Invest in Women. Strengthen the Community.
Empowering Women, Creating Lasting Change
About the Women's Fund
Created by women, for women, the Women’s Fund of the Hamilton Community Foundation was founded in 1997 by Karen Whalen and Joan Witt to build a dedicated funding source for organizations serving women and girls in our community. Over the years, the fund has grown significantly—raising more than $450,000 and awarding over $300,000 in grants to support programs that empower women and girls throughout Butler County.
The Women's Fund has also expanded beyond grantmaking to foster leadership and philanthropy among women. In addition to its grant programs, the fund now offers the Women Inspiring Philanthropy initiative (WIPi), which connects women with key community issues and organizations making a difference.
Today, the Women’s Fund continues to thrive under the leadership of its dedicated committee, chaired by Niki Motley, with members Liz Hayden, Nancy O'Neill, Joan Witt, and Carrie Zancan.
Vision Statement
The Women’s Fund of the Hamilton Community Foundation is a leader in uniting efforts to bring about social change that improves and transforms the lives of women and girls in our community.
Mission Statement
The Women’s Fund promotes opportunities for philanthropy, collaboration, education, and advocacy, ensuring social and economic self-sufficiency for all women and girls in Butler County.
Women's Fund Grantees
Since its inception, the Women’s Fund has invested over $300,000 in organizations working to uplift and support women and girls in Butler County.
Past Grant Recipients
- Big Brothers Big Sisters of Butler County
- Boys & Girls Club of Hamilton
- Primary Health Solutions, Inc.
- Butler County Juvenile Court
- Community Counseling & Crisis Center
- Girls on the Run Greater Cincinnati
- Hamilton High School
- Hamilton Living Water Ministry, Inc.
- Hamilton Municipal Court
- Miami University Hamilton
- Planned Parenthood of SW OH & N KY
- SELF (Supports to Encourage Low-Income Families)
- Talbert House
- The Sanctuary Covenant Christian Fellowship
- Women Helping Women
Join Us in Making a Difference
By supporting the Women’s Fund, you help create lasting change in the lives of women and girls in our community.