The 17th Annual Power of the Purse Luncheon, hosted by the Women’s Fund of Smith County (WFSC), was a vibrant celebration of philanthropy and community. Held on Tuesday at the Green Acres CrossWalk Conference Center, the event brought together over 700 community members and leaders for an afternoon focused on giving and connection. “I loved the energy in the room,” said Zoe Lawhorn, president and CEO of the Women’s Fund of Smith County.
“Every year, we have such a great audience...
a very supportive group of women, and now a few men, who are really committed to this community. It’s always a joyful time.” The Power of the Purse is the organization’s signature event, celebrating the power and impact of collective giving.
The event featured a video presentation introduced by Assistant Vice-Chair for Grants Michelle Carr. The presentation spotlighted two of the 2024 WFSC grant recipients: Camp Tyler Foundation and Children’s Village and Family Services . The program also showcased GIVE (Girls Invested in Volunteer Efforts) , the fund's initiative aimed at introducing high school girls to the concept of collective giving.
The WFSC, founded in 2007, operates as a collective giving circle. Over 360 women are members of the organization, benefiting from education on community issues, best practices in philanthropy, and participation in the annual grant-making process. Members contribute through annual pledges and their votes.
“Our mission is to transform the commu.
