The face of philanthropy has begun to change in our country.  There are new, fast growing trends that are allowing more people to become involved with charitable giving and create impact in the places they care about most.  One of the newest trends is women's funds; a chance for women to join together in an engaging and meaningful way and give back to their community.  By combining their financial resources and working with others committed to the same cause, women are able to make high-impact grants to improve the lives of women and girls in their community.

There have been hundreds of women's funds established across the country and even internationally.  Two of the closest are in Asheville at The Community Foundation of Western Carolina and in Charlotte at The Foundation for the Carolinas.  Combined, these two funds are comprised of over 450 members and over the past year made grants totaling $476,000. 

A group of diverse, local women have created The Women's Fund of Winston-Salem. They are committed to providing grants to organizations and initiatives that address the ever changing needs of all women and girls in our community and to building a community of female philanthropists by raising awareness and educating women and girls about the power of philanthropy.  All women and girls are invited to participate and thus realize their power to make a difference in our community.

Women may participate in the fund through either individual or group membership. For an individual membership, women are asked to contribute $1,200 per year for three consecutive years. For group membership, women may also form a group of up to twelve women/girls and who collectively contribute a total of $1,200 per year for three years. Each individual member and collective group member will annually receive one vote in determining the organizations/programs to receive funding from The Women's Fund.

Contributions to The Women's Fund can be made with cash, stock, with credit card and donor-advised funds. For more information about how to become involved with The Women's Fund contact Tari Hanneman.