What is 100 Women Lexington?

100 women is a women’s donor and advocacy organization that supports nonprofits that serve women and family needs in Lexington, Kentucky. This support is accomplished through a yearly distribution of funds from annual membership dues. All donations go to our chosen list of nonprofit agencies.  Members designate which agencies and the amount of that member’s dues the agencies will receive.

I remember 100 Women Lexington from years ago. Is this the same organization?

Yes and No. In 2004, the YWCA lost funding from both the United Way and Kentucky Domestic Violence Association due to a lack of accountability. As a result, the Domestic Violence Shelter was closed. In response, a community activist, J D Lester, created 100 Women to mobilize women and financial resources to raise funds to assist in the opening of a new shelter. With the administrative support of the United Way of the Bluegrass the fund raised over $140,000 to assist in the creation of a new shelter which continues today. The 100 Women brand was resurrected to support a broader support of services benefiting women and their children.

Why was 100 Women Lexington “resurrected”? 

There are over 500 similar women funding organizations in the country that involve over 12,000 women and raising over $100 million each year. We felt that the women in our community are poised to take it to the next level. 

Who does 100 Women Lexington fund and how is that decision made?

The monies in the 100 Women fund are distributed to nonprofits that serve women and their families in Lexington, Kentucky .The first year, 2013, by invitation, we supported ten local non-profits including Big Brothers Big Sisters, Bluegrass Domestic Violence, CASA, Child Development Center of the Bluegrass, Chrysalis House, Florence Crittenden Home, New Opportunity School for Women, Rape Crisis, Salvation Army and The Nest.  

Can I designate my Founder’s Circle membership to one/several of these non-profits?

ll membership levels can designate. 100 Women currently supports ten nonprofits who provide services to women and families. The membership dues are a commitment to a $1,000.00 personal donation or raising $1,000.00 for the 100 Women Fund annually. 

Is my membership tax deductible? 

Yes, it is, if you qualify under IRS rules for charitable contributions. The fund is “housed” at the Bluegrass Community Foundation who will serve as the conduit for the 501c3 status. The Foundation will provide the necessary documentation for your contribution.

How do I join?

If you are considering becoming a member, please attend one of our upcoming events, read our brochure, or reach out to our Administrator at administrator@100womenlexington.org to learn more!