News & Updates
Explore news, announcements, and stories from the Strong Women Strong Futures network.
An update from our Executive director
From Julie’s Desk…
Our 15th Anniversary Year has launched with a blast—thankfully not the Arctic kind we’ve all been experiencing recently! As we celebrate this milestone, we are truly “saving a seat at our table for you” and actively seeking luncheon sponsorships.
If you are reading this, we hope you have already made plans to join us on Thursday, March 26.
Recent news & updates
Grantee Spotlight: Fostering Hope TN
We sat down with Chante Hensley, Executive Director of Fostering Hope TN, one of the Women’s Fund’s newer Self-Sustainability grantees that has supported foster care, adoption, and kinship community in our area since 2013. Chante and her husband, Matt, have not only...
Turning Advocacy Into Action With Savanna’s Law
A major milestone for Tennessee took effect on January 1, 2026, with the implementation of Savanna’s Law. This new legislation makes Tennessee the first state in the nation to establish a registry for persistent domestic violence offenders, an important step toward...
Building Sustainable Futures Through Education
One clear objective of the Women’s Fund of East Tennessee is advancing post-secondary education as a powerful pathway to self-sustainability. Education beyond high school opens doors to economic security, leadership, and long-term stability for women and girls,...
Grantee Spotlight: East Tennessee Artscapes
Recognized as a 2024 Sustainability Grant Recipient, East Tennessee Artscapes is weaving creativity and community together in Cocke County. We connected with Project Director Shanon Kelley to explore their work more deeply. Women’s Fund: Shanon, East Tennessee...
Board Member Q&A with Alice Mercer: Why I Support the Women’s Fund—and How You Can Too
We had the chance to sit down with Alice Mercer, Founder and Board Member of the Women’s Fund of East Tennessee, to learn more about what inspires her giving. As one of the visionaries behind our mission, Alice shares her perspective on building a lasting legacy...
Support Women, Save on Taxes, Leave a Legacy
The Women’s Fund of East Tennessee is committed to creating a brighter future for women and girls across our region. By breaking down barriers to opportunity, education, and economic security, the Women’s Fund is changing lives and building stronger communities across...
Leading with Purpose: Women Driving Philanthropic Change
The Women’s Fund is honored to stand as a proud example of the growing momentum in women-led giving. Founded, supported, and led by strong female leaders from our region and beyond, we are deeply grateful for the women who champion our mission every day. We invite you...
Grantee Spotlight: Girl Scouts of Southern Appalachians
We recently caught up with Alicia White Price, Chief Development Officer at the Girl Scouts of Southern Appalachians (GSCSA), a recent recipient of our new Self-Sustainability Fund grant. Q: Alicia, there have been a lot of changes in the Girl Scouts over the last...
How YOU Make the Difference
Our fundraising efforts have consistently exceeded expectations, driven by the steadfast support of our dedicated donors and friends who believe in our mission.
Women shouldn’t have to choose between child care and post-secondary education | Opinion
As we reflect on the end of the 2023 Tennessee General Assembly, Tennesseeans everywhere have to face a stark reality; the world was watching during this last session, but for all the wrong reasons.