(Photo provided) The Women United for Good Giving Circle recently awarded $14,000 in grants to three local nonprofits.

The historic Barker Estate was filled with conversation, connection, and purpose as members of the Women’s Giving Circle gathered for its Fall 2025 meeting.

Members came together to award $14,000 in grants to three nonprofits serving women and children across Washington County.

Since its founding in 2016, the Women’s Giving Circle has grown into a network of more than 60 members who have collectively invested over $100,000 back into the community. What began nearly a decade ago as a small group of women with a vision has blossomed into a powerful movement of generosity and impact.

The 2025 fall grant recipients were:

– The Betsey Mills Club — $5,000 – Funding will support security upgrades, including a key card access system, ensuring members, residents, and community participants can enjoy a safer environment while utilizing the facility.

– Zonta Club of the Mid-Ohio Valley — $5,000 – This women-led organization provides essential personal care items such as feminine hygiene products, bras, and undergarments to women in need. Zonta also partners with local schools to keep hygiene closets stocked for students, helping ensure dignity and opportunity for all.

– BrAva — $4,000 – Dedicated to supporting families navigating pediatric cancer, BrAva will use the grant to relaunch its Family Fun Night. Families will gather aboard the Valley Gem Sternwheeler for a meal and riverboat ride, fostering joy, connection, and community among those facing difficult journeys, organizers said.

“Nearly a decade ago, the Women’s Giving Circle began because of the passion of a donor who wanted to make a difference. As a philanthropic advisor, we were honored to help bring that vision to life,” said Heather Allender, President & CEO of the Marietta Community Foundation. “Every meeting, my admiration grows more and more for these women. What they do is truly remarkable, and for myself and the Foundation, I am grateful to be able to walk alongside this incredible journey.”

For more information about the Women’s Giving Circle or to learn how to become a member, visit www.mcfohio.org/womens-giving-circle.

Marietta Community Foundation is committed to strengthening Washington County, believing that a united community holds unlimited potential. With over $34 million in grants and scholarships and more than $60 million in assets across nearly 400 funds, the Foundation empowers individuals, families, businesses, and organizations across Washington County to drive transformative, lasting impact. Learn more at www.mcfohio.org.