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WGC OF HOWARD COUNTY
  • Home
  • About
    • WGC Mission, Vision, Values, Goals
    • WGC Advisory Board
    • WGC Committees
    • WGC 2023-2026 Strategic Plan
    • WGC Diversity, Equity & Inclusion
    • WGC is a Fund of the Community Foundation of Howard County
    • WGC - 20 Years at a Glance
    • WGC Herstory
    • WGC - Get Involved
  • Give
    • WGC's 4 Distinct Ways to Give >
      • WGC Community Member >
        • WGC In Her Honor >
          • In Honor and Memory of WGC Supporter Jackie Melonas
        • WGC Core Support
        • WGC Impact 2024
      • WGC Sponsor Member >
        • Thank You 2025 Sponsors!
        • Thank You 2024 Sponsors!
        • Thank You 2023 Sponsors!
        • Thank You 2022 Sponsors!
      • WGC Legacy Member
      • WGC Big Give Member >
        • WGC Big Give $1,200 Individual Donation
        • WGC Big Give $1,200 Team Donation
        • WGC Big Give Process and Grantmaking Guidelines
    • WGC's Emergency Response Network
    • WGC's "Break the Cycle" Period Product Drive
    • WGC's Barb Van Winkle Leadership Fund
  • Grants
  • Events
  • News
    • WGC's State of Women and Girls in Howard County
    • WGC's Our Giving, Our Stories Series >
      • Monthly OGOS Profiles
      • Black Philanthropy Month OGOS Profiles
      • OGOS Nominations
    • WGC's 20 Years, 20 Stories
    • WGC's (S)hero Mosaic
  • Blog
  • Contact

3 Questions With ... Philanthropist Valerie Montague in Honor of Black History Month - WGC's Our Giving, Our Stories

2/13/2025

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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 Valerie Montague in Honor of Black History Month.

​
Read Valerie Montague's full profile here

What advice do you have for those interested in giving back?

"Find something that resonates with you and that makes you feel good when you share it with others. Whether you mentor young people, testify about legislation, volunteer at a food pantry, lead book clubs or donate to charity, you are helping others in impactful ways that make our community better. And, in Howard County, whichever way you prefer to give back, there is an organization, emotional space, and/or physical place for you to do so. ​"

​Valerie supports the following:
​
  • Columbia Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.
  • League of Women Voters of Howard County
  • Howard County Human Rights Commission

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.

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Harnessing the Strength of our Community

2/4/2025

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Collective giving thrives on the power of community-based organizations—our nonprofit partners, who are closest to those in need and play a vital role in our society. Yet, in the last week, the nonprofit community has been rocked by confusion and concern following executive orders from the current administration, with further policy changes looming that could impact the entire social sector and our most vulnerable communities.

The Women's Giving Circle of Howard County is monitoring these recent actions - as a fund that is building a community of philanthropists to address the needs of women and girls in Howard County, we are committed to engaging in conversations and partnerships that leverage our voices and collective power to support our community.

Here are three ways you can make a difference during these challenging times to support the nonprofit community:

  • Stay Informed: Keep up with the latest policy developments and understand their impact on the nonprofit sector. Knowledge empowers us to act wisely and effectively. The National Council of Nonprofits has a continuously updated chart tracking Executive Orders that impact nonprofits and their current legal status.
 
  • Support with Unrestricted Funds: Consider providing flexible funding that nonprofits can use where they are needed most, especially those who will experience funding gaps due to the changes, allowing them to respond swiftly to emerging challenges.
 
  • Advocate with Community Partners: Stand in solidarity with local organizations and community advocates to defend and promote policies that strengthen our social safety net.

Now is the moment to unite our efforts and harness the strength of our community. Together, we can turn challenges into opportunities and ensure that our nonprofit partners have the support they need.

Join us.

* Adapted from our partners at Philanthropy Together


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WGC's "Break the Cycle" Period Product Drive Delivers Products to HCPSS

1/29/2025

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One of WGC's "Break the Cycle" Period Product Drive interns picked up a car full of products today from our partners at the Howard County Library System and dropped them off to our partners at Howard County Public School System.

We are honored to work in partnership with so many to support women and girls in our community. 

Learn more about WGC's "Break the Cycle" Period Product Drive here.
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WGC Emergency Response Network Request - $1,000 - Can You Help?

1/28/2025

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The Women’s Giving Circle of Howard County invites you to join with us to raise at least $1,000 to support our partners at HopeWorks through the WGC's Emergency Response Network (ERN).

HopeWorks ​has a client who is a survivor of Intimate Partner Violence (IPV) who is in need of at least $1,000 for a security deposit to secure safe and stable housing.

Following a physical incident with her abusive partner, ​this client fled for her safety and has been staying in a hotel for the past several months, using her personal funds to cover the costs. She has found new housing and the total amount needed to cover the security deposit is $2,050.

HopeWorks is able to contribute $1,050, and we are ​
​h​oping to raise at least $1,000 to help cover the remaining balance.


​Can you help?

Any amount is valued and appreciated!

Thank you,

Jennifer Bodensiek, WGC Chair
Candace Dodson-Reed, WGC Grants Committee Chair
​Alison Canning, WGC ERN Chair
Buffy Beaudoin-Schwartz, WGC Executive Director
www.womensgivingcircle.org​
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January 2025 WGC eNews

1/23/2025

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new year, lots going on.

Happy New Year!


We are ready for the year ahead and the opportunities we have to bring us all together to learn, share, connect, and pool our dollars to support women and girls in our community. We appreciate the importance of building community and being there for one another, now more than ever.

To that end, I hope you will join us at our upcoming WGC Annual Celebration & Pink Party on Tuesday, March 4, 5:30 - 7:30 pm - at Howard Community College, where we will discuss "The Continuum of Women's Health and How Philanthropy Can Help" with Keynote Speaker Elizabeth Edsall Kromm, PhD, Director of the Prevention and Health Promotion Administration for the Maryland Department of Health. You can purchase tickets and/or sponsor here - see you soon!

READ THE FULL ENEWSLETTER HERE

There are numerous additional ways to support the WGC - from donating to WGC's Break the Cycle Period Product Drive, to supporting a woman in need through WGC's Emergency Response Network, to becoming a WGC 2025 Sponsor, to joining the WGC's 2025 Big Give, to leaving a Legacy Gift to the WGC ... and more. Any gift, of any size, is valued and appreciated!


This, is the power of our giving circle.

Thank you for all you do to support women and girls. 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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WGC's 2024 Grants - Over $88,000 Invested in Our Community

1/14/2025

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The WGC is a fund that gives grants … it’s what we do!

  • We have been part of the Howard County community for 23 over years. We are proud to be a fund of the Community Foundation of Howard County.
  • We have given over $1,200,000 to our nonprofit partners in Howard County since our inception.
  • Learn more about WGC's grantmaking here.
  • Learn more about the WGC's Emergency Response Network here.

WGC's Grants Committee recommends our grantmaking each year based on our long-standing nonprofit partnerships, as well as new partners - all under our six funding areas as developed in The WGC's State of Women and Girls in Howard County:

  • Demographics and Diversity 
  • Work and the Economy 
  • Education and Educators 
  • Health and Wellbeing
  • Safety and Justice 
  • Leadership and Political Participation
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"We are proud to support our nonprofit partners on the ground focusing on women, girls, and families in our community." 

​
- Candace Dodson-Reed, 2025 WGC Grants Committee Chair

2024 WGC Grants
Demographics and Diversity 

  • The 3rd: “elevate” Leadership Development Program - $6,000

Education and Educators

  • Connexiones: College Sponsorships for Female Students - $2,000
  • Girls on Fire: Support for Elementary School Girls - $1,000
  • Howard Community College (HCC) HeadStart Educational Empowerment Scholarship - $3,000
  • Howard Community College (HCC) “Women’s Giving Circle” Scholarship - $5,000 
  • Howard Community College (HCC) WGC “Dream Fund” for Books - $500
  • Philanthropy Together: We Give Summit - $500

​​​​Health and Wellbeing 

  • Autism Society of Maryland: ERN Support for a Female Client in Need - $1,000
  • Community Ecology Institute: General Support for Health and Wellness Programs - $1,000
  • Get on the Bus: Support for Girls to Participate - $1,500
  • Girls on the Run: WGC Big Give Support for Sneakers and Equipment for Girls - $4,000
  • Girls on the Run: Curriculum for Middle School Aged Girls - $3,000
  • JustLiving Advocacy: ERN Support for Female Clients in Need - $1,00
  • JustLiving Advocacy: ERN Support for a Female Client in Need - $1,260
  • JustLiving Advocacy: Support for "Listen to Your Mother" Event - $3,000
  • Sobar: Certification for Inclusive Events - $500

Leadership and Political Participation 
​
  • Howard County Leadership U: Scholarships for Female Participants - $2,000
Safety and Justice ​
​​
  • Bridges to Housing Stability - ERN Support for a Female Client in Need - $2,600
  • Columbia Housing Center: ERN Support for a Female Client in Need - $2,304
  • Columbia Housing Center: WGC Big Give Support  - $10,000
  • Grassroots: WGC Big Give Support  - $6,000
  • Grassroots: ERN Support for a Female Client in Need - $1,700
  • HopeWorks: ERN Support for a Female Client in Need - $1,400
  • ​HopeWorks: ERN Support for a Female Client in Need - $2,000
  • HopeWorks: ERN Support for a Female Client in Need - $2,000
  • HopeWorks: Supporting Women Survivors - $1,000
  • Leora Dorsey Community Resource Center: ERN Support for a Female Client in Need - $650
  • Leora Dorsey Community Resource Center: ERN Support for a Female Client in Need - $1,000
  • Neighbor Ride: Rides for Senior Women - $1,000
  • Tuerk House: WGC Big Give Support  - $4,000
  • TurnAround: Fighting Sex Trafficking - $2,000
  
​Work and the Economy 
​
  • Business Women’s Network: Lifelong Learner Scholarship - $1,500
  • Community Foundation of Howard County: WGC Porch Naming - $4,000
  • Howard Community College (HCC) WorkForce Development Trades Center Building/Capital Campaign - $1,000 
  • Junior Achievement of Central Maryland: JA Rising Women - $10,000
  • JustLiving Advocacy: WorkHER Program - $3,500
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3 Questions With ... Philanthropist Dr. Abbie Diane Martin in Honor of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day - WGC's Our Giving, Our Stories

1/14/2025

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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. Abbie Diane Martin in Honor of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day.

​
Read Dr. Abbie Diane Martin's full profile here

What advice do you have for those interested in giving back?

"Connect with others who have the same passion. Look for a need and work with others to find solutions. Then develop a plan to address the need. There is plenty of work to be done - so jump into the vineyard and get involved in a cause that you know will make a difference for one or many.​"

​Dr. Abbie Diane Martin supports the following:


  • The Columbia (MD) Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated
  • The Columbia (MD) Chapter of the Links
  • St. John Baptist Church

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.

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WGC Playing a Role in Supporting the National and Regional Philanthropic Sector

1/13/2025

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As we begin the new year, we are proud that the WGC continues to play a role in leading the national women’s collective giving movement and the growth of the philanthropic sector overall.

WGC Executive Director, Buffy Beaudoin-Schwartz, and our Immediate Past Chair, Barb Van Winkle currently serve on the Board of Philanos, the national women’s collective giving organization. 
Philanos’ mission is to support and strengthen women's collective giving organizations through education and collaboration designed to promote women's philanthropy and informed, impactful grant making in communities. Barb serves on the Executive Committee as the Treasurer and Buffy is the co-Chair of the Communications Committee. Philanos hosts monthly webinars and regular Affinity Group virtual meetings that all WGC donors are invited to attend! Learn more here.

In October 2024, WGC leaders worked on a national level to bring attention and resources to underserved communities through collective giving by participating in multiple convenings and educational experiences  with the Philanos Board of Directors in Mississippi and Alabama. This trip provided an unprecedented opportunity for the Philanos Board, and for Barb and Buffy to learn about the history and current conditions in the South, and how we can help elevate community-centric giving in the region, and they are brought this learning and knowledge to the WGC to inform our ongoing work.

​"We were proud to be among those working nationally to bring additional attention and resources to underserved communities" said Barb Van Winkle, Immediate Past WGC Chair. "We will continue to support this important work and bring what we learn to the Women's Giving Circle."

The WGC was honored to co-host the 2023 Philanos PowerUP! Baltimore National Conference, which brought together hundreds of leaders in the women's collective giving movement to learn, share, network, and connect together. Numerous WGC leaders played a role in the success of this conference, including serving as panelists and facilitators for the gathering. And, WGC's Malynda Madzel was awarded the prestigious national Willoughby Award at the conference for her efforts to change the status quo for philanthropy in our community. WGC will play a role in coordinating the upcoming 2026 Philanos PowerUP! Texas National Conference - mark your calendars!

Buffy also serves on the national Steering Committee for this year’s Philanthropy Together We Give Summit May 13-15, 2025. Philanthropy Together is a global initiative, co-created by hundreds of collective giving leaders, to scale and strengthen the growing movement. They are on a mission to diversify and democratize philanthropy. Buffy, Barb, and other WGC leaders have served on We Give Summit panels in the past, sharing about WGC's efforts, and learning from others.

Buffy currently serves on the September 2025 Maryland Philanthropy Network Annual Member Gathering planning committee. MPN's mission is to build and activate a diverse, informed, and effective network of philanthropists to inspire transformational impact throughout Maryland.

"We are honored to be learning, sharing, and connecting with other women's collective giving leaders across the country who are rolling up their sleeves and doing this important work" said WGC Executive Director Buffy Beaudoin-Schwartz. "We are proud to be a part of Philanos, Philanthropy Together, and the Maryland Philanthropy Network and participating in important efforts while representing the WGC and we will continue to help do this work nationally, regionally, and here in our community."

We are proud that WGC leaders are playing a role in leading the growth of the national women's collective giving movement and the national and regional philanthropic sector overall, which ultimately supports and uplifts all we are collectively doing here in Howard County.

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WGC Welcomes New 2025 WGC Advisory Board Members!

1/1/2025

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Women’s Giving Circle of Howard County Announces New Leadership

The Women’s Giving Circle of Howard County is very pleased to announce the addition of three new members to its Advisory Board, as well as the full slate of Executive Committee and Advisory Board members for 2025. 

The newly elected Advisory Board members are Shaundra Turner Jones, Yolanda Sonnier, and Robin Stimson.

“We are thrilled to welcome these incredibly talented women, each of whom bring diverse experience and unique backgrounds to the Women’s Giving Circle” said WGC Advisory Board Chair Jennifer Bodensiek. 

As well, we are very grateful to Adora Brown, April Force Pardoe, and Barbara Peart, whose terms are ending on the WGC Advisory Board after years of dedicated leadership and service. “Adora, April, and Barbara have deep community knowledge and a true passion for philanthropy” said Jennifer Bodensiek. “We have been fortunate to have them by our side as we work to shape the future for women and girls in Howard County through the power of collective giving”.

The WGC is honoring Adora, April, and Barbara for all that they have done and will continue to do for the WGC through the WGC’s Barb Van Winkle Leadership Fund. This is a fund honoring former WGC Chair Barb Van Winkle and all WGC leaders, and we invite gifts in honor of WGC women's philanthropic leadership the last 23 years with a gift in her/their honor.

Shaundra Turner Jones
Shaundra Turner Jones is Principal and Founder of STJ PR, Communications & Consulting, LLC. As an outcomes-driven strategic communications leader with extensive corporate communications, public relations, media relations, crisis management, public affairs, foundation and reputation management experience, her inclusive approach to problem solving consistently produces top-tier results for clients. This proven PR maven leverages relationships, strategic communications and effective public relations to support business growth. As a trusted partner to chief executives and senior leadership, she brings a keen sense of audience understanding, creativity, an ability to see blind spots, discretion and sound judgment to successfully navigate challenges and grow the business. Shaundra is an advocate of positively impacting the community through service. She and her family take pride in giving back and helping others. Learn more

Yolanda Sonnier
Yolanda F. Sonnier is the Administrator at the Office of Human Rights and Equity for Howard County Government. She also serves as the President of the Maryland Association of Human Relations/Rights Agencies (MAHRA). In this leadership role she serves on the Maryland Commission on Hate Crime Response and Prevention out of the Office of Maryland Attorney General Anthony G. Brown. Yolanda feels strongly that human rights and equity is only accomplished in communities where all persons are engaged. She is passionate about engaging with the next generation, believes that we need the strength, innovation, passion, and excitement of our young people, and  believes that teaching human rights and equity transforms our communities for the better. Learn more

Robin Stimson
Robin M. Stimson is the Community Engagement Manager at Columbia Association (CA). In her role, she spearheads initiatives that position the organization as a leader and key partner in Columbia, Maryland. Robin is passionate about advancing the CA mission and vision by helping to develop and maintain policy, service standards and protocols around programs and outreach. Robin has a Bachelor of Arts and Humanities in History from the University of Maryland College Park, as well as a master’s degree in social work from the University of Maryland Baltimore. She credits her social work experience as key in her ability to advocate, educate and facilitate connection. Robin believes in the power of community to cultivate essential resources and programs for those in need, which includes educational workshops, grassroots advocacy, multimedia content, tailored peer support and innovative workplace change initiatives at local, state and national levels. Learn more

The Women’s Giving Circle is building a community of philanthropists to address the needs of women and girls in Howard County. We bring women together to learn about issues impacting women and girls in our community, and pool our dollars to fund programs that address those issues so we can have a greater impact together than we might otherwise have alone. 

We have been part of the Howard County community for 22+ years, have given $1.2 M+ to our nonprofit partners and we have a $1.1 M endowment from 1,700+ donors that will ensure that there are funds to support women and girls in our community in perpetuity. 

The full 2025 slate of WGC Executive Committee and Advisory Board members are:

Executive Committee:

  • Jennifer Bodensiek, Chair
  • Candace Dodson-Reed, Vice Chair and Grants Committee Chair 
  • Barb Van Winkle, Immediate Past Chair
  • Lynne Schaefer, Treasurer and Finance Committee Chair
  • Lee Draminski, Secretary
  • Jessica Moreno, Governance Committee Chair
  • Kashonna Marrow, Membership & Development Committee Chair
  • Jade McDuffie McClary, Events Committee Chair
  • Buffy Beaudoin-Schwartz, Executive Director *Ex Officio

Advisory Board Members:

  • Laura Bacon
  • Alison Canning
  • Maxine Clark 
  • Cheryl Gray 
  • Shaundra Turner Jones
  • Mary Jordan
  • Kim Lightfoot
  • Paula Seabright
  • Yolanda Sonnier
  • Robin Stimson
  • Nette’ Stokes 
  • Beverly White-Seals, President & CEO, Community Foundation of Howard County Liaison ​

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There's still time to give a gift to the WGC in 2024!

12/31/2024

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There's still time to give a gift to the WGC in 2024!

  • Are you interested in sponsoring the WGC throughout 2025, which includes tickets to our 3/4/25 Annual Celebration & Pink Party? Learn more
 
  • Would you like to join as an individual or a team for our May 2025 WGC Big Give so you can join with others to invest in local nonprofit partners and have a greater impact together? Join here
​
  • Or maybe you want to give an end of year gift to support all the great things the WGC is doing to support women and girls in Howard County? Give here
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We have lots of options to make an impact, and 1 final day to give to the WGC in 2024. Thank you for your generosity!
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WGC Emergency Response Network Request: $1,000 - Can You Help?

12/30/2024

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The Women’s Giving Circle of Howard County invites you to join with us to raise at least $1,000 to support our partners at HopeWorks through the WGC's Emergency Response Network (ERN).

HopeWorks ​has a shelter client who is in need of at least $1,000 for a security deposit and toward her first month's rent for a rental property she recently found.

This client entered the shelter in early October 2024 due to experiencing intimate partner violence with her spouse. She currently has physical and legal custody of her granddaughter, and she has recently been offered safe, stable housing through Bridges to Housing Stability for herself, and her granddaughter once she exits from the emergency shelter. 

In order for her to secure safe and stable housing, she will need at least $1,000 in financial assistance to help toward the security deposit and first month’s rent.

The total needed to fully pay for both is $3,000.

Can you help?

Any amount is valued and appreciated!

Thank you,

Jennifer Bodensiek, WGC Chair
Candace Dodson-Reed, WGC Grants Committee Chair
​Alison Canning, WGC ERN Chair
Buffy Beaudoin-Schwartz, WGC Executive Director
www.womensgivingcircle.org​
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WGC's 2024 Year in Review

12/30/2024

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WGC is Featured in New National Giving Circle Report - Patterns in the Tapestry: A Typology of Collective Giving Groups

12/18/2024

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The Women's Giving Circle of Howard County is featured in the new national research report Patterns in the Tapestry: A Typology of Collective Giving Groups, published today!

  • You can read the WGC's feature information here​
  • You can read the full report here

"We are honored to be featured in this important national research" said Buffy Beaudoin-Schwartz, WGC's Executive Director and Board Member of Philanos. "This typology overview will inform the field for years to come - for those interested in starting a collective giving group, and for those interested in growing, nurturing, and sustaining them."

Drawing on research covered in In Abundance: An Analysis of the Thriving Landscape of Collective Giving in the U.S., this report by Philanthropy Together and Dorothy A. Johnson Center for Philanthropy delves deeper into the various types of collective giving groups and serves as a practical resource for giving circles to launch or refine existing structure and processes. 

"The Women's Giving Circle has utilized national research about collective giving throughout our 23 years of growth" said Jennifer Bodensiek, WGC Chair. "We look forward to taking the findings of this new research and applying them to our efforts to continue to strengthen and grow our circle."
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For those interested, you can join the co-authors for a webinar on Thursday, January 23 at Noon ET / 9AM PT as they share findings from the report, along with practical guidance on how you can use the report.

​Read the report and register at 
http://collective.giving/#typology
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Empower Change with an End-of-Year Gift to the WGC!

12/17/2024

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Friends,

As we approach the end of another remarkable year, we reflect on the impact the Women's Giving Circle of Howard County has made on the lives of women and girls in our community.

Your dedication to philanthropy has been the driving force behind the positive change we've achieved together.

And, as we stand on the brink of a new year filled with both challenges and potential opportunities, we invite your support with an end-of-year gift to the WGC.

We have a $5,000 year-end fundraising goal. Will you join us?

Your support has been instrumental in empowering women and girls in our community, and with your help, we can continue to drive positive change in the new year.

Why Give Before Year-End?
​
  1. Maximize Your Impact: Every dollar you contribute by December 31st will be maximized through matching funds and strategic partnerships, ensuring your investment goes even further in supporting our community.
  2. Year-End Reflection: Take a moment to reflect on the positive change you've been a part of this year. Your generosity has helped create opportunities for women and girls in Howard County.
  3. Tax Deductibility: Your donation is not only an investment in our community but also an opportunity to benefit from potential tax advantages. Please consult with your financial advisor to explore how your year-end contribution can make a difference for you as well.​

How Your Contribution Makes a Difference
​
  • Direct Support for Women: Your support to our Emergency Response Network and Break the Cycle Period Product Drive helps to directly support women and girls in need through our partnerships with local nonprofits on the ground.
  • Investment in Women and Girls Programs: By contributing, you enable us to support a variety of programs that benefit women and girls in our community. By the end of this year we will have invested approximately $100,000 to make a difference - we are having a greater impact together than we might otherwise have alone.
  • Community Building: Your donation is helping to grow a community of women philanthropists and strengthen our community partnerships for greater change - we truly are stronger together.
WGC's 2024 Year in Review

We have accomplished a lot in 2024! Take a look at 10 highlights of our efforts this year, and 5 opportunities for growth in 2025. Learn more here. 

And, we are proud that our efforts continue to be recognized nationally. In fact, WGC is featured in new national research that was published today, Patterns in the Tapestry: A Typology of Collective Giving Groups. You can see WGC's snapshot and read the full report here.

Donate Today!
​
  • Make your contribution here before the year ends. Together, let's continue the momentum and create a brighter future for the women and girls of Howard County.
  • Your commitment to the Women's Giving Circle has been instrumental in shaping a better tomorrow. As we embark on a new year, let's build upon our successes and pave the way for even greater achievements with a final gift to the WGC.

Thank you for your unwavering support!
​

Sincerely,

Jennifer Bodensiek, WGC Chair
Candace Dodson-Reed, WGC Vice Chair
Kashonna Marrow, WGC Membership & Development Committee Chair
Buffy Beaudoin-Schwartz, WGC Executive Director
www.womensgivingcircle.org
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WGC eNewsletter - December 2024

12/11/2024

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thank you.

As we celebrate the holiday season I want to thank all of you - our WGC community.

Read the full eNewsletter here


I am grateful to our Advisory Board, our Executive Director, our past leadership, and all of you - our growing community of donors, grantees, partners, and all those who are making a bigger difference together than we might otherwise make alone through collective giving.

One way many women are doing this is through an end-of-year gift to the WGC.

There are numerous ways to support the WGC - from donating to WGC's Break the Cycle Period Product Drive, to supporting a woman in need through WGC's Emergency Response Network, to becoming a WGC 2025 Sponsor, to joining the WGC 2025 Big Give, to leaving a Legacy Gift to the WGC ... and more. Any gift, of any size, is valued and appreciated!


This, is the power of our giving circle.

Thank you for your consideration of a year-end gift. Please contact WGC Executive Director Buffy Beaudoin-Schwartz with any questions.

Happy Holidays!

Jennifer Bodensiek
WGC Advisory Board Chair
[email protected]
www.womensgivingcircle.org

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WGC Leaders Honored at CFHoCo's Celebration of Philanthropy!

12/11/2024

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What a night celebrating philanthropy with the Community Foundation of Howard County! The Women's Giving Circle of Howard County was in the house as two of our visionary longtime leaders were honored. Congratulations Jean F. Moon and Alison Canning for all you do for our community, for all you’ve done to grow philanthropy, and in particular, for all you have done and continue to do for The Women’s Giving Circle of Howard County! ​
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WGC Hosts End-of-Year Advisory Board Celebration

12/9/2024

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WGC's Advisory Board got together for an end-of-year gathering, where we toasted a meaningful year supporting women and girls in Howard County. WGC’s Advisory Board = true leadership!
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WGC's Break the Cycle Period Poverty "Drive & Drop"

12/8/2024

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Thank you to everyone who stopped by Howard Community College to drop off period products for our "Break the Cycle" Period Product Drive! We collected enough products today to support HCC's Food Pantry for students for a few months - we appreciate all of the support! Please click here if you are interested in donating and learning more about WGC's Break the Cycle Period Product Drive and the amazing work of our student interns!
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WGC Participates in GOTR 5K!

12/7/2024

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On Saturday, December 7 our WGC Break the Cycle Leadership and Student Interns represented the WGC at the Girls on the Run 5K, and collected period products from participants. Many thanks to all who donated! We are so proud of our partners at GOTR and all of the amazing girls who ran the 5K!
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WGC's "Break the Cycle" Student Interns Discuss Women's Health with Jennifer Holland of The Horizon Foundation

12/4/2024

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Since 2022, the WGC has supported women’s health and highlighted period poverty in Howard County through the WGC’s “Break the Cycle” Period Product Drive, an effort to highlight period poverty through education, donations, fundraising, and grantmaking to support women and girls in Howard County. The WGC has chosen to continue our focus on this important issue because it's a need that is easily and often overlooked and we believe it is time to break the cycle of period poverty”.

This year we are excited to host 7 “Break the Cycle” Student Interns throughout the 2024-2025 school year, who are
 focusing on women’s philanthropy, the continuum of women’s health, and in particular period poverty. 

On Wednesday, December 4 we hosted our monthly, virtual WGC Break the Cycle Student Intern meeting, where we discussed the state of women's healthcare with Guest Speaker Jennifer Holland, Director of Policy and Community Engagement at The Horizon Foundation.

Jennifer discussed the Horizon's focus on women's health, and in particular Maternal and Infant Health, Mental Health, and Health Coverage and Care. Jennifer also discussed how we all can take action to fight for the things we care about, including:


  • Find out who your representatives are
  • Reach out to them, write to them, and set up a time to meet with them
  • Develop relationships with individuals and organizations in the community that align with your values
  • Build coalitions with individuals who have a passion for the things you care about
  • Decide what you want to change and make a plan to change it!

WGC's "Break the Cycle" Student Interns appreciate learning about women's health from a local advocate and will continuing learning and engaging each month on these issues that they care deeply about.

Learn more about WGC's "Break the Cycle" effort here.


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Give $23 to the WGC on Giving Tuesday in Honor of 23 Years!

12/3/2024

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It's Giving Tuesday - a Meaningful Day for YOUR Giving!

A day dedicated to recognizing and supporting the causes, issues, and organizations that you care about. 

On this Giving Tuesday we hope you will consider donating to the WGC with a gift of $23 (or more!) in honor of the 23 years that we have collectively been supporting women and girls in our community. 

​Together, we have given over $1.2 million to our nonprofit partners and we have built a $1.1 million endowment that will ensure there are funds to support women and girls in our community in perpetuity.
This, is the power of our giving circle.

​We know you are hearing from so many worthy organizations today, and we thank you in advance for considering the WGC as part of your plans this Giving Tuesday. We are making a greater difference together than we might otherwise make alone!
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We are grateful for you.

11/26/2024

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Friends,

As we gather during this week of Thanksgiving, we want to take a moment to express our heartfelt gratitude to you.

Your generous support of the Women’s Giving Circle of Howard County has made a significant impact in our community, empowering countless women and families.

We have been part of the Howard County community for over 22 years, and together, we have given over $1.2 million to our nonprofit partners. We have also built a $1.1 million endowment that will ensure there are funds to support women and girls in our community in perpetuity.

This, is the power of our giving circle.

Thank you for your commitment and generosity. We are making a greater difference together than we might otherwise make alone.

We are grateful for you.

Wishing you a wonderful Thanksgiving filled with joy and warmth.


The Women’s Giving Circle of Howard County Advisory Board - Laura Bacon​, Buffy Beaudoin-Schwartz​, Jennifer Bodensiek​, Adora Brown​, Alison Canning​, Maxine Clark​, Candace Dodson-Reed​, Lee Draminski​, Cheryl D. Gray​, Kashonna Marrow​, April Force Pardoe​, Jade McClary​, Barbara Peart​, Lynne Schaefer​, Nette’ Stokes​, Barb Van Winkle​, Beverly White-Seals
thank you for your ongoing support
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WGC Emergency Response Network Request: $500 - Can You Help?

11/21/2024

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The Women’s Giving Circle of Howard County invites you to join with us to raise at least $500 to support our partners at the Leola Dorsey Community Resource Center through the WGC's Emergency Response Network (ERN).

​The Leola Dorsey Community Resource Center ​has a resident who is in need of at least $500 in rental assistance.

Leola Dorsey is a permanent supportive housing community that provides housing and services to single adults who are disabled and chronically homeless. While the rent is subsidized, even residents with no income are required to pay $50 per month per the requirements of the Housing Commission. ​This resident is behind in her rent by $400 and would benefit from ​s​upport of $500 to pay her back rent and​ provide her with two months of grace to insure her stability.

Here is an excerpt of information this resident wanted to share:

"My health is not up to par, and day-by-day, it is hit or miss as I am aging. I take pride in doing my best to be self-reliant and self-sufficient​. Being a woman that is hardworking and extremely athletic by nature has to listen and adhere to my body. It's extremely difficult for me, personally, for I​ have had to come to the realization that my life​ and livelihood has been impacted greatly​. When I want to run, I have to walk. When I want to walk, I have to limp. When I attempt to limp, I have to succumb to utilizing my cane.​ In spite of my health ailments, I am NOT a quitter​. I REFUSE to give up​. Hopefully, this will address why I am ​seeking assistance​.​"

Support of at least $500 from the WGC would help pay her past rent and give her two months of rental support to provide her with some stability.
Can you help?

Any amount is valued and appreciated!


Thank you,

Jennifer Bodensiek, WGC Chair
Candace Dodson-Reed, WGC Grants Committee Chair
​Alison Canning, WGC ERN Chair
Buffy Beaudoin-Schwartz, WGC Executive Director
www.womensgivingcircle.org​
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We are stronger together.

11/12/2024

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Friends,

One week ago today the 2024 election results were announced, marking a turning point that introduces both challenges and potential new opportunities. As we consider the road ahead, the Women’s Giving Circle of Howard County (WGC) remains dedicated to supporting women and girls in our community, regardless of political shifts.

Here's what we know -  we are stronger together:


  • This may be a time of particular concern for women - yet there are also some small victories across the country and here in Maryland, including several historic elections for women on the state and local level.
  • The challenges before us are substantial - but so too is our commitment to uplifting and empowering women and girls through collective giving, and we will continue to stand with our partners across the country to support women and girls.
  • We remain committed - to engaging women who want to pool our dollars so we can have a greater impact together than we might otherwise have alone.
  • Your ongoing partnership and support is critically important - and valued now more than ever as we work together to support our community.
  • Together, we will rise to meet the challenges ahead - this is the power of our giving circle.​
Thank you for standing together as we enter this new chapter.

The Women’s Giving Circle of Howard County Advisory Board
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Questions With ... Philanthropist Mona Lawrence in Honor of National Veterans and Military Families Month - WGC's Our Giving, Our Stories

11/11/2024

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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 Mona Lawrence in Honor of National Veterans and Military Families Month.

​
Read Mona's full profile here

What advice do you have for those interested in giving back?

"I believe that each day that I am fortunate enough to wake up, I must make it a Good Day!  Every day is a new opportunity to do something different or to keep a great thing going. Generosity doesn’t have to be expensive or complicated, start with kindness and a smile!​"

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.

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"Women’s philanthropy shapes the future for women and girls through the power of collective giving​." - Jennifer Woods, Chair
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WGC is proud to be a fund of the
​Community Foundation of Howard County - cfhoco.org

EIN Number: 52-0937644
Find us on Guidestar Here
​​​WGC is a proud member of and partner with local, regional and national philanthropic organizations 
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