The mission of the Mary M. Jalonick Women’s Philanthropy Institute (WPI) is to educate, inspire, and empower women as donors. It helps them become more confident and engaged at every stage of their philanthropic journey.
Each year, members gather for education led by expert staff of The Dallas Foundation, presentations from regional thought leaders, and site visits to local nonprofits, building skills to evaluate organizations, understand strategic philanthropy, and make informed giving decisions.
At the end of each year, members collectively award a grant through the WPI Fund at The Dallas Foundation, with each member contributing at least $500. Over the past decade, more than 200 women have participated, giving over $36.5 million to the community through their donor-advised funds.
$330K+
granted annually to Dallas-area nonprofits
$2.5M+
granted since WPI’s founding
$15.2M
given by WPI members through their DAFs in 2025
70+
nonprofits have received grants through WPI
WPI connects women with community needs—and the nonprofits meeting those needs. Whether you are new to philanthropy or looking to deepen your impact, WPI equips you with the tools, insights, and relationships to give confidently.
Each year, WPI members learn together, invest together, and build lasting connections while making measurable change in our community. Named in honor of Mary M. Jalonick, long-time CEO of The Dallas Foundation, WPI reflects her legacy as a community leader and her belief in what’s possible when women come together to lead, serve, and uplift Dallas.
Members visit four nonprofits each year to learn firsthand about their missions, programs, and impact. These visits also teach members how to assess a nonprofit’s health, from financials to leadership.
These educational events feature speakers on timely topics selected by members. Attendees hear from community experts and thought leaders who bring context and insight to the issues shaping Dallas.
Each year begins with an inspiring kickoff event featuring a remarkable woman philanthropist as special guest, setting the tone for a year of meaningful learning and giving.
At the close of each year, WPI members vote on the organization that will receive the lead grant and select additional grantees.
Ruth Fitzgibbons
Dallas Foundation Fundholder and
Women's Philanthropy Institute Member
To be a part of this dynamic group of women, each member agrees to contribute a minimum of $500 annually to the grant pool for collective giving to our nonprofit grantees.
Please consider becoming a WPI Pacesetter with a contribution of $10,000 or more to help ensure we can continue to grant out as much as possible to our community.
Kim Montez
Senior Director of Gift Planning and Family Philanthropy
Erin Osenbaugh
Manager of Donor Services