March is a time to celebrate the leadership, generosity, and impact of women. In honor of Women’s History Month, the Community Foundation of West Tennessee hosted the 3^rd Annual 100 Women Who Care Awards Luncheon. This event brings women together with a shared purpose: to give back, connect with one another, and learn more about the nonprofit organizations working to strengthen communities across West Tennessee.

Through this initiative, women pool their charitable gifts to create meaningful grant opportunities for local organizations. The result is a powerful example of collective giving in action.

“This program creates an inviting and meaningful way for women to step into philanthropy together.” -Melissa Spurgeon, CEO, Community Foundation of West Tennessee

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From Applications to Finalists

In January, 31 nonprofit organizations and funds of the Foundation submitted funding proposals for consideration. A committee of 100 Women Who Care members reviewed and scored the applications, selecting three finalists in both the small and large nonprofit categories.

Small Nonprofit Finalists

• Carroll County Rescue Squad
• Rotary Heart and Sole Fund
• YoungLives

Large Nonprofit Finalists

• Aspell Recovery
• Hannah's Hope
• United Way of West Tennessee

At the luncheon, representatives from each finalist organization shared their mission and funding request with attendees. After hearing the presentations, members voted to determine one grant recipient in each category. The grants are funded entirely through member contributions, demonstrating how collective generosity can create meaningful change in our region.

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Celebrating the 2026 Grant Winners

This year, $15,000 in grants was awarded to two organizations working to serve families and strengthen community safety.

The Small Nonprofit Grant, totaling $5,000, was awarded to Carroll County Rescue Squad. The funding will support the installation of a Lifejacket Loan Station at Lake Halford, helping reduce preventable drownings, particularly among children and families who may not have access to life-saving equipment.

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The Large Nonprofit Grant, totaling $10,000, was awarded to Hannah’s Hope. Their project will provide parenting and infant safety supplies for families, including diaper bags stocked with essential baby items, safe sleepkits, car seats, and feeding supplies.

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“When women unite around causes they care about, they strengthen our region and turn generosity into real impact.” -Melissa Spurgeon

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The Power of Collective Giving

100 Women Who Care: West Tennessee is more than a grant program. It is a welcoming community where women can learn about local needs, build relationships, and take part in accessible philanthropy. Each luncheon highlights organizations doing important work across West Tennessee and empowers members to play a direct role in supporting that work. Following the yearly luncheon, the Foundation coordinates volunteer opportunities and networking events to keep members engaged.

Especially during Women’s History Month, the program serves as a reminder that when women come together with a shared purpose, their generosity and leadership can create lasting impact.

“100 Women Who Care continues to inspire me because it shows the heart of our community.” -Melissa Spurgeon

Through initiatives like this, the Community Foundation of West Tennessee continues its mission of strengthening the health and well-beingof the region by serving as a catalyst for positive change.

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Join 100 Women Who Care

Women who want to make a difference in their community while connecting with others who share a passion for giving back are encouraged to join. Learn more at 100WomenWestTN.org.