MENDOCINO CO., 5/9/26 — The seventh 100 Women Strong Mendocino Coast event raised $26,000 for local nonprofits in mid-April. The next event, for inland nonprofits, is coming later this month on May 21.
100 Women Strong is a community-led philanthropy effort that brings more than 100 women together, along with loved ones of all genders, who contribute $100 each and gather for an event where leaders of three local nonprofits present their missions and needs. Attendees vote to decide which organization gets the primary award, and any additional funds raised are split between the other two nonprofits. All funds raised go to the nonprofits.
At the last event, Mendocino Coast Hospitality Center took home the big prize of $13,000. Mendocino Coast Film Festival and Pacific Textile Arts each took home $6,500. The contenders for the May 21 event are MCAVHN Care and Prevention Network, Long Valley Health Center and Medium Art Center.
The Community Foundation of Mendocino helps with the administrative work, as well as intake and distribution of funds, and the events are entirely volunteer-driven.
There are four events every year, two inland and two coastal, in the spring and fall. The next event is at 5:30 p.m. May 21 at the new Frey Vineyards building at 11700 West Rd, Redwood Valley.
All are welcome to participate. There is no need to contribute to attend, but a $100 donation is required to vote on which organization gets the prize money.
Contributions can be made ahead of time by mailing a check to the Community Foundation of Mendocino with “100 Women Strong” in the memo or by bringing a check or cash to the event.