We launched our 2nd Year of ninety-nine girlfriends!!

“How would you describe your role in strengthening community”, asked Chris Grumm, to a room full of 180+ women enjoying good food and drink and company Wednesday evening April 19th. “Are you an organizer, caregiver, checkwriter, researcher, rabble rouser, fundraiser, witness, leader, speaker?”

Chris’ question set off our evening of thinking about collective giving and community engagement. Guests heard from MRG Foundation’s Roberta Phillip-Robbins about how women get things done, and got tips from Impact Austin’s Rebecca Powers about how to guide growth of our giving circle.  We were treated to a passionate tribute by Desi Casanova, a student in the PDX Bridge Project.  Desi,  Barbara Hilyer and Nick Mathern gave us an update on the accomplishments of our first Impact Award grantee partner in their first quarter of this year.

The 2017 Launch was held at The University Club, a formerly-all male social club that is now led by a female Board Chair and is building a strong group of women members and board members. Our presence at The University Club was a signal that times are changing.

Ably led by emcee Deborah Kane, the program moved quickly and guests had opportunities to talk together about community engagement, learn more about the ninety-nine girlfriends activities for 2017, and appreciate the can-do spirit of the group assembled. Special thanks to Manisha Thakor, Pip Denhart and the Executive Committee for sharing the stage with Deborah.  And special thanks to Tracy, Jinx and their volunteer crew for making this event such an energizing experience for all. Twenty-two members signed on that night, and we are moving forward with speed to our goal of 215 members in 2017.

Can we get to 215 members by May 15th?! We think we can if everyone pitches in and invites a friend, mother, daughter, partner or sister. Then we will have $215,000 to distribute. This will mean we can make TWO $100,000 grants and three finalists grants of $5,000 each. We are so darn close! Help us get there. Refer your friends to our Membership Coordinator, Jinx at jxfaulkner@gmail.com.