View as Webpage

Greetings!

At the Community Foundation of Howard County, generosity is at the heart of everything we do. 

People are most inspired to give when they feel connected to a cause, a community, or a story that resonates with their heart - connections that are shaped by history, leadership, and lived experience. 

We recognize Black History Month and honor the legacy and leadership of Black individuals and organizations whose generosity and vision continue to strengthen our community. We also celebrate our Black Philanthropy Circle of Howard County (BPC), a fund here at CFHC, as members who strive to fulfill BPC's mission to "promote philanthropy, to advance equity, and to support nonprofit organizations that address unmet needs of Howard County Residents who trace their origins to the African diaspora." 

This year we’re focused on creating more opportunities for connection, learning, and meaningful engagement. Whether you are a longtime donor, a nonprofit partner, a professional advisor, or someone just beginning to explore philanthropy, we are here to meet you where you are.

In the coming months, we invite you to connect with us in new and accessible ways. 

Through our new Mornings With Melissa, Ask Dee!, and our givinglab. Lunch & Learns, we’re opening the door to conversation about giving, impact, community needs, and the many ways philanthropy can reflect your values. These gatherings are designed to be informative and practical, offering space to ask questions, share ideas, and learn alongside others who care deeply about Howard County.

Our team is here to serve as your partners in philanthropy, offering guidance, expertise, and connection every step of the way.

Generosity is not just about giving - it’s about relationships and trust. We’re grateful to walk alongside you as a partner in philanthropy and community impact, and we hope you’ll join us for one (or more) of these opportunities to connect, learn, and engage. I invite you to contact me or the team at anytime.

Together, we continue to strengthen the heart of generosity in Howard County.

From my heart to yours,

Melissa Curtin

President & CEO

mcurtin@cfhoco.org

This Valentine’s Day, honor someone you love with a gift that gives back close to home. A gift to CFHC’s Local Giving, Better Living Fund supports community grantmaking for Howard County nonprofits - because when we give locally, we all benefit.

Be sure to click on the "Donation in Memory or Honor" button and enter your Valentine's name when you make your gift. With each contribution you make, we will send you a personalized digital Valentine recognizing your donation in honor of your special someone that you can share with them.

CFHC partners with and invests in nonprofits across Howard County - working alongside organizations like the Association of Community Services to strengthen programs, build capacity, and meet community needs. We encourage the community to explore ACS’s impactful programs and resources.

Whether you are a donor exploring how to make the greatest impact, a nonprofit navigating evolving community needs, a company seeking to align its values with meaningful community investment, or a community member interested in learning more about philanthropy in Howard County, our dedicated staff team is here to serve as your partners in philanthropy. 



Collectively, our team has over 100 years of combined professional experience in the nonprofit and philanthropic sectors. Our passion for serving Howard County and for increasing philanthropic resources to better meet community needs is evident in every team member from the moment you meet us. 

The Community Foundation of Howard County (CFHC) inspires lifelong giving and connects people, places, and purpose to build a stronger, more vibrant Howard County. Since its founding in 1969, we have worked in partnership with donors, nonprofits, and community leaders to strengthen local philanthropy, steward philanthropic resources, and support initiatives that improve the quality of life for all who live and work in our community. Through donor-advised funds, scholarships, grants, and community leadership, CFHC helps individuals, families, and businesses to make a meaningful, lasting impact now and for generations to come.

Learn more at www.cfhoco.org