02 Oct Fulton County Women’s Giving Circle Awards $10,000 in Grants at Annual Gathering
The Fulton County Women’s Giving Circle, a program of the Fulton County Community Foundation, celebrated its Annual Social Gathering on Tuesday, September 30, at the Mellow Mug Café. Surrounded by fellowship, good food, and community spirit, members awarded a total of $10,000 in grants to support local nonprofit organizations.
This year, the Fulton County Women’s Giving Circle awarded a $3,000 grant to the Fulton County Youth Center to support its Outdoor Oasis project, and a $2,500 grant to the Rochester Girls Softball League for the development of a new playground. The Macy Food Pantry received $2,000 to provide food and hygiene items for local families in need. The City of Rochester was awarded $1,250 for its Summer Parks Program, and The HeARTery received $1,250 to create a kitchenette for its community space.
Since its inception in 2010, the Women’s Giving Circle has now granted over $100,000 to organizations serving Fulton County.
One of the group’s founders, Judy Climie, reflected on the evening by saying, “Fulton County is such a wonderful, giving community. I’ve watched it grow over the years, and I’m so proud of the generosity and positive change that continues to take place here.”
Brian Johnson, Director of Development for the Fulton County Community Foundation, added, “The Women’s Giving Circle shows us what’s possible when generosity multiplies. When women come together, their collective impact becomes a powerful force for change in Fulton County. These grants aren’t just dollars — they’re seeds of hope that will grow into something lasting.”
The Fulton County Women’s Giving Circle extends special thanks to Mellow Mug Café for hosting and Beyond Bruno’s for providing delicious catering. Most of all, the group is grateful for the dedication of both new and returning members, whose generosity makes this community impact possible.
The Women’s Giving Circle welcomes any woman with a heart for giving back. Whether you live in Fulton County or simply care about its future, you can become a member and take part in this inspiring effort. Women can already begin paying their 2026 dues online here to ensure their vote counts at next year’s gathering.
Macy Food Pantry Director Amy Eckrote with Brian Johnson
Summer Parks Program Staff Lindsay Barts and Abi Cronin
The HeARTery board members Linda Leasure and Jennifer Weinert
Rochester Girls Softball League players Amelia Bahney and Madison Miller with board member Katie Miller
Fulton County Youth Center Executive Director Taylor Showley