At the Community Foundation of Howard County, we believe philanthropy is about more than charitable giving – it is about bringing people together to strengthen our community, respond to evolving needs, and create lasting impact. Our 2025 CFHC Annual Report reflects a year of generosity, connection, and momentum across Howard County. Together with our donors,…
CFHC’s Spring Party 2026: Where Community Blooms and Generosity Grows
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…
Spring Momentum: Connection, Community & What’s Ahead
Spring is a season of renewal – and we’re seeing that energy not only in the beautiful blooms across Howard County, but also throughout our work and in the connections we’re building across our community. Our team has been out in the community listening, learning, and strengthening relationships with donors, nonprofit partners, and neighbors. We’ve…
Women Moving Philanthropy Forward: Reflections from EmpowerHER 2026
By Melissa Curtin, CFHC President & CEO It was an honor to participate in the Association of Fundraising Professionals Maryland Chapter’s EmpowerHER 2026 last week alongside an inspiring group of women leaders. I was proud to join fellow panelists Jana Sharp (Sharp Insight, LLC), Elise Krikau (Maryland Food Bank), and Chelsea Brown (The Black Mill),…
Why 2026 Is Different: Four Tax-Time Reminders for Your Giving
By Dan Flynn – Director, Development & External RelationsCommunity Foundation of Howard County Tax season is here – and this year, philanthropic planning deserves a closer look. Several important federal tax law changes take effect on January 1, 2026, and they may influence how – and when – you structure your giving. Whether you already…
Community Foundation of Howard County Welcomes Three New Trustees
January 8, 2026 – The Community Foundation of Howard County (CFHC) is pleased to announce the appointment of three new members to its Board of Trustees: Ahmad Hachicho, Dr. Danielle Patrice Hilliard and Rebecca Rothey. Together, they bring deep expertise in philanthropy, community leadership, engineering and technology, and nonprofit advancement that will strengthen CFHC’s mission…
Welcome to a New Year of Philanthropy, Partnership & Possibility
As we welcome a new year in Howard County, I am filled with gratitude for the generosity, compassion, and community spirit that continue to define our donors, partners, and neighbors. Last year, we witnessed countless examples of what happens when people come together to care for one another – from supporting vital nonprofit services, to…
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…
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…