WOMEN’S PHILANTHROPY
In the past three decades, the creation of women’s funds has been inspirational for women’s philanthropic giving. Women want to be focused and effective and often want their generosity to benefit women and girls. By sharing an understanding of opportunities and barriers for women and girls, women’s funds have contributed to the growth of women’s philanthropy.
WOMEN’S FUNDS INITIATIVE
When Merle Chambers established Chambers Fund, one of her priorities was to create something of lasting value in the states where her family’s oil business operated. Drawing from Merle’s experience in founding The Women’s Foundation of Colorado, Chambers Fund partnered with community foundations in Montana, Oklahoma and Wyoming to create women’s funds. These enduring, dedicated funds empower women, listen to women’s voices and help to break the cycle of poverty. They also increase women’s philanthropy in geographic areas where few philanthropic dollars were directed to programs serving women and girls. Chambers Fund continues to provide annual operating support for these women’s funds.
THE CHAMBERS CENTER
Chambers Fund supported the vision behind The Merle Catherine Chambers Center for the Advancement of Women and made a commitment to its creation by contributing the lead gift. This contribution helped realize the vision of a permanent home for The Women’s Foundation of Colorado and was dedicated in 2004.
The Chambers Center houses two of Colorado’s leading proponents for the education and advancement of women and girls in our state. The Women’s Foundation of Colorado and Colorado Women’s College offer educational and leadership development opportunities, make grants to improve women’s economic security, research women’s issues, facilitate networking and encourage philanthropy. Together at The Chambers Center, each organization continues its individual efforts while mobilizing to promote a society where the talents and skills of all women are valued, developed and utilized.