GIVING STORIES

Inflation and Philanthropy

By Zoe Lawhorn 2022 is halfway over, and researchers are busy examining emerging financial trends and the practical implications for our nonprofit community. As inflation begins to dominate headlines, I wonder what the impact of yet another economic shift might have...

Love, In Real Life

By Zoe Lawhorn I’m reading a book by Becca Stevens called “Practically Divine,” and in the first paragraph of the introduction, she said writes a simple phrase that resonates so strongly with me in this era of division and animosity. “Experience is nine-tenths of...

Teaching Giving

by Carrie-Ann Jasper-Yearty Over the past several years, I have had the privilege of serving local nonprofits by giving of my time, sharing my expertise, and investing financially. About three years ago, I invited my daughter, Ashley, into this part of my life by...

Mothers and Inspirational Others

by Jackie Bruton Spring brings a time of renewal, as the rain washes away the pollen and greens up the grass, while we watch with anticipation as the azaleas, bluebonnets, and roses bloom yet again. I also see spring as a time of reflection. As we approach our annual...

The Heart of Our Mission

by Zoe Lawhorn The heart of the mission of the Women’s Fund of Smith County is our Grants program. Every member makes her pledge and then casts her vote for projects that enrich the lives of women and children in Smith County. Together, our individual gifts can make a...

What is a Giving Circle?

by Zoe Lawhorn Philanthropy comes in all shapes and sizes. The kind of philanthropy that tends to make headlines seems larger than life and is often attached to names like Bezos and Gates; but there is no rule that says you must be wealthy to be a philanthropist. When...

Going for Gold

By Zoe Lawhorn After all the massive preparation, extreme Covid protocols, and even some icy, onscreen drama, the 2022 Bejing Winter Olympics have come to a close. I enjoyed watching the games, especially with my five-year-old son by my side, who was seeing most of...