In honor of International Women’s Day, we wanted to introduce you to a local non-profit that harnesses the power of women to make a true impact in our community – meet the WOMEN’S IMPACT FUND. Founded in 2003 by Claire Tate and Mary Lou Babb, the Women’s Impact Fund has awarded nearly $5.5 million to 70 programs in Mecklenburg County and has grown to a membership of over 500 women. Tate and Babb knew that the power of collective giving was the key to making a difference in smaller community organizations.
“We believed, that there were so many women who had the desire and eagerness to know more about the needs and wants of our community, not just the organizations they normally supported – but the many others that were making great strides but lacked a large gift to make an impact. – Mary Lou Babb
Where is the Woman’s Impact Fund making a difference?
The Women’s Impact Fund currently funds one grant in each of five focus areas: arts & culture, education, environment, health, and human services. The 2018 non-profit grantees are:
- Goodyear Arts,
- MeckEd Career Pathways,
- Conservation Trust for North Carolina,
- Hope Haven, Inc.,
- The Center For Community Transitions and
- Tutor Charlotte.
In addition to making an economic impact in our community, the Women’s Impact Fund also provides members with programming on social issues and how to get involved to create change. The Social Hour for Social Issues event brought together non-profit leaders to address community issues and explore solutions on improving opportunities for all.
How does it work?
- Each Womens Impact Fund member commits to $1,300 per year in membership dues. As an initial commitment, new members sign a five-year commitment. (NOTE: your company’s match can add with your own contribution to equal your total commitment)
- Of the $1,300 annual dues, $1,000 is allocated to their annual grant pool and $300 goes to support educational and networking programs along with operations.
- Each year the grants pool is regenerated by membership dues.
- Monthly or annual payment options are available for membership dues.
- There is no minimum requirement for volunteer time to fulfill.
If you do love a little networking and mingling, Women’s Impact Fund offers seasonal socials, new member get togethers and social events through out the year. The best part is, they are all optional; although it’s an excellent way to expand your social network.
If you would like to meet a few members in person, mark your calendar for April 8th and head to Corkbuzz for a casual meet up where interested women can find out more about the Women’s Impact Fund and their mission. It’s a great opportunity to learn more about their Mission, Vision and Values directly from their members.
Ready to give back in a big way? Click here for membership details
2525 Distribution Street
Charlotte, North Carolina 28203
(704) 707-4292
www.womensimpactfund.org
Follow WIF on Facebook to stay up to date on events.
