Supporters raised more than $510,000 for the Fairfield County Community Foundations Fund for Women and Girls at its 12th annual luncheon held April 7 at the Hyatt Regency Greenwich.
CNN anchor and author Soledad OBrien, the keynote speaker, inspired more than 700 supporters to take action. There are opportunities every single day to make a difference, she said.
The theme of this years luncheon, Seeds of Opportunity, focused on the potential within every girl and woman in Fairfield County and the nurturing needed to bring it to fruition.
"Some seeds fall into fertile soil and receive ample sunlight and water, and easily thrive in their environment," luncheon co-chair Janet Lebovitz told guests. "Others, however, fall into cracks. They need extra care so they can put down vigorous roots, grow strong and resilient, and reach their full potential. You and the Fund for Women and Girls continue to help women and girls throughout Fairfield County stand tall, grow strong and flourish."
Established in 1998, the fund has awarded $1.9 million in grants to nonprofits throughout Fairfield County that help girls and women overcome obstacles and fulfill their potential. Grants are based on research that identifies the most-pressing needs of women and girls in local communities. Programs supported help women move into safe and affordable housing; teach girls to find their voices, make healthy choices and develop the skills and confidence to become leaders; and support low- and mid-wage women with dependents by helping them advance their education, enter higher paying careers and achieve economic security.
The Fairfield County Community Foundation promotes the growth of community and regional philanthropy to improve the quality of life throughout Fairfield County. Individuals, families, corporations and organizations can establish their own charitable funds or contribute to existing funds focused on specific areas of need or communities in Fairfield County. The foundation also provides philanthropic advisory services, and develops and leads initiatives to tackle critical community issues. The foundation has awarded more than $123 million in grants to nonprofits in Fairfield County and beyond. For more information, visit www.fccfoundation.org.
Have you seen the benefits of the Fairfield County Community Foundation? How has it helped you or your community? Leave a comment below.
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