What's Your Big Idea, Howard County?! Changemaker Challenge 2021 Applications Due August 29!

Changemaker (n) – One who desires change in the world and, by gathering knowledge and resources, makes that change happen.

The Women's Giving Circle, Horizon Foundation, United Way of Central Maryland, and Community Foundation of Howard County are igniting and recognizing new and continued innovation in our community with the Changemaker Challenge. Think “Shark Tank” for social change! This biennial event awards funding for project ideas that promise to make a difference in Howard County, especially after an unprecedented 2020.​

That’s why our theme for the 2021 Changemaker Challenge is – Innovate. Cultivate. Uplift.

“We are excited to partner with Howard County’s philanthropic community to encourage big ideas that will spark social innovation to better our community through the Changemaker Challenge!” said Barb Van Winkle, WGC Advisory Board Chair.

Despite all the strengths of our community in Howard County, we recognize that many pressing problems continue to persist. Many Howard County households do not earn enough to meet a basic “survival budget” and face barriers beyond their control that limit their ability to become financially stable. Chronic diseases like diabetes disproportionately affect people of color in our community. Public transportation remains a hurdle for residents who need to get to work, school or grocery shopping without a car. The list goes on.

Fortunately, Howard County has a long history of tireless work by many individuals and organizations that have brought creative solutions to some of these pressing problems. With the Changemaker Challenge, we are excited to spark and celebrate new and continued innovation in our community.

We want to hear the best out-of-the-box ideas for social change! 

One of the $10,000 grants will be awarded to an entry for a project created by or serving women and/or girls in Howard County - applications due by August 29!

“Growing philanthropy, engaging community, collective impact, social change, and big ideas – it’s what the Women’s Giving Circle believes in and why we are proud to support the Changemaker Challenge!” said Buffy Beaudoin-Schwartz, WGC Executive Director.

Learn more here and please help spread the word through your networks!

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