Member Spotlight on Tever Nickerson

A few years ago I read about community giving circles and was impressed with how much impact a collective effort and mission can make. I never felt I would make much of a difference with small individual gifts so the concept was appealing to reach significantly wider and further. The idea of collective giving motivated me to see if there were any local opportunities, and thanks to Google I found ninety-nine girlfriends! I was thrilled to learn there was an established, engaged community that honestly "makes it so easy." Easy to give, easy to be involved, and easy to make a difference! I became a member in 2024 and am now going into my third year.

I came to the organization not knowing a soul, but decided to jump right in by signing up to read letters of interest and joining a grant review team. This was no small undertaking, but I felt immediately welcomed and supported and never felt I was out of place. Being a part of the grant review process in my first year was such a wonderful introduction to the work of our group. It's refreshing to be a part of something that genuinely embraces collaboration and community learning. I've stayed involved with the grant review work, even leading a team last year, and look forward to being a part of the process again this year.

In a former life, I worked in fundraising and nonprofit development for arts organizations. My experience left me with a profound appreciation for the need and impact of charitable giving. After the birth of my second daughter (I have two amazing daughters, 22 years and 26 years old), I decided to make a career change. I now work as a licensed mental health counselor running a small group practice. While so much of my time is immersed with the issues surrounding mental health, it's enlightening to return to learning about other areas of community interest and to feel a level of involvement again.

I'm truly honored to be a part of this organization. When I sat down to write my profile, I scrolled through the member directory listings and prior member spotlights and was blown away by the amount of knowledge, expertise, and wisdom brought together in our shared effort. It's humbling and motivating, so thank you! I'd also like to give a special shout out to the leadership team for the amazing structure and guidance they provide for members. Communication is on point, meetings start and end on time - it's very much appreciated to have our time so highly valued. 

Member Spotlight on Margie Sunderland

Joining a women’s collective giving organization felt like a natural extension of the values that have guided my life for many years. As a medical oncologist, I spent my career in service to others, and that commitment didn't end when I retired in 2022. I continue to feel a deep responsibility to contribute in meaningful ways, and ninety-nine girlfriends offers an opportunity to do that in partnership with others who share a similar spirit of generosity and purpose. On my return to Portland in 2017, Kathy Masarie (I met her the first day of medical school!) called to invite me to join and I've been a part of ninety-nine girlfriends since year two!

I am especially drawn to the idea of collective giving because it reflects something I have long believed: we are stronger and more effective when we work together. Individual contributions matter, but there is something powerful about women joining their resources, judgment, and compassion to create a larger impact. I value the thoughtful and intentional way this organization supports communities and addresses real needs. 

On a more personal level, I grew up with many sisters, so being in the company of women has always felt both natural and energizing to me. I am comfortable in women-centered spaces and appreciate the warmth, candor, humor, and strength that often emerge in them. There is a special sense of connection that comes from women gathering not only for friendship, but for shared purpose. 

I have participated as a volunteer in many ways, from being a greeter, to helping with initial grant screening, and organizing some social gatherings. I haven't participated on a grant review team (which I understand is incredibly rewarding) but my frequent travels often prevent regular scheduling. I'm currently in the "go go" phase of retirement (not the "slow go" or "no go") as my father taught me. He lived with me for the last three years of his nearly 100 years of life; that was a special privilege.

I live in Troutdale on the far east side of Multnomah County (only a quick drive to Multnomah Falls and within two miles of three siblings!) so I also focus my charitable interests on the nonprofits in this area, including SnowCap Community Services, Birch Community Gardens, Smith Memorial Presbyterian Church food bank, and the medical foundation at Mt. Hood Legacy Hospital. Interestingly, these organizations all tend to have their major fundraising galas in the spring so my family teases me about my "charity dinners" and my love of silent and live auctions! 

Member Spotlight on Maila Davenport

My family friend Karen Fettig was a Girlfriend. Sadly, she died of cancer in 2024. We raised our children at the same time and were at gatherings together every year. She joked that my daughter was a fun surrogate for her since she was a mom of all boys! At her memorial service, they announced that donations in her honor were welcomed by ninety-nine girlfriends. I did not know about your organization so I immediately researched it. I got so excited reading about a large group of women who also held philanthropic values, and it was so Karen. I joined in memory of beautiful, kind, candid Karen to carry her legacy onward.

In my work life, I helped create new groups and programs; I’ve lived the negotiations, details, and surprises that create a fertile place for the people to stand upon and succeed. I really get it. 

I value being in a community of women. Since I retired, I have not been able to find a group of women to be with, all working for a better world. I have also never been with others who pursue philanthropy. I think the sliding scale donation model at ninety-nine girlfriends is brilliant. Over the years, many women friends have said they wish they could contribute money to causes in a more substantial way but didn’t have enough to make it seem worthwhile. Ninety-nine girlfriends breaks down this financial “gatekeeping” by combining all our resources to make a measurable impact that depends on all of us.

I also enjoy the education arm of the organization (I’m kind of a research nerd). In my first year, I went to all the educational speakers when I was in town. The text The Uprising of Women in Philanthropy gave me a needed history lesson, taught me about the third wave of women’s power as the intersectional feminist movement, and inspires our world with the “re-imagining” of philanthropy. I want to be part of the oomph!

I am grateful to all the foremothers who brought ninety-nine girlfriends into the vital and friendly action-based organization it is today. It was so simple for me to jump in, and the momentum carries us and our community forward. 

I am thankful to Karen Fettig for all she gave to her family, friends, and her part of the world. My life and my children’s lives are better by her presence and love.

Member spotlight on Lori Kellogg

I joined ninety-nine girlfriends after a Girlfriend invited me when she heard me talking about my 15 years of volunteer work with unhoused individuals in the Tigard community. My work background was special education as a speech-language pathologist and administrator. I recognize that one of the factors affecting homelessness stems from different learning styles, as well as poverty, addictions, and general lack of needed support during vulnerable times of life. 

So many things are happening in our world right now that feel out of control. I stay engaged and hopeful by working locally and supporting efforts that help people who are most in need. I also enjoy being connected with like-minded women who are focused on becoming educated and examining ways in which a lasting difference can be made and then doing something about it. 

I am a parent of four adult children and a grandparent to nine amazing grandchildren, some adopted from the foster care system, biracial, and with special needs. One of my children also experiences special needs and lives with her family in a foreign country that provides a strong social services network. 

Social programs designed for the benefit of people of varying backgrounds are an essential component of civilized society. It is up to each of us to build the world we want to live in. Being a Girlfriend is an opportunity to expand the impact of my efforts. Stronger together!

Member spotlight on Melanie Nelson

Hello Girlfriends. I'm from Austin, Minnesota where Hormel makes Spam. YUM! My career began as a Home Economics teacher in Owatonna, Minnesota, where entrepreneurship is a community requirement. I founded Learning ZoneXpress, a mail-order poster business for schools, where our focus was school lunch nutrition education. When Michelle Obama introduced MyPlate in 2011, we sold thousands of posters to 143,000 schools nationwide and enjoyed incredible success!

Because of my team's hard work and success, I had the opportunity to attend Harvard Business School's Owner Managed Program. I graduated in 2015 with classmates from around the world. At 61 years old, I was the oldest student in my class and I had no fear of failing!

In July 2018, I accepted an offer on my business the day after I married Portland author Phillip Margolin. I was happy to start a new life in Oregon, though my heart longs to be closer to my grandchildren. Always a Minnesotan, we are tough and we are singing resistance!

My passion project has been EPES.cl, known as Actionforhealth.org in the USA. My dear friend founded this woman empowerment program in the shantytowns of Santiago, Chile, 43 years ago. I have sponsored many teams to visit and experience EPES. Shantytown women study and lead their communities in violence against women campaigns, nutrition education, Haitian immigrant education, and community gardening. 

Three years ago I also began sponsoring 20 Afghan girls now living safely in Islamabad. My friend and I have found partners in the last year acting as "grandparents" to support these beautiful girls. They do not live on social media so they are innocent and playful, never too cool. 

I am a proud 8-year member of ninety-nine girlfriends…smart and compassionate women. I feel confident giving to the juried nonprofits selected annually. I honor everyone who is a member as we together are building a better community in Portland. Together we are better!

Member Spotlight on Lori Rux

I first heard about ninety-nine girlfriends from a friend. She was a member and invited me to attend the Awards Celebration in 2018 as her guest. I was quite moved by the experience! The venue was festively decorated, refreshments were served, and music was provided by earnest youngsters playing various instruments funded by a ninety-nine girlfriends grant (reminding me of my own clarinet-playing days in grade school). The mood in the room was joyful, friendly, and engaging. I met a lot of bright and welcoming women that evening. I also witnessed the drive, dedication, and impact of Girlfriends pulling together and partnering with local nonprofit organizations to address critical needs in the community. I was drawn in by the passion and accomplishments of the nonprofits who received grants. No time to hesitate, I became a Girlfriend right away.

I soon joined the Membership Committee. My first responsibility was to go to the PO box to pick up membership contribution checks, record them in a newly implemented membership management application, and then send them to the bank for deposit. It was a simple, repetitive task and one I could easily incorporate into my regular routine. I enjoyed learning the names of members and then meeting them at events. I gradually learned more about the committee functions, took on more responsibility, and expanded my role. In 2022, I became co-chair and have enjoyed leading the committee, supporting our members, and shaping our strategies and processes.

Starting in 2026, I have another role: co-chair of the Coordinating Council. This assembly of committee chairs and at-large representatives helps ensure good coordination and communication between the different parts of the organization so we can continue to recruit and retain members, learn collaboratively about our community needs, and make impactful grants in response to those needs. Being a Girlfriend has been a meaningful and rewarding experience. I feel grateful to be a part of ninety-nine girlfriends and look forward to staying involved and contributing to this amazing organization for years to come.

Member Spotlight on Sarah Cleveland

I was introduced to ninety-nine girlfriends by Lisa Davidson around 2018. I was attracted to the opportunity to meet other women in Portland since most of my work was not local. I was also interested in local philanthropy.

I participated in many learning sessions my first year as well as a few socials. Through the socials, I met Barbara O’Hare, who has introduced me to many other wonderful women. In addition, Barbara and an associate led an anti-racism workshop in 2020 that connected me to a group of individuals working to make the world a better place. I have appreciated the education sessions and opportunities to engage locally.

I value how ninety-nine girlfriends has shifted over the last few years, embracing trust-based philanthropy and expanding the membership levels. Now an annual contribution of $300 yields the same “one person one vote” as a donor of $1,000 or more. I also appreciate that members can be as engaged as they’d like to be. There is no harm or shame in being a member and simply voting versus being a more engaged member who is part of a grant review team or committee. Of course, any organization needs a strong critical mass to engage and keep the organization going!

Member Spotlight on Liz Klein

I have looked for ways to support those less fortunate in my community and the world my whole life, following my mother’s example. As a family physician, I started the Providence Milwaukie Family Medicine Clinic in 1999 and the Providence Oregon Family Medicine Residency in 2001. I loved putting on free sports physicals, doing free skin cancer screenings, leading “Smoking Cessation as an Alternative to Suspension” at Clackamas High School, and teaching physicians how to respond to community needs.  Dealing with some health issues, I retired in 2017. Then I studied and became a deacon in the Episcopal Church. I now serve at Grace Memorial Episcopal Church in NE Portland. In retirement, I looked for new ways to get involved and care for my community. My dear friend Linda Smith told me about ninety-nine girlfriends, and it sounded like a great way to donate my time, talent, and money to Portland nonprofits and get to know some wonderful women. I have been a member since 2018. 

Ninety-nine girlfriends has been a great way to learn about, support, and volunteer with nonprofit groups I would not normally be exposed to. I enjoyed working with a wonderful group of women on homelessness in Portland during the pandemic and then presenting our findings to the larger group. I enjoyed being a facilitator for Deconstructing Racism, one of our learning offerings. I will always remember helping with a dinner for the homeless and taking some of my roses for the tables. The children wanted to give their mom a rose, which I definitely encouraged. 

In my free time, I enjoy playing piano and Celtic harp, photography, Pilates, baking and dancing, and hiking with my husband. I have taken up weightlifting to help with my osteoporosis. Ninety-nine girlfriends provides so many opportunities to volunteer and get to know intelligent, creative, and generous women doing great work in our community. I enjoy the fun summer gatherings and the great educational presentations too. Ninety-nine girlfriends is one of my favorite organizations. 

Spolight on Amanda Coven

I moved to Portland from New Jersey in 2018 and absolutely love Oregon. I'm fortunate that through my work, I've been able to travel throughout the state and explore so many of the beautiful spaces and places. I also enjoy traveling outside of Oregon and have been to all seven continents! Since having my daughter in 2023, traveling looks more like visiting different parks and splash pads, but it's all worth it to see her smile and have fun. 

I was introduced to ninety-nine girlfriends by my management coach, Kaye O’Kearny, who shared her own positive experiences with the group and encouraged me to get involved. She saw it as a meaningful way for me to expand my network in Portland while deepening my understanding of philanthropy. Coming from a background rooted in nonprofit program work, I was drawn to the opportunity to learn more about development and gain firsthand experience from the funder perspective. 

I joined ninety-nine girlfriends this past spring, so I’m still very new to the group, but I’ve already felt a strong sense of connection. I participated on a grant review team and really enjoyed the experience—it was inspiring to meet such thoughtful women from all walks of life and to hear their diverse perspectives on the incredible organizations being considered. What keeps me connected is the opportunity to build relationships with people who care deeply about our community. The concept of collective giving is both empowering and a meaningful reminder that we don’t have to take on big challenges alone. I’m also looking forward to the Meet the Finalists watch parties and the Awards Celebration later this year!

Amanda Coven

Member Spotlight on Tammy Wilhoite

I’ve been a Girlfriend for nine years and have volunteered the whole time. From my first gig as a GRT co-lead to my current positions of Coordinating Council chair and Operations chair, I’ve loved every minute. Even during the challenging times, I’ve found joy in working collaboratively and improving my professional skills.

I’ve loved most the culture of learning and continuous improvement, the collaborative leadership structure and willingness to try new things, and the women I’m in community with, who are here to be a force for good. 

Although I’m hopeful that the universe will allow me to remain a Girlfriend for another nine years, I’m helping to mentor and develop new leaders for the future of this amazing collective.

Tammy Wilhoite

Member Spotlight on Jessica Wechter

I returned to Portland in December 2023 after 20 years living on the East Coast for school and work. As part of this transition, I looked for (and continue to seek) different ways to plug into the region, especially alongside people who care about similar issues—whether that’s dismantling barriers to equity and opportunity or helping ensure that Portland and its people thrive. While living in the Washington, D.C. area, I had the privilege of serving as a founding member of a giving circle that launched right before the COVID-19 pandemic. This experience taught valuable lessons in the principles of trust-based philanthropy, like streamlining paperwork, getting to know the issues, and listening to nonprofit and community leaders. I knew I wanted to be part of another place-based and responsive giving circle that shared these values. I also was drawn to ninety-nine girlfriends because of its intergenerational membership and tiered contribution structure that lowers barriers to participation. Philanthropy should be for everyone!

I’ve spent my career in the nonprofit sector, working for both grant-making and grant-seeking organizations, but most of these organizations work nationally, not locally, making it easy to feel disconnected from the region I call home. Ninety-nine girlfriends offers a way to give where I live and learn about nonprofit groups that I might not have known about otherwise…as well as the current context of the communities they serve. I value being part of a group committed to collective action and learning together. As a new member, I also appreciated immediate opportunities to deepen my involvement by serving on a grant review team and attending educational and networking events throughout the year.

My ideal morning starts with a cappuccino and leisurely dog walk. New cafes or trail suggestions are always welcome! Final thought: The organizations that ninety-nine girlfriends funds are the experts at addressing challenges in our region. As members, it’s our job to give flexible funding and other resources and then get out of their way!

Jessica Wechter

Member Spotlight on Pamela Neferkara

My dear friends Angela Patrick and Tammy Wilhoite invited me to join ninety-nine girlfriends. I admire both of them so much, so I knew it was going to be amazing!

The opportunity to affect local nonprofits quickly and significantly is hard to resist. I’ve seen us raise funds, evaluate organizations, and give away those funds in a 12-month cycle and achieve that repeatedly. That means our donations get to work quickly, so the impact can be immediate.

I love the egalitarian nature of our organization. We grow by inviting more women from our community to become involved, not by continually asking existing members to give more. That leads to greater impact, not only in dollars, but in our ability to truly reflect the makeup of our city. That’s our secret sauce!

Pamela Neferkara

Member Spotlight on Diane Rulien

I had never heard of ninety-nine girlfriends until I went to a Christmas open house at an old friend's home. It was there that I met Barbara Long. We were only 2 minutes into our conversation when she brought up the subject of ninety-nine girlfriends. I was intrigued. The idea of an organization of women working together to help the community in these times was very appealing to me. There's so much frustration and helplessness about the current situation that I felt I really needed to have something positive to do. Of course a person can always give money to any number of causes, but it is especially rewarding to be involved in the process of distributing the money so that you know who it goes to and what it accomplishes. 

I retired two years ago and live in a retirement community of 54 people. The residents range in age, the youngest being in his late 60s and the oldest being 98. Most of us are politically aware and active in charities, volunteer organizations, and causes. When I mentioned ninety-nine girlfriends over breakfast, several people here asked me about it and wondered how it works. I look forward to telling them about the process and what it accomplishes. Grassroots organizing and word of mouth between individuals keeps me motivated. I'm excited about feeling useful and productive.

During my working years, I was a waitress, a sanitary engineering aid, a trainee for Pacific Northwest Bell lineman, a Greyhound bus driver, an attorney, and a real estate agent. Between these jobs, I was going to school, married, had a daughter, divorced, had a 31-year relationship, did some traveling, and became interested in 3D photography. My married daughter and grandson live in Portland. Like most parents, I have always hoped I would leave the world a better place for those who came after me. There are so many problems and I want to work with others toward solutions.

Member Spotlight on Emily Borke

2025 is my first year as a member of ninety-nine girlfriends. I’m really looking forward to learning more and participating with this group. I’ve been exploring ways I can expand my impact in our community and a new friend mentioned this group as a great way to connect with other folks looking to do the same. I love the idea of collective giving and sharing resources.  

I am a social worker and my background is in healthcare, grants management, and project planning and implementation. With over 20 years of working with social service organizations in the Portland area, I’m excited to share my knowledge and also learn more about the great work happening in our community! I am especially passionate about public health, housing, and supporting BIPOC and LGBTQ+ communities.

I’m lucky to have lived in Oregon my whole life and I enjoy spending time with my two kiddos and our zoo (two cats and a dog), reading, gardening, hiking, having adventures of all kinds, and trying to improve my pickleball serve.

Member Spotlight on Dezarae Boyd-France

What brought you to ninety-nine girlfriends?

Initially I was going to apply for a grant for our nonprofit; however, we had not been in existence long enough yet. But once I read more about the organization, I realized I was personally interested and wanted to join. The idea that we can work together, pool our funds, and get them to partners to make huge impacts was very appealing to me.

What keeps you engaged/interested/connected?

Meeting new people who are passionate about philanthropy and the amazing work nonprofits are doing to make our community a better place every day. I also participated in the grant review team this year, and it was an incredible experience to be a part of such an intentional and thoughtful process. 

What else would you like to share?

Outside of my busy job as Executive Director of Family SkillBuilders, I love to travel, go wine tasting, and be an avid patron of the arts. Grateful to be a part of this collective giving group!

Member Spotlight on Cece Petrik

What brought you to ninety-nine girlfriends?

I joined ninety-nine girlfriends through an internship program at Portland State University. It ultimately stood out to me because it is an opportunity to be part of a group of strong, driven women working to make a meaningful difference in the community. I really appreciate the community and support that this collective gives, not only to the community through grants but also for the members in providing a safe space to thrive.  I’ve always admired women who come together to uplift others, and ninety-nine girlfriends embodies this in an amazing way. 

What keeps you engaged/interested/connected?

The people in this organization are what keep me engaged, interested, and connected. This organization has many moving parts, and being able to see how everything connects and people communicate with each other to support a collective goal is fascinating. I also love learning about the projects ninety-nine girlfriends supports. Seeing how collective philanthropy can transform lives keeps me excited and connected. It’s incredibly rewarding to be part of a group that values collaboration and uses its resources to address real community needs.

What else would you like to share?

I am currently a public health administration student at Portland State University. I love to dance, swim, and teach CPR classes on campus. For the past couple months of being a Girlfriend, I have learned so much about non-profits and have met really wonderful people. 

Member Spotlight on Ann Dodds

I thought I would be interested in joining based on the theory of ninety-nine girlfriends. But the first event I attended clinched it. A room full of passionate women who get “stuff” done, are eager to learn, and help support amazing organizations was more than enough to excite me. The ability to support the many amazing organizations we have worked with over the years keeps me coming back. Many of these programs are small but mighty and I like knowing we can help make a significant impact on the work they are doing and maybe even help them grow. 

Member Spotlight on Michelle DeVaughn

What brought you to ninety-nine girlfriends?

When the universe tells me something three times, I check it out and, once again, I’m very glad I did. I moved to Portland for my husband’s job in June 2021 and within a month a new acquaintance mentioned ninety-nine girlfriends, but I was still trying to get my feet under me. After a third friend asked me to the Discovery Forum this spring, I attended and was hooked. (Sharing those ninety-nine girlfriends’ business cards really works!)

After 19 years in Minneapolis, I landed without the pulls and tugs of raising children and long-term volunteer commitments. It was a fresh slate: exciting, rudderless and a little lonely. I have enjoyed exploring and learning all the wonders of Portland, Oregon and the PNW. But I’m also ready to learn more about what can and is being done to address some of its issues, and how my donations and skills can be used along with others to help. It seems ninety-nine girlfriends is the perfect onramp for all the above.

I still do some marketing research consulting work, but I’m finding more time to hang with my grandsons, volunteer at an after-school program in St. John’s and investigate ways my church can help relieve the housing shortage. Until now, tennis has been my way to meet friends of all ages across the metro area. I look forward to meeting more through ninety-nine girlfriends!

Michelle with her grandkids

Member Spotlight on Meg Marshall

I joined ninety-nine girlfriends after years of hearing about this great organization. I've been a fundraiser for the better part of two decades and I was intrigued about being on the side of distributing money, rather than raising it. This year, I joined a grant review team and was so inspired by the work being done in our community. What a privilege to be able to support these extraordinary programs.

On a more personal and timely note, my family was recently affected by Hurricane Helene in the Southeast. I have seen how critical it is that communities have thriving, well-resourced non-profits. I have also seen how important it is that individuals know and invest in their neighbors and their communities. Being part of ninety-nine girlfriends has been a rewarding way to give back, connect with incredible people, and focus on uplifting essential organizations in our region.

I live in southeast Portland with my husband, two young daughters (ages 2 & 5), and our cat, Garlic Butters. Some of my favorite things about Portland are the food scene, the way the flowers bloom in the spring after the dark and dreary days, and the proximity to the ocean, Mount Hood, and the Gorge. 

Member Spotlight on Trina Brodsky

Emily chose to spotlight Trina Brodsky in this lovely tribute.

Dr. Trina Brodsky is an amazing member of ninety-nine girlfriends and someone who generously sponsored my membership this year! She’s my partner’s mom (I just call her my mother-in-law or my Portland mom) and a role model. She is a doctor of obstetrics & gynecology who practiced in Hawaii, Kansas, and Oregon for roughly 35 years - all while raising three boys and a house full of pets! She retired in 2019 and has been fully embracing her time without a pager. Trina loves to stay active through daily hikes, yoga, and travel, and recently she has gotten back into golf. As an avid reader, there is not a book she hasn't devoured and she is a part of a monthly book club with women from across the country. She is also an amazing cook/baker who has become known for her homemade galettes that I personally think about often; they are so delicious. During election season, she gets involved by donating her time to phone-banking for the Democratic party and is always staying up to date on politics. You can find her around town at local theater productions, exploring Portland’s many nature trails with her dog Kona, visiting family and friends, laughing at her husband Steve’s plethora of dad jokes, and, of course, staying involved with ninety-nine girlfriends!

Trina is an inspiring woman who approaches life with grace, patience, and a determination that I try to emulate. Something I cherish dearly is spending time with her and listening to her stories and life experiences. I am so fortunate to have her in my life and thankful she sponsored me this year. We will be in attendance at the Awards Celebration on October 29th; come say hi if you see us :)

Trina and Emily