The Community Foundation of Howard County was proud to welcome nearly 200 donors, nonprofit leaders, fund advisors, business and community leaders, Board of Trustees members, partners, and friends to our 2026 Spring Party on May 14 at the historic Elkridge Furnace Inn.
The evening was a celebration of the relationships, partnerships, and generosity that continue to strengthen Howard County.
Guests enjoyed food, drinks, music, and meaningful conversations while connecting with others who share a commitment to supporting the people and organizations that make our community thrive.
Throughout the evening, we reflected on the progress we’ve made together over the past year and shared exciting plans for the future, including the continued growth of the Fund for Howard County – the Community Foundation’s flexible community grantmaking fund supporting nonprofits across the county.
Last year, the Fund for Howard County awarded $225,000 in grants to local nonprofits through our Community Grants Program, including $125,000 in support from the Columbia Association. This year, we are working toward an ambitious goal of growing the fund to $500,000 to further strengthen the essential and quality-of-life work happening across Howard County every day.
“One of the most meaningful ways people can make an immediate impact in Howard County is by supporting the Fund for Howard County,” said Melissa Curtin, President & CEO of the Community Foundation of Howard County. “It allows us to respond to community needs in real time and provide flexible support to the nonprofit organizations doing essential work every day across our community.”
We were also proud to celebrate our nonprofit partners during the evening’s “I’m a Philanthropist!” grant awards, recognizing the important work organizations throughout our community are doing to improve lives and expand opportunity.
Thank you to our generous sponsors, donors, nonprofit and community partners, Board of Trustees, volunteers, and all who joined us for this special evening.
Your generosity, leadership, and partnership continue to help keep philanthropy at the heart of Howard County – where community blooms and generosity grows.
