Why the Women’s Foundation of Collier County?

Meeting the Needs of Women and Girls

Women’s funds appear in many settings—public charities, private foundations, and funds within community foundations like ours. Surveys revealed that funding for women and girls by the broader foundation community has grown at a faster rate than foundation giving on the whole.  But as a share of overall foundation giving, funding for women and girls has remained below 7.5 percent for more than 15 years. Our interpretation: funders understand the potential for change by investing in women, but the awareness that translates into giving must be intensified.

What makes these funds unique? Research has shown women’s funds have developed a unique approach to grant-making that sets them apart from the mainstream in terms of impact and effectiveness.

• Focus on ‘systemic’ solutions – changes to the policies and systems that shape women’s opportunities in society
• Invest in women who are poor and pushed to the margins – over 80% of women’s fund grants flow to women and girls with low-income or no income
• Consist of start-up and venture investors, kick-starting many new community organizations and projects
• Don’t just give money – they build the leadership, skills, and influence of their grantee partners
• Believe everyone can be a philanthropist, engaging diverse audiences in giving, leadership, and decision-making
• Share a common focus on critical issues including combating poverty and violence, and improving access to healthcare and education

Women’s Foundation of Collier County – Mission and Goals

Mission: To be a catalyst for change in the lives of women and girls in Collier County through grantmaking, advocacy, and education.

                         Board of Directors 2022-2023