event here

Wow, what a night to kick off the WGC’s Big Give 2026!

The Women’s Giving Circle’s Big Give is more than a two-night experience - it’s a dynamic, hands-on opportunity for women to learn, connect, and engage in meaningful grantmaking to support women and girls in Howard County.

Now in its fifth year, the Big Give continues to grow in both participation and impact.

This year, 50 women have come together, giving individually and as teams, to collectively invest $26,000 in local nonprofits. Over the past five years, more than 220 women have participated in the WGC's Big Give, with many returning year after year and helping to build a strong, connected community of collective giving, directing more than $120,000 to organizations serving women and girls in our community.

At Monday evening’s kickoff session, participants connected through what moves them, explored the broader landscape of philanthropy in the United States, and engaged in thoughtful discussion as they reviewed this year’s proposals, guided by WGC Big Give 2026 Co-Chairs Laura Bacon and Kashonna Marrow.

As a fund of the Community Foundation of Howard County, WGC is proud to be part of a strong and enduring partnership that supports our work. CFHC President and CEO Melissa Curtin reflected on the power of collective giving and CFHC’s role in supporting WGC from the very beginning - laying the foundation for nearly 25 years of impact as we approach this milestone anniversary next year. We are especially grateful to Dee Athey, CFHC Director of Grants and Community Engagement, for thoughtfully facilitating our grantmaking process.

• “The Big Give is such a powerful example of what happens when women come together with intention and purpose,” said Laura Bacon, WGC Big Give Co-Chair. “It’s not just about the dollars we give - it’s about the conversations, the learning, and the shared commitment to making a difference in our community.”

We were also honored to welcome Congresswoman Sarah Elfreth, who joined us to share her perspective on the importance of this work and the impact of women coming together through collective giving.

After reviewing 37 Letters of Interest, participants selected this year’s finalists through a collaborative and engaging process. They will reconvene next week to hear directly from those organizations and make final grant decisions.

• “What makes this experience so meaningful is that everyone has a voice in the process,” said Kashonna Marrow, WGC Big Give Co-Chair. “We’re bringing together different perspectives, asking thoughtful questions, and learning from one another as we decide how to invest in women and girls in our community.”

In addition to the Big Give, the WGC's Young Women’s Giving Circle (YWGC) is also participating in the grantmaking process through the Mini Give. YWGC interns have reviewed the same proposals and will announce their own grant award at next week’s session.

• “The level of engagement and insight our YWGC interns have brought to this process has been inspiring,” said Paula Seabright, WGC Grants Committee Co-Chair and YWGC Chair. “They’ve taken this responsibility seriously and are already demonstrating the power of the next generation of philanthropists. I can’t wait for them to share their decision next week.”

The WGC's Big Give is about more than grantmaking - it’s about building a community of women who are learning, giving, listening, sharing, connecting, and leading together through the power of collective philanthropy. Participants will gather again next week to hear from finalists, make final grant decisions, and celebrate the impact they are creating together.

​Stay tuned for the announcement of this year’s grant recipients and award amounts. You can learn more about the Women’s Giving Circle and the Big Give here, and view photos from the kickoff event below.

​By Rayna Hasan

Thank you to everyone who came out in the early morning to support the Women's Giving Circle/Young Women's Giving Circle's "Break the Cycle" Period Product Drive Up & Drop off!!

Sporting our cowbells and handclappers in pink, YWGC interns collected period products from our schools, donors and the many volunteers who dropped by to lend their support to Howard County's women and girls! We were so grateful to receive visits from multiple delegates, including Del. Natalie Ziegler, Del. Pam Guzzone and Del. Jessica Feldmark!

As part of the Young Women's Giving Circle (YWGC), we are guided by the Women's Giving Circle of Howard County (WGC) in learning about and combating period poverty and women's health. Along the way, we have learned about the impact of collective action, philanthropy, and community and how to leverage them in order to make change. The "Break the Cycle" Period Product Drive Up & Drop Off is a prime example of this, with the donations going to HCPSS community schools. 

HCPSS community schools often have to rely on teachers, nurses, or other outside sources for access to period products. The many products donated through WGC's drive will support menstrual health for Howard County students and households alike. 

If you are interested in supporting our drive, you can donate directly to our Amazon Wish List - thank you!

Thank you to all those who supported WGC's drive, including our YWGC interns, WGC leaders, donors, volunteers, and our many elected officials, candidates, and moms who came out to contribute to the cause! We appreciate all of you!

There are moments when you can truly see the power of community in action - and today was one of them.

The Women’s Giving Circle’s Young Women’s Giving Circle (YWGC) Period Product Drive Up & Drop Off was an incredible success, but even more meaningful was the leadership on display. This single photo captured it beautifully: young women leading the way, standing alongside WGC leadership and elected officials like Del. Jessica Feldmark and Del. Pam Guzzone - all united in support of women and girls in our community.

This image reflects something powerful. It shows what happens when the next generation steps forward, when community leaders stand beside them, and when we come together around an issue that matters. Menstrual equity is not just about products - it’s about dignity, access, and opportunity. And today, that commitment was clear.

“What stood out most today was the way our community showed up - young leaders, WGC members, and elected officials all coming together around an effort that is simple, meaningful, and impactful for women and girls,” said Paula Seabright, WGC Grants Committee Co-Chair and Chair of the Young Women’s Giving Circle.

For more than two decades, the Women’s Giving Circle of Howard County has been building a community of philanthropists to address the needs of women and girls. Through grantmaking, advocacy, and engagement, WGC has invested over $1.3 million back into the community - supporting nonprofit partners who are doing this important work every day.

The Young Women’s Giving Circle is a powerful extension of that mission. These high school students are not only learning about philanthropy - they are leading it. Through initiatives like the “Break the Cycle” Period Product Drive, they are raising awareness, mobilizing resources, and taking action to address period poverty right here in Howard County.

Over the years, this effort has grown into a meaningful community-wide initiative - collecting thousands of pounds of period products and raising critical funds to ensure that our nonprofit partners can meet the needs of the women and girls they serve.

“Today is a powerful reminder that when young women are given the opportunity to lead, they rise, and they bring our entire community with them. This work is about more than collecting products - it’s about dignity, equity, and ensuring every woman and girl has what she needs to thrive,” said Lee Draminski, WGC Secretary.

Today was a reflection of that impact - and a reminder of what is possible when we lead together.

If you weren’t able to join us, there’s still time to be part of this effort. Donations are still being accepted to support the purchase of period products for our nonprofit partners who serve women and girls across our community.

You can donate to the YWGC here and/or you can donate directly to our Amazon Wish List here - thank you!

Together, we can continue to break the cycle, and ensure that every woman and girl has access to the basic necessities she deserves. Thank you for your support!

Hello!

I hope you are doing well. On behalf of the Women’s Giving Circle of Howard County, I’m reaching out to invite you to support our upcoming period product drive on April 18. This community effort aims to collect essential menstrual products for individuals and families in Howard County Public School Community Schools who may not have reliable access to them.
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Access to period products is a basic necessity, yet many students and community members experience “period poverty,” which can affect school attendance, health, and dignity. Through this drive, we hope to both raise awareness and provide meaningful, direct support to those in need.

We would be honored to have your support in any of the following ways:

• Sharing the drive with your constituents or on social media
• Donating period products (pads, tampons, liners, etc.)
• Helping promote the event within the community
• Attending the drive or recognizing the initiative publicly

The period product drive will take place on April 18 at Howard Community College in parking lot B from 9:00 to 11:00 AM. We would greatly appreciate any support you can offer to help make this effort successful. Your involvement would help amplify awareness and ensure more community members have access to these essential items.

Please let me know if you would like additional information or are interested in participating. Thank you for your time and consideration, and for your continued service to our community.

If you are unable to attend our drive but would still like to donate period products, we encourage you to make a donation using our Amazon Wish List. Products are shipped to the chair of the intern program, Paula Seabright. She will then distribute them to our non-profit partners for their clients. 

Sincerely,

Allison Nichols
WGC's Young Women’s Giving Circle of Howard County

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."

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!

• Join The Big Give - our collaborative grantmaking experience. The deadline to sign up is April 17.
• Support our Young Women’s Giving Circle - by participating in our next Break the Cycle Period Product Drive on April 18, donating to purchase products, or purchase items on our Amazon Wish List

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 (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.

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!