Women's Giving Circle Announces 2026 "Building the Next Chapter" Event Series

All women are invited to join the 2026 Women’s Giving Circle.

Photo provided.

(Ripley County, Ind.) - The Women’s Giving Circle, a program of the Ripley County Community Foundation, is proud to announce its 2026 event calendar under the theme, “We The Women: Building the Next Chapter.” As our nation enters its 250th year of independence, we are reminded that a strong community is not a static achievement, it is something we build together.

This year, we are deepening the concept of "Citizen Philanthropy," empowering every member to act as a civic founder by directing vital resources to local nonprofits serving women and children. In 2026, the Women’s Giving Circle will expand its reach and engagement by hosting a full calendar of events designed to strengthen relationships, grow participation, and increase our collective impact.

Why the Women’s Giving Circle Matters

The Women’s Giving Circle plays a vital role in strengthening Ripley County by bringing women together to learn, serve, and give collectively. By pooling members’ contributions, the Circle amplifies individual generosity into transformational community impact. Membership is open to all, and everyone is invited to join, regardless of age or experience in philanthropy. Every member has a voice and a vote—ensuring that the grant dollars reflect the priorities and values of the community itself.

2026 Event Kickoff: Yoga & Meditation

To kick off this year of collective impact, the Women’s Giving Circle invites women to a Yoga & Meditation event on Wednesday, February 25th, from 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM at the Southeastern IN YMCA. This session, led by instructor Lisa Tuveson, offers an hour of mindfulness and relaxation. Registration is $30 per person, and in keeping with the Women’s Giving Circle mission, ticket proceeds go directly toward sustaining the Women’s Giving Circle’s outreach.

“A strong community is not a static historical fact; it is an ongoing creation built through the active engagement of its citizens,” said Amy Streator, Ripley County Community Foundation

Executive Director. “This year, we are stepping forward to formally author the future of Ripley County. Our first event is designed to merge personal wellness with community care, proving that even a small act, like attending a yoga class, can fuel significant change.”

By donating, every attendee ensures that the Women’s Giving Circle can continue its work of directing vital resources toward the health, safety, and success of our neighbors throughout Ripley County.

The full 2026 Women’s Giving Circle event series includes:

· February 25: Yoga & Meditation at the Southeastern IN YMCA in Batesville.

· April 21: Annual Luncheon at St. Maurice Catholic Church Hall in Napoleon.

· June 18: Flower Picking & Arranging at Petal Pushers U-Pic Flower Farm in Metamora.

· August 20: Sun, Fun, & Philanthropy Social at The Tanglewood Boutique Hotel and Venue in Versailles.

· September 24: Paint & Sip at The Shift Restaurant and Bar in Batesville.

Invitation to Join the 2026 Women’s Giving Circle

All women are invited to join the 2026 Women’s Giving Circle. Membership dues provide the funding for our annual Women’s Giving Circle grant pool, the resources awarded to local nonprofits supporting women and children.

As a member, you become a “civic founder” with the power to vote on which organizations receive funding, ensuring our resources are invested exactly where you believe they will create the most significant change.

In addition to directing these funds, members receive invitations to our two cornerstone gatherings: the annual Luncheon and the August Social. Whether you are joining us for a single event or stepping into a full membership, you are helping author the future of Ripley County.

2026 Membership Opportunities

Women’s Giving Circle Membership – $100

Each membership includes:

· Entrance to two cornerstone events:

o Annual Luncheon

o Sun, Fun, & Philanthropy Social

· Funding allocation:

o 75% of each gift will be granted in 2026

o 25% will support future grants

Junior Membership – $50 (under age 25)

Each membership includes:

· Entrance to two cornerstone events:

o Annual Luncheon

o Sun, Fun, & Philanthropy Social

· Funding allocation:

o 50% of each gift will be granted in 2026

o 50% will support future grants

Additional Event Ticketing The February, June, and September social events require a $30 ticket purchase for all attendees, including Women’s Giving Circle members and community guests.

Registration and Contact Information

Registration for the Yoga & Meditation event is now open with limited space for 50 participants. To secure a spot or to learn more about becoming a member of the Women’s Giving Circle, visit https://rccfonline.org/impact/initiatives/womens-giving-circle/ or contact the Ripley County Community Foundation.

The Ripley County Community Foundation is committed to Connecting People Who Care with Causes that Matter and is located at 13 E. George Street, Suite B, Batesville. To learn how you can invest in the future of Ripley County, or to leave your legacy, contact the Ripley County Community Foundation at (812) 933-1098 or visit www.rccfonline.org.