Collaboratory recently hosted more than 100 women at a fall luncheon for its Women’s Legacy Fund contributors and Prima Donors.
Established in 2008, the Women’s Legacy Fund raises the philanthropic power of women who support Southwest Florida’s most vulnerable populations in their journeys to lives of fulfillment and success. Their goals are to amplify the power women possess to strengthen their communities through philanthropic giving; educates women and the community on current issues and philanthropic strategies; and inspires women to be leaders in philanthropy.
“We were so excited to be back in person with our WLF contributors at Collaboratory,” said Dr. Dawn Belamarich, president and CEO of Collaboratory. “It is especially noteworthy because we raised our endowed fund to $1 million which will generate $40,000 annually to support projects that assist Southwest Florida’s most vulnerable populations, focusing on addressing the root causes of issues. As our membership and donations grow, we’ll be able to grant even more to our community.”
Wendy Steele, founder of Impact100, provided the keynote speech.
During the event, WLF contributors voted on their next field of interest which resulted in health and wellness getting the most votes.
WLF’s Philanthropy Impact Award was also presented to Gail McClure and Gail Markham celebrating each woman as an extraordinary female philanthropist who exemplifies the true spirit of giving. This honor is bestowed upon women who are deeply committed to empowering and inspiring others, both through their financial contributions and dedication to mentorship.
Contributors to the WLF, professional women who are committed to philanthropic giving, include annual members, donors and Prima donors. Membership contributions begin at $250.
WLF’s Spring Luncheon is scheduled for Thursday, March 27th at Collaboratory.
For more information on membership and to join this collective, inspiring group of women, visit www.collaboratory.org/wlf, contact Gina Dengler at gdengler@collaboratory.org or call (239)333-4171.
ABOUT COLLABORATORY
Collaboratory is a regional community foundation with an evolved mission committed to coordinating the solving of Southwest Florida’s major social problems by 2040. Not alone, but with everyone—the entire community working together across all five counties: Lee, Hendry, Glades, Charlotte and Collier.
Collaboratory provides community leadership, raises and coordinates funding, and disburses funds to organizations that are helping solve the problems our donors and the community have identified as priorities. Collaboratory also provides capacity building with training and resources for regional partners. Given the complexities of the social challenges in our region, Collaboratory ensures we are all working together and that every generous donor achieves the biggest impact with their funds. By using and sharing data to track progress, we ensure that donor dollars are best invested to move the needle on improving social issues.
Connection and collaboration are at the heart of our mission. Since 1976, we have made over $120 million in grants to individuals and organizations across the region to enhance the quality of life for current and future generations. It is upon that legacy of a commitment to community we will collectively achieve our 2040 goal. To learn more and get involved, call 239-274-5900 or visit www.collaboratory.org.
