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…
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Join Us! Mornings With Melissa
January 28, 2026 | 8:30 am Howard County nonprofit leaders are invited to join us on Wednesday, January 28 from 8:30–9:30 a.m. in our home at historic Athol Manor for the inaugural Mornings with Melissa, a relaxed monthly coffee conversation hosted by the Community Foundation of Howard County. After hearing during our fall open houses that nonprofits want…
CFHC Announces 2025 Community Grants
The Community Foundation of Howard County (CFHC), in collaboration with the Columbia Association, is awarding $225,000 to 32 nonprofit organizations in Howard County through our Community Grants Program. Every year, the CFHC has a specific dollar amount available for community grantmaking outside grants made through donor-advised funds. This amount varies by year. This year, the…
At the Heart of Philanthropy: A Message from CFHC President & CEO Melissa Curtin
At the Community Foundation of Howard County’s Annual Dinner & Celebration of Philanthropy, President & CEO Melissa Curtin offered a powerful reflection on what philanthropy truly means for our community. More than a speech, her remarks were an invitation—to pause, to reflect, and to recognize that generosity begins in the human heart and ripples outward…
2025 Annual Dinner & Celebration of Philanthropy Recap
The Community Foundation of Howard County’s (CFHC) Annual Dinner & Celebration of Philanthropy on December 9 was a joyous evening filled with fellowship, inspiring stories, and powerful reminders of the generosity that strengthens our community. The event opened with a lively cocktail reception before guests gathered in the Cameo Ballroom at Turf Valley Resort for…
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…
CFHC Leadership Council: United to Inspire Lifelong Giving Across Howard County
(Pictured above from left to right – Top Row: Scot Millen, Bruce Harvey, Melissa Curtin, Barbara Lawson. Middle Row: Mary Ann Scully, Bob Sheff. Front Row: Malynda Madzel, Mike Davis, Steve Sass.)
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…
CAC Presents Foundation with Inaugural Bauder Community Impact Award
The Community Foundation was honored to accept the inaugural Bauder Community Impact Award at the Community Action Council of Howard County’s (CAC) annual Evening of Impact event held on October 20. The Bauder Community Impact Award is named for longtime CAC Board Member and supporter, Dr. Lillian Bauder. The Bauder Community Impact Award is presented…