JACKSON, Tenn. – Community Foundation of West Tennessee hosted the 3rd Annual 100 Women Who Care Awards Luncheon on Thursday, March 5, 2026, awarding $15,000 in grants to local nonprofit organizations serving West Tennessee.
The event brings women together to give back, to connect with other women in the community, and to learn about nonprofits.
100 Women Who Care: West Tennessee received 31 funding applications in January from 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations and funds of the Foundation. A committee of members reviewed and scored proposals, narrowing the pool to three finalists in both the small and large nonprofit categories.
Small Nonprofit Finalists
• Carroll County Rescue Squad
• Rotary Heart and Sole Fund
• YoungLives
Large Nonprofit Finalists
• Aspell Recovery
• Hannah’s Hope
• United Way of West Tennessee
During the luncheon, each finalist presented its mission and funding proposal to members. Following the presentations, 100 Women Who Care donors voted to determine one grant recipient in each category. The grants are funded entirely through member contributions, demonstrating the power of collective giving.
The small nonprofit who received the most votes was Carroll County Rescue Squad. They received a $5,000 grant to install a free Lifejacket Loan Station at Lake Halford to reduce preventable drownings, especially among children and low-income families.
The large nonprofit with the most votes was Hannah’s Hope, receiving a $10,000 grant. They requested support to provide parenting supplies, including a diaper bag stocked with diapers, wipes, a baby toiletry kit, and outlet covers, Safe Sleep Kit, an infant car seat, and Safe Feeding and Breastfeeding supplies.
“100 Women Who Care continues to inspire me because it shows the heart of our community,” said Melissa Spurgeon, CEO of the Community Foundation of West Tennessee. “This program creates an inviting and meaningful way for women to step into philanthropy together. When women unite around causes that they care about, they strengthen our region and turn generosity into real impact.”
100 Women Who Care: West Tennessee brings women together to combine their charitable gifts and make a meaningful impact across the region. The initiative offers a welcoming space to connect, learn about nonprofits serving West Tennessee, and be part of accessible philanthropy. The group is an initiative of the Community Foundation of West Tennessee.
Established in 1985, the Community Foundation of West Tennessee works to strengthen the health and well-being of the region by serving as a catalyst for positive change in the arts, education, healthcare, and other causes. The Foundation enhances quality of life by supporting programs and organizations serving rural West Tennessee.
For more information about the event or the grant winners, visit www.cfwtn.org or contact Haley Fortune at haley@cfwtn.org or (731) 984-2146.