Who We Are

The Women’s Foundation of Collier County (WFCC) stands as a beacon of empowerment and change for women in Collier County, Florida. As a dedicated women’s fund, the WFCC operates in diverse forms including public charities, private foundations, and community funds, each tailored to meet the unique needs of women and girls in the community.

Despite a surge in foundation giving aimed at uplifting women and girls, a mere 7.5% has been allocated to this cause for over a decade and a half. This stark figure underscores the urgent need to amplify both awareness and contributions. The WFCC is at the forefront of this mission, tirelessly working to enhance visibility and drive more generous giving toward the betterment of women’s lives in Collier County.

Our Unique Approach to Grant-Making

The foundation focuses on addressing the needs of at-risk young girls and senior women through various programs and initiatives.

  • Systemic Solutions: We focus on systemic solutions, changing policies and systems that shape women’s opportunities.
  • Investing in Marginalized Women: Over 80% of our grants go to women and girls with low or no income.
  • Venture Philanthropy: We also engage in venture philanthropy, initiating new community organizations and projects.
  • Beyond Financial Aid: We don’t just provide funding; we build the leadership, skills, and influence of our grantee partners.

By focusing on these core areas, we aim to create a lasting impact that goes beyond mere numbers. We invite you to join us in this transformative journey to uplift the lives of women and girls in Collier County.

Our Mission
and Vision

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

Three Pillars of Women Lifting Women

Our work is guided by three core pillars of our Women Lifting Women Campaign that encapsulate our mission, vision, and the essence of our initiatives. These pillars serve as the foundation upon which we build our initiatives, programs, and community outreach.

Senior Women

Goal: Meet current critical needs of senior women.

Actions
  • Provide funding for homeless programs that identify and assist housing senior women in need
  • Address isolation issues and provide support for the caregiver

Young Women & Girls

Goal: Empower young women and girls to meet their full potential.

Actions
  • Offer advanced scholarships
  • Provide support for mentorships and career development programs

Endowment

Goal: Raise funds to support the needs of women and girls in our community in perpetuity.

Actions
  • Raise $1,089,500 for the three pillars in year one and continue to set new goals for annual support
  • Increase the WFCC Endowment Fund to $5,000,000

Our three pillars are not just goals; they are commitments.

By focusing on these core areas, we aim to create a lasting impact that goes beyond mere numbers. 

To Learn More, Please Contact

Julie Van Tongeren

Vice President of Development
239-307-4521
[email protected]

Eileen Connolly-Keesler

President/CEO
239-307-4518
[email protected]

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