#United States #Nonprofits #Community Foundation #Clemson #Women4Women

Empowering Change: Women4Women Announces Grant Winners

On September 24, 2026, Women4Women (W4W), a giving circle from the Community Foundation of Greater Clemson, declared the recipients of its annual grants, awarding a total of $34,000 to four local nonprofits dedicated to supporting women, children, and families in Upstate South Carolina. This initiative highlights the substantial impact that collaborative philanthropy can have on local communities.

The primary grant, known as the Susan Marie Foster Sharp Memorial Grant, was awarded to The Hiding Place, which received a significant funding boost of $25,000. This organization focuses on providing safe environments where survivors of domestic violence can recuperate and rebuild their lives. The Co-Executive Director, Breann Griffin, expressed immense gratitude, stating, “This grant will help us establish The Monarch Center, a trauma-informed space where survivors can participate in educational programs and activities that foster connection and community.” Since its founding in 2023, The Hiding Place has made a remarkable difference, assisting over 1,500 women and 750 children.

In addition to The Hiding Place, three more organizations were awarded $3,000 each:

• - MARYS House: This organization advocates for the safety and independence of domestic violence survivors by providing faith-based family services.
• - Pickens County First Steps: Focused on ensuring children are ready for school, this program supports families and caregivers through community engagement.
• - The Salvation Army of Oconee County: This organization directs emergency funds toward utilities and rent assistance, directly aiding community members in need.

The concept of giving circles like Women4Women is gaining traction in philanthropy, offering a platform for individuals with varying financial abilities to collectively enhance their community’s well-being. Cheryl J. Dye, Ph.D., Chair of W4W, stated, “The W4W giving circle is just that—a close-knit community of women investing in other women, and in the process, enriching all of our lives.” This camaraderie allows small individual contributions to amass into significant support for these vital organizations, demonstrating a powerful collective impact.

W4W members contribute a minimum of $300 annually, with student members able to join for $100 or more, allowing for a diverse membership and pooling of resources. The initiative carries on the legacy of the late Susan Sharp, who was the former Executive Director of The Community Foundation of Greater Clemson and a driving force behind the establishment of Women4Women.

This year’s grants are a testament to the positive change that can occur when a community bands together to support those who need it most. By empowering organizations that provide essential services, Women4Women is not just funding projects but fostering resilience within the community, ensuring a brighter future for all involved. As these nonprofits continue their critical work, the contributions from W4W will undoubtedly leave an indelible mark on the lives of many families and individuals in the region.

In a world where the challenges facing women and children can seem insurmountable, initiatives like the Women4Women giving circle remind us of the power of collective action and the importance of community support. Their work is an inspiring call to action, encouraging others to recognize and address the needs of those around them, ultimately leading to a more equitable and compassionate society.