Grants
Spark Awards
Spark Awards
Women’s Impact Fund (WIF) recognizes inspiring women leaders driving transformational change in Mecklenburg County through annual $5,000 Spark Awards. The awards are intended to support rest and renewal for these leaders and reflect a growing movement in philanthropy to support self-care and wellness in the nonprofit sector.
In addition to the cash award, recipients also receive a one-year WIF membership to provide additional opportunities for connection, leadership, and growth.
To-date, 18 incredible women have received a Spark Award.
Info Session Recording and Presentation
2026 Spark Recipients will be recognized awarded at our May Annual Meeting.
2025 Annual Meeting: Spark Award Overview
Investing in Those Dedicated to
Driving Community-centered Change
Leaders working at the forefront of community change and transformation often dedicate far more time and energy than average employees in the course of their work. They are typically fueled by a passion for the mission of their organizations/causes and often sacrifice their own well-being in pursuit of that mission, resulting in a cycle of burnout and recovery.
Many of these leaders also come from historically marginalized communities and have limited access to time off for rest, as well as fewer opportunities and/or resources to engage in other forms of personal and professional renewal.
We believe that people are the fulcrum of change. It is in our collective best interest to invest in the people who are dedicating themselves to drive community-centered change, and that everyone must have access to the opportunity to rest, renew, and grow.
Philanthropy stands at a crossroads—a choice between maintaining the status quo and embracing radical transformation. It’s a call to redefine our role as philanthropists, placing change agents at the heart of our efforts. By investing in the care of those we serve, we move beyond superficial support to create a compassionate force that propels leaders and organizations not just to survive but to thrive and amplify their impact.
Care-based philanthropy is not just a vision; it’s a necessity for a more just and equitable future and the foundation upon which, when sustained, impactful work can be built.
