The Women's Fund El Dorado was established with the vision and hard work of three determined women — Katy Peek, Madeleine Tammi and Stephanie Kresse. Each hoped to inspire and educate women and girls on the western slope of El Dorado County to become leaders in local philanthropy through the impact of collective giving.

Madeleine Tammi, past chair of the Women's Fund, explains, "The idea of a local women's fund appeals to so many people. We keep the process of membership simple, and the annual donation is affordable for most women."

Each Women's Fund member commits to giving $200 a year. Those who donate $1,000 or more become Pioneer Fund Members and are recognized for their additional support. Through a simple grant making process, the annual proceeds of Fund membership offer significant financial support to organizations dedicated to addressing pressing issues facing the El Dorado County community.

"Often, when you donate to a charity or foundation, you as a donor have no say where the money goes," says Katy Peek, Fund co-chair. "Our members are surveyed annually to identify on which local areas of need we should focus our grant making dollars. Each member gets one vote to decide where the money will be granted. In addition, our members are educated in community needs by an Educational Committee that provides the membership with information so that each dollar given is an educated dollar."

"Our hope is that there will be a domino effect as people join the Women's Fund," says Maureen Carter, membership chair. "One person joins and then encourages another and then they encourage someone else to join."

So far, that effect is working well. As of February 2010, 290 women have joined The Women's Fund El Dorado. Over $200,000 has been raised in just two years.

"I'm honored and grateful that I could be a founding member," says Stephanie Kresse. "Helping to start this Fund was a dream of mine for more than 10 years. Thank you to all the members who have helped make this dream a reality."

If you have any questions or would like more information about becoming a member of The Women's Fund El Dorado, please contact us by e-mail at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or call us at 530-622-5621.

Women's Fund El Dorado
P.O. Box 1388
3097 Cedar Ravine
Placerville, California 95667