Sometimes the Help Is Closer Than We Think

By Alicia Johnson, GFWC – Women’s Club of South County Member

In every community, there are people quietly working to build better futures, not because they have unlimited resources, but because they believe that a little support at the right moment can make an enormous difference.

As members of the GFWC Women’s Club of South County, we see that every day. We have the opportunity to invest directly in women pursuing education and in local nonprofits working to address some of the most pressing needs facing our neighbors.

But there is an important part of that work we cannot do alone: we need people to know these opportunities exist.

Two of our programs have upcoming deadlines, and we want to make sure they reach the people and organizations who could benefit.

GFWC Women’s Club of South County Scholarships

Our scholarship program provides financial support towards tuition for women in Washington County pursuing education, vocational training, certificates or degrees at accredited universities and technical schools.

Who should apply?

• Women age 20 or older

• Washington County residents

• Applicants demonstrating financial need

• Students enrolled in or accepted into an eligible educational or career program at an accredited university or technical school.

Application deadline: October 1, 2026

These are more than scholarships. They are investments in women who are working to create a different future for themselves and their families.

Grow Hope Grants

Our Grow Hope grant program supports local 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations addressing some of the most pressing needs in our community with a preference for programs that positively impact women and children such as:

• Food security

• Housing

• Mental health support

In 2025, the Women’s Club awarded $52,776 to 23 local nonprofit organizations doing this important work.

Application deadline: October 9, 2026

When we talk about philanthropy, we often focus on the act of giving. But there is another form of generosity that costs nothing: sharing information.

Maybe you know a woman who has put her education on hold because of financial circumstances. Maybe you know a nonprofit constantly looking for resources to keep an important program going.

A conversation, an email or a social media share could connect them to an opportunity they didn't know existed.

Help us get the word out. Because sometimes the difference between someone receiving the support they need and missing an opportunity is simply knowing that the door is open.

Learn more about the GFWC Women’s Club of South County Scholarship Program and Grow Hope Grants at gfwcri.org or email gfwcwcsc@gmail.com