Fall 2026

From Our President:

A Season of Growth, Gratitude and Impact

Dear Friends,

As the leaves change and we settle into the beauty of fall, I find myself reflecting on growth, gratitude and the lasting impact of the seeds we plant today. Fall is a season that invites us to pause, celebrate what we've accomplished together, and look ahead to what we hope to cultivate in the years to come.

That spirit was especially evident at our recent Circle of Empowerment Immersion Event, where members and board leaders heard directly from organizations receiving support through our Economic Empowerment grantmaking pillar. Their stories were a powerful reminder that behind every grant is an opportunity to create meaningful change for women and girls throughout Summit County.

This season also brings fresh energy to our board as we welcome Rita Aggarwal, Sonya Williams and Becky Guzy Woodford. Their experience, insight and commitment to our mission will help strengthen the work ahead.

More than 30 years ago, our Founding Mothers planted the seeds of what would become the Women's Endowment Fund. Today, the impact of their vision continues to grow. This year alone, WEF awarded $199,000 in grants to 39 organizations across our three funding priorities.

As we approach the season of giving, I invite you to consider the legacy we are creating together. Whether through an annual gift, Circle of Empowerment donation, or a planned gift, your generosity helps ensure opportunities for women and girls continue to flourish.

I am deeply grateful for our supporters, board members and community partners. Together, we are building a stronger future and planting seeds of possibility that will continue to grow for years to come.

With gratitude,

Erin Leppo Palmer

Advisory Board President, Women's Endowment Fund

In August, supporters of the Women’s Endowment Fund gathered at the Akron Woman’s City Club for the Circle of Empowerment Gratitude Gathering, an annual celebration honoring the donors whose leadership gifts help sustain and grow the fund’s impact. Guests reflected on the fund’s history, celebrated the collective philanthropy that continues to advance opportunities for women and girls, and learned more about local nonprofit organizations creating meaningful change throughout our community.

Established in 2018, the Circle of Empowerment recognizes donors who make annual gifts of $1,000 or more to the Women’s Endowment Fund, helping to ensure the fund’s long-term growth and grantmaking impact. Through their generosity, members of the Circle of Empowerment are investing in a stronger future for women and girls, now and for generations to come.

Circle of Empowerment members receive:

• Special recognition at Women’s Endowment Fund events and in select fund publications
• Exclusive first-to-know communications about fund news and impact
• An invitation to the annual Circle of Empowerment Gratitude Gathering
• The opportunity to join a community of philanthropists dedicated to empowering women and girls

If you or someone you know would like to join the Circle, please contact Deb Hoffman at dhoffman@akroncf.org or fill out the pledge form. Our giving circle is open to everyone!

Maximize your impact with a gift that aligns with your philanthropic and financial goals. The Women’s Endowment Fund accepts a variety of assets, including cash, mutual funds, retirement accounts and real estate. No matter how you choose to give, your support can help transform the lives of local women and girls.