The Baltimore Women’s Giving Circle (BWGC) is celebrating its 25th anniversary, marking a significant milestone in collective philanthropy that has empowered women and families throughout Baltimore. Since its inception in 2001, the Circle has awarded nearly $9 million in grants to support local nonprofits, enhancing opportunities for over 220 organizations dedicated to community welfare.
From Vision to Impact
Beginning with just 52 women who shared a vision for a more equitable Baltimore, the BWGC has expanded to include more than 400 members. These members unite their resources to address pressing community needs, including education, job readiness, health, housing stability, and family support. The Circle operates under the auspices of the Baltimore Community Foundation, awarding annual grants of up to $25,000 to selected nonprofits.
“For 25 years, the Baltimore Women’s Giving Circle has shown that when women come together, we can make a measurable difference,” said Barbara Epke, co-chair of the Circle. “Every grant represents the power of shared purpose—hundreds of women pooling their resources, ideas, and voices to strengthen Baltimore’s future.”
Since its first round of grants in 2002, the Circle has distributed a total of 481 grants. These funds have provided vital support to organizations focusing on critical community needs. Beyond financial contributions, members engage in community learning and develop ongoing partnerships with grantees, fostering relationships that last well beyond the grant cycle.
Looking Ahead: A Call to Action
This anniversary is not only a celebration of past achievements but also a call to action for future involvement. “Our work is far from finished,” noted Renee Gordon, co-chair of the BWGC. “We hope this anniversary inspires more women to join us, because each new member expands our reach and strengthens the legacy we’re building together.”
The BWGC remains committed to welcoming new members, offering tiered annual contributions of $2,500, $1,200, or $600. This structure ensures accessibility for women at various stages of life and with differing financial capacities. The Circle exemplifies the power of collective philanthropy, illustrating how women can create lasting change through collaboration and shared goals.
As it embarks on its next chapter, the BWGC is steadfast in its vision for a more just, equitable, and inclusive Baltimore, where all women and their families can thrive. For more information about the Baltimore Women’s Giving Circle or to join, visit www.thebwgc.org.
About the Organizations
The Baltimore Women’s Giving Circle is a fund of the Baltimore Community Foundation, designed to unite women in pooling their philanthropic resources to award grants that promote opportunities for women and families in Baltimore City and Baltimore County. Since its establishment, the Circle has distributed nearly $9 million to local nonprofits, reflecting its commitment to community upliftment.
The Baltimore Community Foundation has been a cornerstone of philanthropy for over 50 years, connecting people passionate about their community with opportunities to make a meaningful impact. By amplifying donors’ efforts through strategic grants and advocacy, BCF continues to strengthen neighborhoods and schools. For more details, visit www.bcf.org.
