FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Media Contact:
Dr. Jamee Rodgers, CEO, The Community Foundation
Phone: 540-373-9292 x120
FREDERICKSBURG, VA — The Community Foundation of the Rappahannock River Region is now accepting applications for the $50,000 Women and Girls Fund Grant, a one-time award supporting nonprofit programs that advance the health, education, safety, wellness, and economic stability of women and girls throughout the region.
The Women and Girls Fund is both a component fund of The Community Foundation and a local movement that engages women in philanthropy. Established in 2008 by the Community Foundation’s Board of Governors as a field of interest fund, it was created to address persistent and systemic challenges facing women and girls and to invest in solutions that strengthen families and communities for generations.
Research shows that social investment in women reduces poverty, increases productivity, and improves long-term outcomes for families and communities. Investing in girls yields even greater returns, improving lifetime earnings, health, and educational attainment. Through targeted grantmaking and community engagement, the Women and Girls Fund works to break cycles of inequity while empowering women leaders to contribute time, talent, and financial resources toward meaningful change.
The 2026 Women and Girls Fund Grant will award $50,000 to a nonprofit organization or program serving the region. While applicants may serve a broad population, proposals must clearly articulate how the funding will address the unique needs of women and girls and align with the mission and priorities of the Women and Girls Fund.
Grant Details
- Award Amount: One-time grant of $50,000
- Applications Opened: January 5, 2026
- Application Deadline: February 23, 2026, at 5:00 PM
- Funding Decision: Determined by a live membership vote at the Live Ballot Event, taking place on May 7, 2026
- Use of Funds: Grant funds must be expended within 10 months of award
Additional information may be requested during the review process.
In 2025, the Women and Girls Fund awarded its $50,000 grant to the Fairy Godmother Project, which provides emotional and financial support to families navigating pediatric cancer. The grant expanded direct aid for lodging, gas, meals, and daily necessities; increased access to counseling and emotional support services for parents and siblings; and strengthened respite services—helping families focus on their child’s health without added financial stress.
The Women and Girls Fund was founded with the vision of 1,000 women pledging $1,000 each to build a $1 million endowment dedicated to advancing opportunities for women and girls. Grant funding decisions are guided by the Fund’s membership, ensuring community-informed philanthropy grounded in lived experience and shared values.
Regional nonprofits are encouraged to apply.
To review eligibility requirements and submit an application, visit:
👉 www.cfrrr.org/apply/women-and-girls-fund
For questions, contact info@cfrrr.org
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About The Community Foundation
The Community Foundation is a tax-exempt public charity committed to enhancing the quality of life for the more than 407,000 residents of Planning District 16, which includes the City of Fredericksburg and the counties of Caroline, King George, Spotsylvania, and Stafford. We serve individuals, families, businesses, and organizations united by a shared goal—strengthening our region through impactful philanthropy.
In 2025, the Community Foundation awarded more than $235,000 in scholarships, providing critical support for students pursuing higher education. We steward 219 named charitable funds, established by donors to support a wide array of causes. Last year alone, we distributed over $3.3 million in grants to nonprofits and community initiatives across the region.
With more than $60 million in assets under management, the Community Foundation maintains a strong financial position, ensuring responsible stewardship and long-term sustainability for the charitable funds entrusted to us. Our sound financial footing allows us to support the evolving needs of our community today and for generations to come.
For more information, please call (540) 373-9292, email info@cfrrr.org or visit www.cfrrr.org.