Manatee Women Giving Back is expanding its circle of community-minded women while continuing its mission of supporting local nonprofit organizations addressing the needs of women, children, education, hunger, and homelessness throughout Manatee County.
Founded in 2013, the women’s giving circle has contributed well over $300,000 in grants to local nonprofit organizations. The group maintains a charitable fund through Manatee Community Foundation, allowing members to pool their financial resources and collectively determine where their contributions can make the greatest impact.
The group recently welcomed five additional members, strengthening its ability to support community initiatives. Although annual grant distributions vary, members hope to increase their financial contributions to local nonprofits as the giving circle continues to grow.
What distinguishes Manatee Women Giving Back is its hands-on approach to philanthropy. Rather than simply reviewing grant applications, members meet directly with nonprofit leaders, learn about their programs, and frequently conduct site visits to better understand the challenges organizations face and how additional funding could help.
One example of the group’s impact is its support of PACE Center for Girls – Manatee. According to an October 22, 2026, report from Manatee Community Foundation, the giving circle committed to a two-year grant supporting PACE’s Reach program, which provides counseling services to children in schools and community settings.
The contribution helped advance the program and supported a dedicated Reach office in PACE’s new facility. The project marked the first time Manatee Women Giving Back sponsored a space bearing the organization’s name.
The giving circle has also supported Manatee Children’s Services, including its Welcome to Our House capital project, and has been recognized among the supporters of Samaritan Counseling Services of the Gulf Coast.
Through their collective giving model, members have an opportunity to develop relationships with local nonprofit leaders while learning more about the needs of the community.
The organization recognizes that many nonprofits rely on a combination of grants, donations, and government funding to maintain essential services. Even organizations receiving state or federal assistance may face funding gaps that limit their ability to expand programs or meet growing demand.
As Manatee County continues to grow, Manatee Women Giving Back remains committed to identifying opportunities where collective philanthropy can make a meaningful difference.
Nonprofit organizations serving women, children, education, hunger, and homelessness are encouraged to contact Kathy Marshall at marshallkathy14@hotmail.com for information about grant applications and funding opportunities.
Women interested in joining Manatee Women Giving Back can also contact Ms. Marshall to learn more about membership and opportunities to participate in the giving circle.
