Women Helping Women Fund, a Spokane-based collective-giving nonprofit, finds solutions, supports scholars, and produces data and research through its annual State of Women and Children report.

Through a collective-giving model, also known as a giving circle, the organization pools together donations and members vote on which philanthropic organization or program receives grant funding based on specific areas of support. Impact areas include childhood and adult education; financial stability; diversity, equity, and inclusion; domestic violence and family resources; food and nutrition; housing assistance; and mental health services.

Annual revenue has increased 40% in the last two years, to about $1.2 million in 2024, and donations are expected to grow 25% in fiscal year 2025. Since forming in 1992, Women Helping Women Fund has awarded over $7 million to nonprofits in Spokane County. The nonprofit has three full-time employees and 21 members on its working board of directors.

Has the organization overcome any obstacles in the past year? This past year, Women Helping Women Fund focused on converting one-time donors into engaged, strategic givers through the Giving Circle. Balancing this transition while continuing to host meaningful events such as Mom Prom, Women Helping Women Week, and Give Like a Woman was challenging but essential for maintaining donor enthusiasm.

How has the organization adapted or innovated in the past year? In addition to expanding our philanthropic model, we remodeled our space and began subleasing office and warehouse space to small nonprofits in need, further supporting the local nonprofit ecosystem.

What future plans does the organization have for innovation? We have plans for a youth participatory grantmaking program in the future. This model engages young people as decision makers in the philanthropic process. Youth participants collaborate to evaluate community needs and allocate funding to impactful projects. By placing decision-making in their hands, the program fosters leadership skills, civic engagement, and a deeper understanding of social issues.

Are there any other reasons you believe your organization deserves to be considered for this honor? Women Helping Women Fund engages donors as strategic partners in creating a more inclusive and sustainable philanthropic model. The organization's commitment ensures that resources are directed to where they are needed most, driving meaningful and lasting change.