News & Updates
Explore news, announcements, and stories from the Strong Women Strong Futures network.
Recent news & updates

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.

WFET Sustainability Grantees Announcement
Women’s Fund of East Tennessee (WFET) announces first recipients of their new “Self-Sustainability” grant program to include Girls Inc. of TN Valley, YWCA of Knoxville and the TN Valley, and Safe Harbor Child Advocacy Center.

Women’s Fund of East Tennessee Grant Announcement
The Women’s Fund of East Tennessee (WFET) announces a new, rolling grant strategy to support the continuation of services and programs through a privately funded “Self-Sustainability” grant program.

’24-’26 SWSF Grant Award Winners Announced
The Women’s Fund of East Tennessee (WFET) is pleased to announce the newest members of the Strong Women, Strong Futures (SWSF) network.

Linda Spence- Why I give
How did you first learn about the Women’s Fund? My introduction to the Women's Fund was eight years ago at a presentation given by a group of Founders, Board Members, and staff in Johnson City. The enthusiasm and professional approach of the presenters was very...