October 2026 Membership Corner
New Members
Our first quarter as an independent organization has brought wonderful new faces. We’re delighted to welcome the following members, who have joined since our June newsletter: Katie Barkdoll, Mary Barry, Bloom Aesthetics & Wellness, Lauren Behsudi, Julianne Chappell, Natalie Cioffi, Nancy Davis, Deborah Henry, Karie McDonald, Joy Oliver, Jolena Simoneau, Amy Vanderryn, and Kristen Watkins. Our circle now numbers 526 members. Together, we’re proving that when we pool our giving, our reach grows far beyond what any of us could achieve alone.
Membership Level Changes
We recognize the following members who have recently advanced to a new membership giving level:
Hope Diamond: Alexa Bedwell
Emerald: Susan Best, Alison Bomba, Dianne Brown, Brandi Wastler
Red Diamond: Karlys Kline
We appreciate your generosity in making the Giving Circle a priority in your philanthropic efforts.
Member Survey
Earlier this month, we sent our members a survey to gather input that will directly shape the WGC Board’s year-end strategic planning. The survey was developed with help from the consultants engaged through our multi-year grant from the Ausherman Foundation. We’re pleased to report that nearly 100 members responded. Thank you! We look forward to building your priorities and feedback into our planning, and we’ll share highlights of the results in an upcoming communication.
WGC Elevator Pitch
Ever wondered how to describe the Giving Circle to a friend in just a few sentences? We encourage you to speak from your own experience, but here’s a starting point:
Through collective giving, the Women’s Giving Circle makes a meaningful impact in Frederick County. Building on a 20-year legacy, the WGC awards grants to local nonprofits that help women move from crisis to stability and, ultimately, to thriving. Members also connect, celebrate, learn together, and volunteer when they’d like.
Not a member yet? We’d love for you to join us!
Membership is open to everyone, including men, businesses, and organizations. There’s no invitation or sponsor needed; just come as you are. Every new member helps power our grant program and expands what we can give back to Frederick County.
We offer special membership options for Juniors (under 21), Young Members (under 35), and organizations. Visit our membership page to learn more, or reach out to our membership chair at membership@frederickwgc.org. We’re happy to connect in person, by phone, email, or Zoom, whatever works best for you.
Or simply stop by one of our monthly Coffee Chats, held the second Tuesday of every month from 7:30 to 8:30am at Dublin Roasters on North Market Street. Grab a cup, meet some members, and see what the Circle is all about.
We can’t wait to meet you!
