
In 1993, a group of 100 women came together with one goal in mind: to make a difference in the lives of local women and girls. Seeing a need for funding to support programs that empower this population, the women each gave $1,000 to establish the Women's Endowment Fund of Akron Community Foundation.
Three decades later, the Women's Endowment Fund has grown to nearly $5 million, thanks to the generosity of donors who are committed to the advancement of local women and girls, including members of the fund's Circle of Empowerment. To date, the Women's Endowment Fund has awarded $2.3 million in grants to programs that uplift, empower, and educate women and girls throughout Akron and all of Summit County. The fund's biennial forum helps define the Women's Endowment Fund's grantmaking priorities, which include health and wellness, safety from violence, and economic empowerment.
Circle of Empowerment | Annual Celebration | 30th Anniversary Timeline | Latest Newsletter | Latest Videos
For Women, Forever
Each year, the Women's Endowment Fund hosts its signature "For Women, Forever" event to celebrate women as philanthropists and to showcase the fund's impact on women and girls in our community. The next event will take place on Thursday, March 20, 2025, and will feature a keynote address by Valerie Mayén, founder of the socially conscious fashion brand Yellowcake. The evening will conclude with the presentation of the 2025 Judith A. Read Tribute Award to Katie Smucker, a dedicated community volunteer and philanthropist.
Our Recent Grants
By the Numbers
Advisory Board
Advisory board members serve without pay to help the fund impact the lives of Summit County's women and girls.

Vice President, Private Wealth Management, Robert W. Baird & Co.

CFO & In-House Legal Counsel, Leppo Group Inc.

Director, Community Affairs & Engagement, The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company

Vice President, Investor Relations & Treasurer, Myers Industries Inc.


Cohen & Company









Akron Metropolitan Housing Authority

The Well CDC


Merrill Lynch


Kent State University



News & Events
News
Cleveland-based fashion entrepreneur Valerie Mayén will deliver keynote address Tickets to the Women's Endowment Fund's annual "For Women, Forever" celebration are now on [...]
The Women's Endowment Fund of Akron Community Foundation invites community members and leaders to save the date for its annual "For Women, Forever" celebration on Thursday, [...]