Community Spotlight: 100+ Women Who Care
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Making a positive impact in the Smith Mountain Lake community through collective giving.
Since its founding in 2016, the Smith Mountain Lake chapter of 100+ Women Who Care has embodied the spirit of collective giving, creating meaningful change in our community. What began with a dedicated steering committee of seven women quickly grew to 100 members by the first meeting.
Today, the group has 161 members and continues to expand, thanks to the enthusiasm and generosity of local women.
The concept is both simple and impactful. Members meet three times a year and pledge $100 each time. They nominate charities serving Bedford, Franklin or Pittsylvania counties, and randomly select three to present their mission at each meeting.
After the presentations, members vote and the group awards the pooled funds to the chosen organization. A private foundation often amplifies these donations with a 50 percent match, turning each $100 contribution into an even greater force for good.
In 2024, the group distributed $45,725 to support The Shepherd’s Table, Fostering Champions and Scruggs Volunteer Fire & Rescue. Other nonprofits that have benefited include the Franklin County YMCA, SML Good Neighbors, Healing Strides, Habitat for Humanity, Lake Christian Ministries and Stepping Stone Mission.
Since the chapter’s inception, members have distributed more than $350,000 to 17 local charities.
The benefits of this giving circle extend beyond financial support. Members gain insight into community needs and feel empowered knowing their collective contributions make a tangible difference. According to a recent survey, 57 percent of members have gone on to volunteer or donate further to the charities they’ve supported.
100+ Women Who Care will meet at 5 p.m. on May 15 at Ramulose Ridge Vineyards and 10 a.m. on Sept. 17 at Bethlehem United Methodist Church. Interested women are welcome to attend or reach out via email at [email protected].
