WOMEN'S FUND YEAR IN REVIEW
"Working for women and girls as we work from home. The Women’s Fund is working remotely to continue to support women and girls."

When I added this to my email signature back in March, little did I know it would still be there in December.

What a year.

It's not what we had pictured for our 25th anniversary, but because of you, we have been able to accomplish so much. From sneaking in Philanthropy Matters right before the shutdown, meeting with the Girls' Grantmaking group over Zoom, granting to multiple projects and programs, holding the Women’s Fund Luncheon virtually on YouTube and Facebook, what a year it has been!

Enjoy this look back at all of the amazing things you made possible this year. There is still much more to be done as so many women have been devastated by the pandemic. We look forward to working with all of you to support women and girls in the areas you are most passionate about.

Thank you for your generosity and thoughtfulness this year. Your support directly impacts the lives of women and girls right here in the Fox Valley. We know that nothing we do would be possible without the incredible support of people like you. Thank you.

From all of us at the Women’s Fund, have a joyous holiday season.

Julie
P.S. If you haven't made a year-end gift, it's not too late to support programs like these. Donate today and help transform the lives of women and girls in the Fox Valley.
Women's Fund 25th Anniversary Video
The Women's Fund is celebrating 25 years of Investing in women and girls in northeast Wisconsin.

Take a look at this video highlighting the many accomplishments and reflections from a founding donor.
Celebrating 100 Years of Women's
Right to Vote
The Women's Fund was proud to be a part of the Fox Valley 19th Amendment Centennial Coalition. Many events were held in person and virtually to honor and celebrate the passage of this historic milestone.

Girls' Grantmaking Project
High school girls spent a powerful day meeting (in person) in March to discuss issues important to them and their peers. They identified and agreed to support programs that provide training, education and resources to better prepare high school students, school personnel and others to help students experiencing mental health challenges.

When they met virtually in May, they awarded $4,000 to N.E.W Mental Health Connection and $6,000 to Prevent Suicide Fox Valley to address those important issues.

Philanthropy Matters
Although we didn't realize it at the time, this event would be the last time we gathered together in 2020. International Women's Day was celebrated and guests learned strategies for joyful and effective giving. One of the biggest takeaways being, "Give while you live," so you can see the benefits of your actions.
Scholarships and Tuition Assistance
The Women's Fund helped four women with their educational aspirations in 2020. The Helen Spasoff Kratzer and Ashley Marie Abraham Scholarships helped two graduating seniors with college scholarships. Tuition assistance was also provided for one student at UW Oshkosh - Fox Cities and one at FVTC through the Athena Award Winners Giving Circle Fund.
Women's Fund Exceeds $1.8 Million in Total Grantmaking
The Women's Fund surpassed $1.8 million in total grantmaking in 2020 and has funded 224 programs within 83 different organizations since 1997! Thank you for working together to create a stronger, healthier and more equitable community for women and girls in the Fox Valley. 
Mother's Day Concert
The Women's Fund partnered with Hillary Reynolds for "This is for the Mamas," a Facebook Live concert, just in time for Mother's Day. We are grateful to Hillary and her husband, Ted Toussaint, for sharing their talents with us and lifting the spirits for all who joined.

Young Women's Initiative
The Starting Point 2.0 and EmpowHER classes have continued to meet throughout the pandemic both virtually and in person.

The women have faced additional challenges such as job losses, struggles with child care and technology issues/expenses.

Even so, the women have persisted and are continuing to work toward their goals for a brighter future.

The classes are recruiting now. The video includes testimonials from participants about how the program has helped them and information about how to get started.

20th Annual Women's Fund Luncheon
As the Women's Fund shifted from holding a luncheon in a ballroom filled with 1,000 people to streaming it in virtual space, we are thankful for you...our donors, sponsors and guests. Because of your generosity, over $160,000 was raised to support grantmaking, education, and advocacy efforts for local women and girls.
Issue Spotlight Panel Discussion
Community leaders discussed what the effects of the pandemic have been for them professionally and personally.

Panelists included Becky Bartoszek, Judy Baseman, Monica Hilt and Tammy Geenen. Lisa Malak, co-host Local 5 Live, moderated the discussion.
Invest In Her

Are you the missing piece needed to turn a puzzlement into a promise - of hope, security and a better future for women and girls? Give today and your contribution will help strengthen families and sustain the mission of the Women's Fund - to promote the advancement of women and girls in our community.

Thank you for Investing in Her!