The Women’s Giving Fund (WGF) is an inclusive opportunity for female donors to learn about women’s economic security issues, focus their giving on issues impacting women and children, and experience the power of collaborative philanthropy. Established in 2017 by a diverse group of professional women, the Fund’s goal was to create an inclusive opportunity for female donors to learn about women’s economic security issues, focus their giving on issues impacting women and children, and experience the power of collaborative philanthropy.

In 2022, the WGF was named a Signature Fund to celebrate IECF’s 80th Anniversary. Based on funds raised each year, grants are awarded at least annually. A contribution of $200 or more to the WGF will enable you to participate in our annual grantmaking process as we identify and support the organizations that provide essential support services for women.

To support the Women’s Giving Fund and help uplift women and their families in the IE, make a gift today.

How does the Women’s Giving Fund make an impact?

• By understanding the state of the community we serve
• By using research to identify and fund the most vital areas of need

In 2024, the Women’s Giving Fund commissioned a study to gain a deeper understanding of the status of women in the Inland Empire. Using the Vital Conditions Framework, the study examines the key factors that enable people and communities to thrive, such as access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities. The report was released at our annual Women’s Giving Fund Spring Fling, March 23, 2025. At an event on June 3, She Counts: A Data-Driven Conversation about IE Women’s Well-Being, provided an overview of the survey’s full results and explored how Inland Empire women’s well-being compares nationally and globally, how experiences differ across counties, and what it truly means to be thriving, struggling, or suffering in our region.

The idea is simple: when people have what they need to live healthy, stable lives, communities grow stronger. But when these vital conditions are broken or unavailable, people struggle, and the need for urgent services grows. Over time, this cycle drains resources and makes it even harder to create lasting change.

This study will help us move beyond quick fixes and instead focus on long-term solutions that build a fairer and more thriving Inland Empire. It also reminds us that we all have a role to play in shaping a future where women—and everyone—can reach their full potential.

Impact Highlights

Since 2018, the Women’s Giving Fund has distributed over $249,000 to nonprofits benefitting women and families in the Inland Empire. Grants have allowed families to transition into stable housing, increased women’s employability skills, helped them remain clean and sober, and offered continuing education. Our grantmaking has included:

• Health and Wellness: In 2024, WGF granted $15,000 to Michelle’s Place Cancer Resource Center to enhance mental health services for women battling cancer.
• Transitional Support: Women of Worship & Warfare International received $15,000 to bolster their women’s transitional services, aiding those moving towards stable, independent living.
• Economic Empowerment: In 2023, the WGF distributed $43,400 to organizations such as The CARE Project, Inc., Foothill Family Shelter, Riverside Area Rape Crisis Center, and Soroptimist International (Montclair/Inland Valley), supporting initiatives from breast cancer survivor services to educational awards for women pursuing new career opportunities.

Through these targeted grants, the Women’s Giving Fund addresses critical areas of need, including health, housing, and economic empowerment. Through the power of collective philanthropy, this work creates a more equitable and supportive environment for women across the Inland Empire.

2025 WGF Grantees:

• 2025 – Corona-Norco United Way – $15,000
• 2025 – Inspire Life Skills  – $15,000
• 2025 – Soroptimist International of Corona – $10,000
• 2025 – UC Riverside’s Center for Community Solutions – $15,000