When people think about philanthropy, they often picture a single act of generosity, perhaps a scholarship awarded, a meal provided, or a program launched. But behind every moment of impact is something deeper: a commitment to community that grows over time. At the Community Foundation of Howard County (CFHC), that commitment takes shape through nearly…
New Charitable Giving Laws for 2026: What Howard County Donors Need to Know
Beginning January 1, 2026, several significant federal tax law changes will reshape how individuals and families support the causes they care about. These updates create new opportunities for many donors—especially retirees and non‑itemizers—while also reinforcing the importance of thoughtful planning. As always, the Community Foundation of Howard County is here to help you navigate these…
Black Philanthropy Circle of Howard County Awards First-Ever Grant to S.T.A.N.D. Mentorship Program
The Black Philanthropy Circle of Howard County (BPCHoCo) has reached an exciting milestone in its mission to strengthen and uplift the African American community in Howard County. At its second annual College Connections & Conversations event, the Circle proudly announced that the S.T.A.N.D. (Stepping Towards a New Destiny) Mentorship Program is the recipient of BPCHoCo’s…
Community Relief Fund “Neighbors in Need” Campaign
The Howard County Community Relief Fund functions as a permanent, flexible philanthropic fund that mobilizes donations, coordinates grants, and supports recovery and resilience during local crises. The fund traces its roots to the July 2016 flash flood in Ellicott City, when intense rainfall caused sudden, destructive flooding that overwhelmed homes and businesses and prompted a…
Winter Growth Earns 2025 Casey and Pebble Willis “Making a Difference” Award
The Community Foundation of Howard County has announced that Winter Growth is the recipient of the 2025 Casey and Pebble Willis “Making a Difference” Award. The award will be presented to Winter Growth at the Foundation’s Annual Dinner & Celebration of Philanthropy on the evening of Tuesday, December 9. The Willis Award celebrates some of…
Celebrating Leadership and Legacy with the Women’s Giving Circle of Howard County
The Community Foundation of Howard County (CFHC) was proud to join the Women’s Giving Circle of Howard County (WGC) at last night’s Leadership & Legacy Happy Hour, where CFHC staff were all present to celebrate the Circle’s ongoing impact and upcoming leadership transition. “The WGC is one of our most dynamic and community-driven funds, and…
Chamber Music Maryland Earns 2025 Jean Moon Legacy Builder Award
Chamber Music Maryland (CMM) has been selected as the Community Foundation of Howard County’s 2025 recipient of the Jean Moon Legacy Builder Award. The award will be presented to Chamber Music Maryland at the Foundation’s Annual Dinner & Celebration of Philanthropy on the evening of Tuesday, December 9. The event will be held in the…
Smart Giving Strategies: Year-End Gifts
Your generosity continues to fuel transformative projects across Howard County. As the heart of philanthropy in Howard County, our team is always here to help you meet your philanthropic goals, maximize your impact, and get the most tax benefits from your giving. Here are some ideas for your year-end giving: To help you make the…
ANNOUNCEMENTS BOARD & STAFF DONOR STORIES FUNDS IMPACT MESSAGE from the PRESIDENT & CEO WHAT'S HAPPENING
2024 CFHoCo Annual Report
As the philanthropic hub of Howard County, the Community Foundation plays a vital role in supporting the nonprofit sector and making a difference in the lives of countless individuals and families. Each year, the Annual Report serves as a snapshot and highlights the incredible work being done by our donors, nonprofit grantees and community partners.…
Howard Legacy Society
Howard Legacy Society members leave a legacy of giving after they are gone by entrusting us with a planned gift to any endowed fund at the Community Foundation of Howard County. HLS members are visionaries because they know that after their lifetime, Howard County will benefit from their continued support. Whether their passion is for…