Meet Wendy H. Steele
A dedicated philanthropist, passionate entrepreneur, and inspiring speaker, Wendy H. Steele is the author of Invitation to Impact and the founder of Impact100, a nonprofit that streamlined the giving circle model to transform communities worldwide.
A Lifetime of Giving
From a young age, Wendy’s family instilled in her the value of giving back with the intention of leaving the world a little better than she found it. Wendy believes strongly in the power of generosity, and her creation of Impact100 brought a powerful model to the giving circle movement that has since given away more than $140 million to worthy causes throughout the world.
Since the founding of Impact100 in 2001, Wendy has worked tirelessly to share her philanthropy expertise through speaking engagements, volunteer work, and her forthcoming book Invitation to Impact. Recognized by Forbes in 2021 as one of 50 women over 50 who are leading the world in impact, Wendy is a truly inspirational philanthropist and a role model for women everywhere.
Awards & Recognitions
See Wendy’s latest distinctions and achievements
Northwood University Distinguished Women Award
The recipients of this award represent the values Northwood espouses for its own students: commitment to free enterprise, the partnership of arts and business, and the management of global commerce.
America’s Top 25 Philanthropy Speakers
Issued by Philanthropy Media, this award celebrates the best philanthropy speakers that have inspired the charitable giving sector and advanced social innovation.
Kentucky Colonel
The Kentucky Colonel is the most prestigious civilian title of honor bestowed by the Commonwealth of Kentucky, recognizing contributions to the community, state, or nation.
Jefferson Award for Public Service
Considered the Nobel Prize of community service, this award is presented to volunteers who have performed outstanding volunteer service in their communities.
Northwood University Distinguished Women Award
The recipients of this award represent the values Northwood espouses for its own students: commitment to free enterprise, the partnership of arts and business, and the management of global commerce.
SPEAKING
Your Next
Event Speaker
As a speaker, Wendy H. Steele is dynamic, relatable, and ready to inspire action among every member of your audience. Whether you need a keynote address or an inspirational speech, Wendy will transform your event into an unforgettable experience that will energize your organization.
Wendy H. Steele founded Impact100 in 2001 to encourage and expand women’s roles in the field of philanthropy. Since then, the organization’s powerful giving circle model has sparked a movement of collective community transformation, with more than 65 chapters located across the globe.
Since 2001, Impact100’s chapters have collectively put more than $140 million toward improving and transforming their communities.