July 18, 2024
The Women’s Giving Circle of the Community Giving Foundation held its annual meeting on July 17th at the Barn at Frosty Valley in Danville. During the event, four finalists from the Circle’s competitive grant round presented their grant requests live, while members in attendance took an active role in the grantmaking process by voting for their top choice. A total of $21,000 was awarded to the following grant recipients at the event:
- $10,000 grant recipient: Beyond Violence—Shelter Appliance Replacement
- $10,000 grant recipient: Dwell Orphan Care—Restoring Hope & Dignity Through The Hope Chest Foster Closet
- $500 grant recipient: Central Susquehanna Opportunities—Tri-County Hygiene Products Distribution
- $500 grant recipient: The Children’s Museum—Bright Futures: Renewing Spirits & Inspiring Minds
Women’s Giving Circle members and Foundation staff also shared updates on membership and engagement opportunities. New Steering Committee Officers were voted in by members to begin terms in January 2025, including Brianna Apfelbaum Kula as chair, Ellen Withrow as vice-chair, and Tiffany Bienkowski as secretary. The group also welcomed representatives from DIG Furniture Bank and Union County Giving Closet—grant finalists from 2023—to share how Circle grants have impacted the clients and communities they serve.
MEMBERSHIP
Membership for the Women’s Giving Circle follows a calendar year—any donation made in 2024 will secure membership (and grant voting power) for 2025. There are many benefits to becoming a Circle member and pooling donations to make a bigger impact in the community. Join the Women’s Giving Circle today to participate in next year’s grantmaking process. Learn more here.
STEERING COMMITTEE
The Women’s Giving Circle Steering Committee is currently accepting applications for members interested in serving on the Steering Committee next year. Members follow 3-year terms and meet regularly throughout the year to discuss outreach, grantmaking, community service, development, and membership. Applications are due August 30th. Download the application here.
The current Steering Committee includes Linda Brown (chair), Brianna Apfelbaum Kula (vice-chair), Patti Leighow (secretary), Athena Aardweg, Tiffany Bienkowski, Colleen Bowman, Stacey Napoli, Linda Neyhart, Jessica Owens Pastuszek, Pam Stetler, Amanda Stutzman, and Ellen Withrow.
LUCKY LAST ONE
The Women’s Giving Circle is excited to host its fifth Lucky Last One lottery board fundraiser on Thursday, October 3, 2024, at the Pine Barn Inn in Danville. Guests will enjoy a casual evening of fun and a chance to win $3,000 on the lottery board. Proceeds from the event support future Circle grantmaking. Tickets are on sale now. Only 100 tickets will be sold—contact a Steering Committee member or the Foundation Office to secure your spot!
The Women’s Giving Circle continues to empower, connect, and inspire women and girls by supporting initiatives and resources that better their lives. To learn more about the Circle’s mission, history, and engagement opportunities, visit csgiving.org/womens-giving-circle.