Making a difference in the Lowcountry through the power of collective giving.

WHO WE ARE

Women in Philanthropy is a giving circle of more than 200 women representing diverse perspectives, experiences, and life stages who believe in the power of collective giving. Together, we pool our financial resources, experiences, and insights to advance the work of nonprofit organizations in Beaufort County.  Guided by a women’s lens, we work collaboratively to understand community needs and invest in solutions that create lasting impact.

Founded in 2003, WIP has raised $3 million, awarding $1.2 million in grants and building a $2 million endowment to ensure a lasting legacy of giving. WIP is a fund of the Community Foundation of the Lowcountry 

WIP welcomes women to join our community at any time by making an annual membership contribution of $300 or more, which supports our grant-making and endowment.

Grantmaking

Women in Philanthropy awards grants each year to nonprofit organizations making a meaningful impact across the Lowcountry. Each summer, members play an active role by voting on the annual grant focus, guided by the Grants Committee and Advisory Board.

Our grant-making is rooted in a commitment to strengthen individuals, families, and communities. Funding is typically directed to organizations working in the areas of arts and culture, community development, education, the environment, health, and human services—where thoughtful investment can create lasting, positive outcomes.

WIP 2026 Grant Focus

WIP 2026 Grant Application Link

WIP Grantmaking History

WIP Awards $148,700 in Grants in 2025

Education

WIP offers year-round educational opportunities that introduce members to philanthropy—what it is, how it works, and how collective giving creates impact.   Our Grants in Action program then brings that learning to life, giving members the chance to meet nonprofit leaders, visit organizations across the Lowcountry, and see our grants in action. By participating, members support our grant making program, connect with the nonprofits we fund, and serve as thoughtful stewards of our grants—all while building friendships and making a real impact in the community.

Events

In addition to WIP’s three annual events, members enjoy a mix of networking, WIP and SIP gatherings, and social events throughout the year where members build connections, have fun, and support meaningful work in the Lowcountry.

Annual Events

  • Fall Luncheon with Keynote Speaker
  • Holiday Party
  • Grant Awards Luncheon

Upcoming Events

  • Grants in Action: Learn. Serve. Support Military Families - February 24 - 3:00-5:00 pm
  • Grant Awards Luncheon - May 13 - 11:30 am-1:30 pm - Country Club of Hilton Head

JOIN US

No matter your level of involvement, membership in WIP is a home base for women who are passionate about creating positive change in our community.  If you are interested in becoming a member of Women in Philanthropy, please take a moment to read our membership brochure. If you would like to join online, click here. 

If you prefer to mail in a check, please send to:

Community Foundation of the Lowcountry - WIP, P.O. Box 23019, Hilton Head Island, SC 29925

Please include “WIP Membership” in the memo line of your check.

If you'd like to make a gift of stock or IRA, or for more information, contact Lisa Hodge at 843-681-9100 or lhodge@cf-lowcountry.org

Legacy Giving - Dr. Juliann Bluitt Foster

Dr. Juliann Bluitt Foster was a longtime and dedicated member of Women in Philanthropy, active from 2007 until her passing in 2019. She was a valued leader on the WIP Grants Committee, serving several years as chair and helping guide WIP’s grantmaking work.

Through a generous bequest, Juliann established the Dr. Juliann Bluitt Foster Memorial Fund, which continues to support WIP’s mission. Each year, the Grants Committee recommends one or more grants from the fund’s annual endowment distribution, extending her impact throughout the Lowcountry.

WIP members have a meaningful opportunity to create a lasting legacy by including Women in Philanthropy in their estate plans. To learn more about legacy giving, please contact Emmy Rooney at 843-681-9100.

Newsletters and WIP Documents

Newsletters

WIP Organizational Documents and Links

WIP Strategic Plan 2025-27 

WIP Operating Guidelines

Officer and Standing Committee Responsibilities

WIP is a Proud Member of Philanos

Frequently Asked Questions

"Receiving our first grant from Women in Philanthropy is a milestone we carry with deep gratitude. Thank you for believing in our mission and the lives we serve. Because of your support, young people have been given renewed hope and a second chance. Your generosity reminds us that it truly takes a village."

- Spirit of Sebastian

WIP Advisory Board

Dedria Cruden, Chair

Victoria Olson , Vice-Chair

Mary-Stuart Alderman, Governance Chair

Kaye Black; Membership Chair

Liz Castrillion, Finance Chair

Pamela Stone, Education Chair

Gigi Maxfield, Communications Chair

Stephanie Santos, Events Chair

Shirley "Peaches" Peterson, Member at Large Chair

Lyn Kaplan, Grants Chair

For more details on membership and how you can get involved, please contact Lisa Hodge at 843-681-9100 or lhodge@cf-lowcountry.org