FWG Spotlight: Honoring a Pioneering Volunteer

In celebration of National Volunteer Month, Fairfield County’s Community Foundation’s Fund for Women & Girls’ honors the late Nancy C. Brown – a pioneering woman whose career and dedication to volunteering became a pivotal part in advancing gender and racial equity throughout Fairfield County and beyond. 

Nancy C. Brown (1932 – 2021) was known by many as “The Gentle Giant of Greenwich.” But for anyone who personally knew her, Nancy’s giant legacy extended well beyond the borders of Fairfield County.

In her 88 years of life, Nancy wore many hats. From becoming the first Black woman to head a town department in Greenwich, to helping campaign for Barack Obama, Nancy was always eager to take on a new challenge.

During her 65 years in Greenwich, she served on the Board of the Family Centers of Greenwich; helped found the Urban League of Southwestern Fairfield County; and helped establish the first Affirmative Action Plan for the Town of Greenwich.

In 1998, Nancy joined forces with a small group of pioneering women to start the Fund for Women & Girls at Fairfield County’s Community Foundation (FCCF).

It was through her volunteer role on the FCCF’s Fund for Women & Girls Advisory Council that Nancy was able to carry out her passion for elevating and empowering young girls of color in Fairfield County.

Now, almost 25 years since the Fund for Women & Girls was first established, the support from philanthropists and volunteers like Nancy has grown the Fund into the largest fund for women in New England.

As the Fund for Women & Girls gears up for the return of its in-person annual fundraising Luncheon on April 22, it will recognize Nancy’s legacy of volunteerism and inspire a new generation of volunteers to support their community with their time, talent and treasure.

We celebrate Nancy and all volunteers who generously devote a part of their lives to make a difference in the world.

Nancy’s unwavering commitment to the Fund for Women & Girls and our community is an inspiration to all.