February 19, 2026 – The Community Foundation of Howard County was proud to be represented at the recent Philanos PowerUP! Texas National Conference in Austin – a national gathering of collective giving leaders and philanthropic innovators from across the country.
CFHC was represented by Buffy Beaudoin-Schwartz, Senior Advisor for Philanthropy & Communications, and Barb Van Winkle, both members of the Philanos Board of Directors and leaders within the Women’s Giving Circle of Howard County. Notably, both Buffy and Barb previously served on the CFHC Board of Trustees – reflecting the depth of philanthropic leadership rooted within our community.
Buffy also served as a panelist during the conference, leading a discussion on strategic communications in challenging times and the importance of clarity, courage, and consistency in philanthropic leadership.
“When community foundations and giving circles work together, philanthropy becomes more inclusive, more collaborative, and more responsive to local needs.” said Buffy. “These national conversations help us bring stronger ideas and deeper partnerships back to Howard County.”
A highlight of the gathering was the Lunch Plenary, Community Foundations and Giving Circles: Imagine the Impact!, which explored the evolving role of community foundations in supporting, incubating, and partnering with giving circles. As the home of both the Women’s Giving Circle and the Black Philanthropy Circle, CFHC sits at the intersection of community foundation leadership and the collective giving movement.
The conference provided valuable opportunities to engage with giving circle leaders and community foundation peers from across the country. These national connections strengthen our thinking, expand our partnerships, and allow us to bring fresh ideas and proven practices back to Howard County.
“Community foundations are uniquely positioned to strengthen collective giving in their regions” said Melissa Curtin, President & CEO of the CFHC. “By partnering with giving circles and engaging donors in new ways, we expand who participates in philanthropy and how impact is achieved – CFHC is proud to be part of this national movement.”
Collective giving continues to move millions of dollars into communities nationwide – broadening participation in philanthropy and expanding leadership and access. CFHC remains committed to harnessing that collective power to strengthen impact here at home.