What’s a micro-loan fund?

Let’s find out. 

In 2020, right before COVID-19 transformed communities across the globe, The Wayne County Community Foundation established the NEPA Circle of Aunts and Uncles fund. Inspired by the Circle of Aunts and Uncles that Judy Wicks established in Philadelphia, our very own version of a revolving micro-loan fund was initially supported by donations from multiple individuals and the Villaume Foundation. Our Circle of Aunts and Uncles has been supporting small local businesses ever since. 

The purpose of the Circle of Aunts and Uncles is to create a funding ecosystem so new, small and local businesses can get on their feet. By providing low-interest loans and reinvesting that money back into the fund, as well as through contributions from supporters, the Circle grows to be able to support more businesses. The cycle goes on and on. 

In June 2026, the Wayne County Community Foundation was able to issue, out of repaid dollars, a new loan to Queen of Cups in downtown Hawley, PA. Queen of Cups has been open for just a year this month, and the business has quickly made itself into a cornerstone of Hawley’s downtown, with a lovely vintage shop inside, partnerships with local businesses and nonprofits, and special events throughout the year. 

We’re so excited to see what is in store for this gem of a coffee shop in Hawley and always look forward to stopping in when we have the chance. Be sure to visit if you haven’t already been there; you’ll find it at 318 Main Ave. 

If you’d like to learn more about the NEPA Circle of Aunts and Uncles, or any of the other great things we do in our community, visit www.waynefoundation.org. 

Ryanne Jennings is the president/CEO of The Wayne County Community Foundation.