Spring is in the air. The tulips are blooming, the birds are chirping, and it's time to celebrate Mother's Day—and that means celebrating the many incredible women in our community. At the Community Foundation of Middlesex County (CFMC), we honor the women who guide us with strength and listen with love. These are the women we all know and treasure who lead with grace, offer wisdom, mentor us, and are quick to lend a helping hand. They truly make a difference in the lives of women and girls today—and every day.

Twenty-two years ago, one group of remarkable women had a dream to build something which would ensure women and girls of all ages and abilities could have a path to self-reliance and achieving their full potential. They rallied their friends and neighbors and established the Sari A. Rosenbaum Fund for Women & Girls at the CFMC. They knew that by pooling their resources and working together, their support of non-profit organizations would be stronger and make a greater impact in our region. Their goal was to provide grants to local non-profits, thus helping women and girls overcome obstacles, realize their dreams, and build a bright future for generations to come.

Thanks to these visionaries and the countless women and men who have joined them over the years, the Sari A. Rosenbaum Fund for Women & Girls at CFMC has awarded grants to local non-profit organizations which have encouraged women and girls to connect with the natural world through hikes and environmental walks. The fund has also provided free access to bilingual parenting resources at local libraries, ensured that economically disadvantaged women have diapers and other essential toiletries for their children or themselves; brought new creative works to the stage and galleries, thereby providing girls and women a space to share their voices through the arts to address issues and concerns in their lives and their community; and so much more.

Whether you are one of the 60 founding women who believe in the power of women helping women right here in Middlesex County, are a donor who continues to support the fund, or one of the dedicated women who serves on the committee, we celebrate you this Mother’s Day. We thank you for helping generations of women and girls live independent and productive lives. Together, with your gifts, your volunteer service, and your commitment to each other, we are able to help fund programs and services that address the most critical issues and needs in Middlesex County.

For 22 years, your collective efforts through the Sari A. Rosenbaum Fund for Women & Girls have helped create a community of empowerment, mentorship, and leadership, ensuring that women and girls continue to have opportunities to succeed and thrive. Thank you for continuing the legacy of never underestimating the power of women! We are honored to help you put your passions into action in Middlesex County.

CFMC is proud to be accredited with Community Foundations National Standards, the nation's highest and most rigorous standard for philanthropic excellence. We are excited to share all the great things that are happening because of good people like you. We invite you to learn more by calling us at 860-347-0025 or visiting us online at MiddlesexCountyCF.org.