LETTER: Women launch ‘giving circle’ to boost Washington County nonprofits
August 10, 2026To the Community:
A powerful new philanthropic initiative is coming to Central Vermont with the official launch of 100 Women Who Care Washington County. Founded by Susan Colgan, Mary Edith Leichliter, Jane Macan, and myself, Suzanne Johnson, this giving circle unites women across the county to make a massive, immediate impact on local 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations through collective giving.
The newly formed chapter marks a significant expansion for regional philanthropy, proudly joining four established Vermont chapters in Chittenden, Franklin, Addison, and Lamoille counties as well as over 450 chapters nationwide.
The concept is simple yet effective. Members commit to donating $100 four times a year. For those looking for a lower financial commitment, individuals can form “Team Memberships” where two to four friends split the quarterly $100 donation and share a collective vote. At each quarterly meeting, three local 501(c)3 organizations nominated by the members are presented as potential grant recipients. Members then vote by secret ballot to give 100% of the collective funds to one organization. With a goal of 100 or more members, each quarterly cycle will inject $10,000 or more directly into a vital Washington County organization.
Membership is open to all women who want to make a tangible difference in their community. Interested guests are also welcome to attend a meeting to experience the power of collective giving firsthand before officially joining.
Membership has opened and will be ongoing for all women who care about Washington County; however, only donating members are eligible to nominate a nonprofit by Aug. 17 and vote on Sept. 8.
The first group meeting will be held from 5:30 to 7 p.m. on Sept. 8 at Mad River Valley Arts, 5031 Main St. in Waitsfield. It is open to all local women and interested guests.
To join the giving circle or find more information, please visit 100wwc-wc.org. Email the leadership team if you would like to be a guest or have any questions at 100wwcwashingtonvt@gmail.com. Thank you.
Suzanne Johnson
Waterbury