History 

In 1999, the United Way of Buffalo and Erie County and the Community Foundation for Greater Buffalo each recognized that the needs of women in our region.  Both organizations were already deeply committed to the issues of women and girls but felt there was an opportunity for more to be done. 

Together with a group of women community leaders they created the WNY Women's Fund.  The women set out to deepen their understanding of issues affecting women and girls. They defined a shared vision and goals by establishing an endowment fund to ensure support for programs to reach these goals. 

The same leaders and supporters worked tirelessly to grow the WNY Women's Fund into a self-sustaining, independent organization.  Over a decade later - as the WNY Women's Foundation - we are a separate 501(c)3, non-profit.  

As the WNY Women's Foundation, we will have greater ability to advocate on behalf of women and girls.  We will continue to raise money and make impact grants to local community programs that result in systemic change and help women and girls develop self-reliance and become economically self-sufficient.  The first 10 years as the WNY Women's Fund has proven that we are a necessary piece in the puzzle to helping Western New York families thrive.  The next 10 years - and beyond - will be an exciting time for growth and opportunity.

We may have a new look and a new name, yet our focus remains the same. Together, we are one step closer to transforming our community by focusing on the future for women and girls.