Shelby, OH – The Shelby Foundation’s Women’s Fund is proud to announce the recipients of its largest grant cycle to date, providing a total of $13,450 to local organizations that uplift and empower women and children in Richland County.
The growth of the 100+ Women for Shelby initiative, along with a successful Giving Tuesday campaign that raised $10,000 in matching funds, allowed for expanded grant-making this year.
“We are honored to support these incredible initiatives that create meaningful change for women and families in our region,” said Carrie Kemerer, executive director of The Shelby Foundation. “This fund is about unlocking the full potential of women. Many donors feel deeply connected to ensuring the next generation has the resources to thrive.”
The 2025 grant recipients include:
- Acts 4 Love – Comfort Capes for Children at Akron Children’s Hospital ($2,350) – A volunteer organization that creates comfort items for Akron Children’s Hospital and other non-profits that request them.
- The Domestic Violence Shelter – Safe Start ($4,000) – A program helping women transition from domestic violence shelters, addressing the lasting impact of abuse.
- Shelby Help Line Ministries – Summer Lunches ($6,000) – Providing meals for children during the summer, supporting moms, grandmothers, aunts, and other caregivers for 11 weeks.
- Shelby Girl Scout Service Unit 814 – Girl Scout Summer Day Camp ($1,100) – A day camp that offers young girls the opportunity to face new challenges and connect with others who share their passions.
Since its founding in 2018, the Women’s Fund has awarded approximately $30,000 in grants to support local programs focused on education, leadership development, healthcare access, and financial empowerment for women and children. Funds from the Women’s Fund are not only distributed during this annual grant cycle but are also set aside for initiatives such as Operation Hygiene and holiday giving programs.
“The Shelby Foundation and its donors are deeply invested in making a difference,” Kemerer added. “It takes a village. When we have 180 women coming together, each giving $100 annually, we can really make an impact.”
The Shelby Foundation invites the community to celebrate these impactful organizations and learn more about how the Women’s Fund is making a difference. For more information about grant opportunities and how to get involved, visit www.theshelbyfoundation.org/womens-fund.
About the Shelby Foundation
The Shelby Foundation is dedicated to enriching the lives of individuals and families in Richland County by providing funding and support for community-driven projects. Through grant making and community partnerships, the Foundation works to foster growth, opportunity, and long-term sustainability.