In 1999, in response to both donor interest and demonstrated community need, we established our first Women & Girls Fund to empower women and girls of all ages across 11 communities in southeastern Connecticut. The goal of this fund was to support nonprofits that help women and girls lead positive, productive lives—for themselves and their families.

In 2004, 2006, and 2013, additional Women & Girls Funds were established to expand this impact and support women throughout other parts of Eastern Connecticut. Today, with a combined endowment of $5.1 million, these funds continue to remove barriers for women and girls, strengthen economic security, enhance well-being and safety, and empower individuals to make informed, positive life decisions.

Since 1999, the Women & Girls Funds have awarded 1,374 grants totaling $3,928,328 to 177 organizations across the region.

Generous donors have contributed 9,985 gifts totaling more than $6.6 million since the funds’ inception, demonstrating a powerful and sustained commitment to advancing equity for women and girls in Eastern Connecticut.