March is Women’s History Month — a meaningful time to highlight the role of women in philanthropy right here in Boulder County. From young women in our 15 Forever program raising funds and making grants to support their peers, to members of the BIPOC Women’s Fund giving circle harnessing the power of collective action, to participants in the Women’s Philanthropy Group learning about issues facing women and children in Boulder County, to women across our community using their time, treasure, and talent to make a difference — the community foundation is honored to partner with them in building a community where everyone can thrive.
Women’s growing control over wealth is fueling transformative potential to reshape philanthropy. According to research-based analysis published in the Stanford Social Innovation Review, over the next decade, trillions of dollars will transfer to women through inheritance, earnings, and outliving male partners in heterosexual couples.
What’s more, research from Indiana University’s Lilly Family School of Philanthropy, including Women Give 2024: 20 Years of Gender & Giving Trends, supports what many are seeing firsthand: women are increasingly leading charitable decisions within their families. Sometimes this shift happens gradually—a daughter becomes more involved in conversations about family giving, or a spouse who once deferred decisions begins shaping philanthropic priorities more directly. In other cases, the transition is sudden and deeply personal, such as after the death of a spouse or parent, when a woman assumes sole responsibility for stewarding both financial assets and charitable intent.
Many are familiar with high-profile examples such as MacKenzie Scott and Melinda Gates. But the trend is much more widespread than just a few big names. Indeed, women often give more generously, more broadly, and more collaboratively than men. Notably, the ways women approach philanthropy differ significantly from men’s, especially with respect to motivations such as empathy, personal priorities, and firsthand involvement.
As women step more fully into philanthropic leadership, thoughtful planning can help ensure that their giving remains impactful and sustainable. Whether it is through a donor-advised fund, a field of interest fund, or dedicating your time to a particular program or organization, women’s philanthropy continues to shape our communities in profound ways.
We are grateful to all the women across Boulder County dedicated to supporting our community. Your commitment to philanthropy and your understanding that it has the power to reflect both an enduring legacy and an evolving purpose inspire us. Thank you!
