A good friend introduced me to ninety-nine girlfriends. She invited me to an event on the subject of housing. The event included a PSU professor who I thought was very interesting. During the event I thought the women in the audience seemed genuinely engaged and interested in this subject and struck me as people I’d like to know better. Leaving the event, I thought I’d like to join and become involved with this group of women raising awareness about important issues that I strongly believe in.

As a member, I’ve met some very lovely people and learned more about the different paths people take, as well as their interest in making our community better. I was also very inspired by the Awards Celebration at the end of last year where the award winners were honored. I loved hearing from the winners themselves and all the great things they had to say about ninety-nine girlfriends. For the first time, I heard the impact of ninety-nine girlfriends from outside the organization and it was heartwarming.

Given everything that’s going on in the world, sometimes it feels there’s nothing I can do to make a difference, but being a part of ninety-nine girlfriends helps me feel like I’m making a difference and that I’m a part of a community that cares and is putting their money where their mouth is.

There is power in numbers and ninety-nine girlfriends is a great example of how when we pull together we can make a difference. I’m proud and happy to be a part of this community of women who build community from the inside out.