In Franklin County, a simple idea is creating a powerful ripple effect: bring people together, pool resources, and make meaningful, immediate impacts on local nonprofits. That’s exactly what 100+ Women Who Care, Franklin County has been doing since its founding in 2024.
With a growing membership of around 175 women, this giving circle has already distributed more than $61,000 to local organizations—many of which operate on shoestring budgets. Their goal? To increase membership enough to consistently award $10,000 grants that can truly transform small nonprofits and community initiatives.
A Simple Model with Big Impact
The concept behind 100+ Women Who Care is refreshingly straightforward. Members commit to donating $50 per quarter. At each quarterly meeting, three local nonprofits are randomly selected—based on nominations submitted by members—to present their work.
Each nonprofit gets:
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5 minutes for a member to introduce their mission
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5 minutes for a representative to answer questions
After hearing the presentations, members vote. The nonprofit with the most votes receives the pooled donations—often totaling $7,000 or more per meeting.
But even those not selected don’t walk away empty-handed. As Outreach Coordinator Kristine Jelstrup explains, “Everyone wins.” Non-selected organizations often receive individual donations and, just as importantly, gain visibility within the community.
Supporting the Underdogs
Because nominations come directly from members, the nonprofits featured are diverse—ranging from well-known organizations to grassroots groups run entirely by volunteers.
Many of the most impactful recipients are smaller organizations that might otherwise struggle to secure funding. For example, a recent recipient, the Foundation for Community Justice, operates on a modest annual budget but provides critical support to immigrants navigating legal and safety challenges. For groups like this, even a few thousand dollars can be transformative.
Past recipients have included organizations such as Stone Soup Café, The Recover Project, and Art Garden—demonstrating the wide range of causes supported, from food insecurity to recovery programs and creative community spaces.
Community Beyond the Check
While the financial impact is significant, the social aspect of the group is equally meaningful. Each meeting begins with a half-hour social gathering, giving members a chance to connect, catch up, and build community.
Even during harsh winter weather, turnout remains strong—proof that members value not just the giving, but the sense of belonging.
“It’s more than just donating $50,” Jelstrup shares. “It’s about coming together, seeing familiar faces, and being part of something positive.”
Making Giving Easier
To streamline the donation process, many members use an online platform called Grapevine, which automates quarterly contributions. This reduces administrative work for both volunteers and recipient nonprofits—ensuring that more energy goes toward impact rather than logistics.
Still, the heart of the organization remains the same: a group of committed individuals showing up, contributing what they can, and trusting the collective power of giving.
How to Get Involved
Joining is simple. Membership requires a commitment to donate $50 at each quarterly meeting—whether attending in person or contributing remotely. Members are asked to honor this commitment each quarter, even if they’re unable to attend, helping ensure consistency and impact for the selected nonprofits. Donations go directly to registered 501(c)(3) organizations and are tax-deductible.
Members can also:
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Nominate nonprofits for consideration
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Present on behalf of organizations
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Participate in the voting process
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Help spread the word
For those hesitant to present, support is available—other members are happy to step in and share a nonprofit’s story.
This model is especially appealing for those who want to give back locally but may not have the time to volunteer regularly or feel overwhelmed choosing where to donate. By pooling resources, members can make a meaningful impact with a simple, structured approach.
Upcoming Meeting: May 4
The next meeting of 100+ Women Who Care, Franklin County will take place on Monday, May 4, at the Shelburne Buckland Community Center.
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5:30 – 6:00 PM: Social time
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6:00 – 7:00 PM: Presentations and voting
New members are always welcome, and each meeting typically brings in 10–15 newcomers eager to make a difference.
Meetings are held quarterly—in February, May, August, and November—offering a consistent and manageable way to stay engaged in local giving.
Whether someone is new to the area or simply looking for a meaningful way to give back, this is an accessible and impactful entry point into local philanthropy.
A Model Worth Spreading
While this chapter serves all of Franklin County, organizers are enthusiastic about the idea of other communities starting their own groups. With a proven model and a willingness to mentor, 100+ Women Who Care is helping to inspire similar efforts in neighboring towns.
At its core, the mission is clear: keep it simple, keep it local, and make a real difference.
As Jelstrup puts it, “When you look at hundreds of nonprofits, it can feel overwhelming. But when you come together and give one meaningful gift—it feels powerful. It feels like you’re truly helping.”
For those looking to turn small contributions into big change, 100+ Women Who Care, Franklin County offers a compelling invitation: show up, give together, and be part of something bigger.
For more information, go to 100pluswwc-franklinctyma.com or contact Kristine Jelstrup, Outreach Coordinator, at outreach.100pluswwc@gmail.com.
All photo credit: 100+ Women Who Care
Franklin County and the Pioneer Valley in Western Massachusetts are known for their vibrant small towns, local farms, artists, and independent businesses. As a longtime local real estate expert, Wanda Mooney shares insights about the communities, lifestyle, and real estate opportunities that make this region such a special place to live.
Discover more local non-profits in Wanda's blog series, Notice Non-Profits.
For more information about community happenings and real estate news visit Wanda's Blog at www.wandamooney.com/blog, or feel free to contact Wanda for professional real estate assistance.
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