On Face to Face, Geneviève Kyle Lefebvre had the pleasure of sitting down with Larina Bouwman, founder of 100 Women Who Care Tri-Cities BC. This local chapter is part of a global movement that proves generosity doesn’t have to be complicated to be powerful.

Genevieve Kyle-Lefebvre – Local Journalism Initiative

100 Women Who CareToday on Face to Face, we explore how a grassroots initiative is reshaping how we think about philanthropy, one donation at a time. The 100 Women Who Care model is as elegant as it is effective. Women commit to donating $100, meet four times a year, nominate and vote on local charities, and direct all the funds to one chosen organization. It’s community impact that is streamlined, transparent, and direct.

Since launching the Tri-Cities chapter, Bouwman has watched a small idea grow into a meaningful force for good. Though they haven’t yet reached their namesake goal of 100 members, their numbers are growing steadily, and so is their impact. “Every meeting, I’m inspired by the women in the room,” she says. “They’re professionals, mothers, entrepreneurs, people who care deeply about where they live and want to make a difference.” Three charities are nominated and presented at each gathering.

Members listen, discuss, and vote. The winning charity receives the collective donation, sometimes amounting to thousands of dollars. The results are immediate and deeply local, often helping groups that are overlooked by larger funding systems. Beyond the financial support, Bouwman emphasizes the sense of community among members. These women are not just giving; they’re connecting, learning, and growing as leaders in local philanthropy.

The model invites collaboration rather than competition, something Bouwman believes is key to its success. Her advice to others is simple: “Start small, stay consistent, and keep your heart in it. You’ll be amazed what a roomful of people with purpose can do.” At a time when many feel disconnected from traditional forms of giving, 100 Women Who Care Tri-Cities BC offers a refreshingly personal and powerful alternative. It reminds us that we all have something to give, and that together, even $100 can change lives. Tri Cities Community TV is a group of volunteers in the region who are looking to support community video media and independant community news stories and sources.