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
Member Spotlight on Jane Ullman
What brought you to ninety-nine girlfriends?
One of the founders of ninety-nine girlfriends invited me several years ago, and I became a member based on my respect for her and her commitment to our region. I figured I'd try it for a year and then probably drop out. Ha! I was so impressed with the nonprofits we supported and the group's rigor and thoughtfulness that now I expect to be a member forever.
What keeps you engaged/interested/connected?
Impact – ninety-nine girlfriends makes it easy for me to donate to local organizations that have deeply positive impacts on our community. I want to contribute locally, but I couldn't possibly identify and vet all the amazing organizations we support. Ninety-nine girlfriends does the heavy lifting and I get to tag along.
Flexibility – If I want to participate in social events or educational sessions or reviewing grant applications, I can. But I don't have to. There's no pressure, but there's lots of opportunity.
Women – The women I've met through ninety-nine girlfriends are smart and engaging and have a wide range of experiences. In person or virtually, it's been delightful to meet women I would not otherwise have met through my regular professional and social channels.
Spotlight on Melaura Wittemyer
I joined ninety-nine girlfriends when a friend, whom I greatly admire, invited me to a World Cafe to learn about the mission.
I was, and continue to be, inspired by the concept of giving back to your local community. The power of collective giving is so evident in ninety-nine girlfriends’ impact.
I really value learning about local non-profits I would otherwise not have exposure to. I am committed to reform of our justice system, and so appreciate being introduced to the non-profit groups that provide bridges back to the community with job training for women released from prison.
I am impressed with how ninety-nine girlfriends has evolved over the years - such as the recent expansion to a wider member base - offering different contribution levels. The commitment of member volunteers in governance, administration, grant preparation, and ongoing support to grant recipients, etc., is amazing. I, unfortunately, am not able to donate my time, but certainly value those who do.
Thank you for the leadership, innovation and inspiration ninety-nine girlfriends provides to so many. You are all truly remarkable.
Cheers!
MEMBER SPOTLIGHT ON HEATHER HARDY
What brought you to ninety-nine girlfriends?
Girlfriends brought me. I've been involved with various Portland nonprofits for years as an employee, board member or volunteer. Four years ago, I was looking for a thoughtful way to contribute to my community even though I didn't have a lot of time to put into volunteering at the time. Girlfriends of mine had been part of ninety-nine girlfriends and recommended I take a look. I liked what I saw.
What keeps you engaged/interested/connected?
I've stayed connected because I respect the thoughtful approach ninety-nine girlfriends takes to philanthropy--streamlining processes and reporting, and allowing operating grants to make our funds as effective as possible within the organizations that receive them. We focus on trust-based relationships and a belief that the people closest to the problem will have the best judgment on how to solve the problem. We are continually reflecting on our biases and evolving our thinking to ensure we are making the biggest impact we can in the way the community needs us. I like that.
What else would. you like to share?
I'm finally able to get more involved and am excited to have my mom and daughter as Girlfriends this year so that we can learn from and participate in this group of inspirational women together.
MEMBER SPOTLIGHT ON CHELSEA MCGRAW
Chelsea McGraw
What brought you to ninety-nine girlfriends?
Hi! I am brand new to ninety-nine girlfriends this year! I was introduced to this organization through a women’s event my office has hosted for the last 10 years called Power, Purpose & Passion. Along with a financial education piece (power!) and a keynote speaker (purpose!), we introduced a local non-profit (passion!) at each event. Over the last 10 years we have hosted so many wonderful non-profits and have met many women doing tireless and amazing work for our community. Our event came to an end last year and ninety-nine girlfriends was the last organization to present. Joining the girlfriends seemed to me like a perfect way to continue working with women and help support non-profits in a meaningful way.
What keeps you engaged/interested/connected?
I attended one of the educational events as well as the initial round of grant letter reviews. It was encouraging to see so many women taking time out of their busy lives to learn, connect and put the time in to make a difference. The lunch session on poverty was eye-opening and a good reminder of how much work needs to be done and how much support is needed for the organizations out there trying to create change. The room of women brought many different perspectives to the table and I enjoyed having those conversations through the different lenses.
The grant letter review process was also really interesting, fun and felt like we were really getting a lot done. Everyone I have interacted with at the ninety-nine girlfriends events has been welcoming and friendly. So far it has been a great way to connect and learn.
What else?!
In my line of work as a wealth manager and financial advisor, I deal with high net worth on a daily basis. Taking the time to give back is important to me and also serves as a personal reminder to not get stuck in my own bubble. I believe that if we are in a place in our lives where we can share our time, resources or skills, it is important to use that for good—you never know how it could change the trajectory of someone else’s path in a life changing way.
On a personal note, I love playing tennis in my free time, attending concerts and traveling with my friends and family. My husband and I are big fans of the Oregon State Beavers and can be found at every home football game rooting for orange and black!
MEMBER SPOTLIGHT ON ADRIANA BAER
Adriana Baer
When I first joined ninety-nine girlfriends, I was in a transition from being an arts leader in Portland to creating my own business as a public speaking coach. Then COVID hit and we stopped gathering in person. I realized how much I missed the connections with other Girlfriends and valued the smart conversations this group fosters. I’m so glad to be back!
A highlight for me in past years was the opportunity to volunteer to coach the finalists on their presentations and public speaking skills. Being able to “use my powers for good” is a huge motivator for me! I also absolutely love the cross-generational aspect of this community. We have so much to learn from each other.
I’m now a proud member of the SW Washington contingent, having moved to a small farm in Ridgefield, WA. I live there with my husband and daughter (a Girlfriend in the making). When not growing veggies, I run a public speaking coaching business called Claim Center Stage and offer workshops, team trainings, and one-on-one coaching locally and nationally.
Adriana Baer
MEMBER SPOTLIGHT ON WENDY WRAY
I joined ninety-nine girlfriends in January 2020. As a relatively new Portlander and a nonprofit professional, this seemed like a great way to get involved with organizations in our community. I was also intrigued by the opportunity to learn about philanthropy from the grantmaking side.
I jumped right in by joining a grant review team. Learning about the amazing work going on in our community was a bright spot in that difficult summer. I've since enjoyed roles on the Outreach and Racial Equity Teams, and gotten to know incredible women. Ninety-nine girlfriends has a magical way of matching members with involvement that fits their interests and schedules and appreciating the time you have to invest, whether it's many hours or just a few.
Our work together is as interesting as it is enjoyable, and there are many ways to participate. I feel inspired at every meeting and event by the depth of members' curiosity, creativity and commitment to creating positive change in our community.
As an organization, ninety-nine girlfriends embraces learning, change and self-reflection. This means we listen, welcoming feedback and always growing, as we work with each other and our community partners.
Wendy Wray
MEMBER SPOTLIGHT ON TONG ZHANG
While I was born in China, I grew up in Oregon and consider this place my home. I moved away for a long time after high school, living in Seattle and in Baltimore. In Baltimore the nonprofit I worked for received funding from the Baltimore Women’s Giving Circle. While I was never a member, I was really impacted and impressed by the community. When I came back home in 2015 I started looking for something similar in Oregon and I learned about ninety-nine girlfriends. I wanted to be a member but at the time I wasn’t in a place financially to join due to our priorities of starting a family. Shortly after, I learned about the Fellows Program and joined in 2018 as a Fellow. I’ve been part of the organization ever since.
I’ve been involved in many different projects within the organization, the most long standing of which is as a ballot mistress with the amazing Jude Lieberman. Seeing the votes come in every year is something I’ve appreciated being a part of for a long time. I am also on the Governing Board where we verify the financial health of the organization but also keep an eye out for the strategic vision. I’ve been on many advisory boards and councils before but this is my first time serving on the Governing Board of a philanthropic organization, which has proven to be a really great learning experience for me.
I joined ninety-nine girlfriends to meet women like me who are interested in making an impact in the community. I’ve stayed because I continue to meet women unlike me who continue to grow and challenge my perspectives on how to use philanthropy for meaningful impact. There are too many folks that I’ve met over the years to mention them all but I especially wanted to give credit to two of them, Deborah Edward and Barbara Hilyer. They have always helped me think differently about tackling tough challenges and I am grateful for what I have learned from them and others in the organization.
Tong Zhang
MEMBER SPOTLIGHT ON KIMBER CAVENDISH
I met Tammy Wilhoite for the first time a couple of weeks ago over a lovely cup of coffee. We chatted about our lives and my renewed membership with ninety-nine girlfriends. As the conversation was winding down, she asked how I felt about writing a Member Spotlight. I thought about what I would say to all my new Girlfriends about myself and my renewed desire to join. Here’s what bubbled up for me.
I come from a family of entrepreneurs. My father owned property in Reno and my mother built a bed and breakfast on the central Oregon Coast. During my younger years, I was a professional Can-Can dancer at the Moulin Rouge in Paris. I worked for Club Med teaching snorkeling, I opened an aerobics studio in Eugene in the mid 80’s and yes, I wore leg warmers!!
In my mid-twenties, after a serious running injury, I decided to head back to college to become a physical therapist. When I graduated 7 years later, I moved to Austin for two decades.In the early 90’s, the entrepreneurial seed planted by my parents sprouted. I opened a PT clinic, remodeled a bunch of homes, and had a baby girl. In 2008, I designed, built and operated a boutique hotel in Austin called Kimber Modern.
Being the entrepreneurial type is exhilarating and scary, starting your own business is scary, the fear of failure is super scary, financial ruin even scarier. But there's something that drives you to pursue your ideas, your dreams, your passions…
The humans who have the fighting spirit, the grit, the resilience, the determination and the heart to start their own businesses and risk everything are the people I admire the most beyond measure. The small non-profit organizations that are applying for grants and trying to make a difference in this world, for the better, are my heroes.
By renewing my membership, I pledge to be engaged and involved in the application and voting process and to learn as much as possible about the people and organizations that are applying. An award of $100K is a game changer and such an immense honor.
Additionally, the prospect of meeting many of you, in person, is very exciting to me. Being part of a like-minded women’s giving collective, that’s so impactful and critically important, truly fills my soul.
Kimber Cavendish
MEMBER SPOTLIGHT ON BECKY JACKSON
Becky Jackson
I was introduced to ninety-nine girlfriends by a friend who was a Girlfriend (and remains one), and I found it compelling to think of a women’s grant-making movement in Portland. I then met another friend from the same circle, who was a Girlfriend also, and a volunteer. I did not hesitate any longer and joined in 2018. I now have 6 years of working on the Grant Review Teams, and I love it!
When I joined ninety-nine girlfriends, I wanted to do so with engagement. I considered my skills and interests and landed on grant review from the get-go. I know business and making human resource and financial assessments, so I thought I would have something to offer in the grant review process. What really had meaning for me was to learn about the needs of Portland and the people and programs who were seeking to serve those needs. From there, I found it rewarding to help with the work to find the best places to put our funds to work for impact. In the process I have met many wonderful volunteers and program staff members who are also working for good outcomes for our city.
Being a Girlfriend and working in grant review has given me a deeply meaningful experience in philanthropy. I have met people who are working tirelessly for equity and opportunity. The Girlfriends are all talented and fun to work with, and I have made new friends. The programs we sponsor are grateful, and their communities are rewarded with expanded support. It is a huge win for all involved.
MEMBER SPOTLIGHT ON JACKIE GORDON
I was introduced to ninety-nine girlfriends by Tammy Wilhoite when she had recently become involved with the organization. She was an enthusiastic ambassador and I joined very shortly thereafter. I grew up in a home where my mother, (who had 7 children) found the time to be an active “boots on the ground” volunteer with Meals on Wheels, her church, and Girl Scouts. She also visited nursing homes and seasonal migrant camps to donate clothing and food. She taught us by example and brought us along to help in her efforts. My father ran a business and he was able to practice a level of giving back to the community through his business. He was particularly focused on supporting community and civic events, children’s sports teams and donating to the development of public sports facilities. I’m fortunate to have had such good role models who instilled in me a desire to support nonprofits engaged in important work in our community.
When I joined ninety-nine girlfriends, I was (and still am) in a busy time of my life. I knew that I could not become actively involved, but I wanted to be part of the overall effort. I appreciate the pooling of money for a greater impact and the trust-based philanthropy model that ninety-nine girl friends uses, which includes the thorough vetting process of the grant review teams.
The voting process is an opportunity to learn about the good work of the finalists. I have supported some of those organizations outside of ninety-nine girlfriends.
I am impressed with the volunteers at ninety-nine girlfriends and the amazing organization they have created. I respect that the organization continues to evolve and has embraced equity and inclusion. The member updates keep me informed and educated on all things “ninety-nine”.
I’m proud to be a member and I will continue to spread the good word!
MEMBER SPOTLIGHT ON BETHANY THOMAS
Bethany Thomas
I first heard of ninety-nine girlfriends through my work. I am a co-founder of the local nonprofit, Ecology in Classrooms and Outdoors (ECO), and was a member of the staff for 13 years until I transitioned to a board role. After ECO received a $100,000 ninety-nine girlfriends’ grant in 2019, I was inspired to join. I saw firsthand how impactful the large grant was to our organization and wanted to be a part of providing such an impact to other organizations in our community.
The impact is what most strongly appeals to me about ninety-nine girlfriends. Together we do so much more than we could do as individuals. I'm also grateful for the giving circle that is ninety-nine girlfriends; I appreciate the opportunities to meet others who care deeply about their community.
In addition to ninety-nine girlfriends, I pursue my interest in collective impact as the Founder and Board President of Earth Day Oregon. Earth Day Oregon operates a statewide campaign that directs attention and donations to Oregon-based nonprofits on April 22nd, Earth Day. Earth Day Oregon presents an occasion for businesses and individuals to support the Oregon nonprofits that prioritize the planet year-round. Since 2019, we have helped our partners raise more than $1.2M and have just launched our efforts for Earth Day 2024. If you know of an Oregon nonprofit that helps advance any of the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals, please suggest they check Earth Day Oregon out! They may want to be a partner this coming year.
Outside of my work in the nonprofit world, I am raising three boys (10, 12, and 14), I create music, and I enjoy running, hiking, and eating good food. I am lucky enough to have always called Oregon home, and I am grateful for the opportunities that ninety-nine girlfriends offers to engage, connect, and contribute to my community!
Member Spotlight on Leslie Mullens
I joined ninety-nine girlfriends in May (just under the wire!) after new friends invited me to a riveting event at The Reser. At the time I recall feeling instantly at home - welcomed within a community of like-minded women with a bias for action. The past several months have reinforced and deepened that sense of belonging - being seen, understood, and valued for what I'm able to contribute in this moment. Exactly what we long for from our girlfriends.
Our trust-based collective giving model is a revelation at the forefront of philanthropy. I've so enjoyed this year's selection process, and am ever-grateful to the women who were able to do all of the early legwork and relationship building to deliver an inspiring and powerful slate of contenders for 2023's grants.
It was a privilege to open my home to one of the finalist viewing parties. Tammy & the team made this so easy and fulfilling. The girlfriends divide and conquer, making it so that no one person has to take on too much work, and helping each of us who want to contribute beyond our dollars find ways aligned with our time and talents. I'm so grateful to have found such an evolved group for my soft landing as a Portland newcomer!
After calling Maui my home for 20 years, I made a leap to Portland in 2020 in search of four seasons. Since my arrival, I've been making new friends, laughing my way through the Pickleball Learning Curve at the MAC, and hiking more diverse terrain than I could've imagined.
I'm still building a PNW book of business for my company - I lead a boutique consulting firm that strengthens executive teams and amplifies their impact through strategic planning, team coaching, and leadership development. Our Hawaii clients still take me there often (especially during the Portland winters!), but the plan is to be here more and there less over time.
Community and connection are so important to me - I thrive when I get to lean into the things I love with friends, and I'm definitely looking for more friends here in Portland. Hiking with my pups, exploring new restaurants (they're still ALL new to me!), symphony, music, history, art, wine, local politics and issues...my curiosity is boundless!
I know the Member Spotlight is an introduction of sorts. I hope you'll take it as an invitation, as well. There at least 250 of you I haven't met yet!
Girlfriends! We’d love to spotlight you. Please contact Andra to learn more.
MEMBER SPOTLIGHT
Andrea Duflon (pronounced Ahn-DRAY-uhh)
I joined ninety-nine girlfriends in May of this year. We moved to Portland in 2017 after 45 years in the SF Bay Area. I've wanted to find a philanthropic women's organization here in Portland, and it seems I've found it! In keeping with my decades-long social activism and feminism, I'm also a member of several other organizations working in the arts and the environment.
Recently, I retired from my psychotherapy practice, but I'm still open to doing pro bono work. I'm also a fiber artist, creating three-dimensional sculptures using mostly natural materials. My love of working with natural materials comes from my love of being in nature, hiking and gardening. My husband and I enjoy live music and the arts, and we also travel quite often.
MEMBER SPOTLIGHT
Marcia Danab
What brought you to ninety-nine girlfriends?
I learned about ninety-nine girlfriends from family and friends, and I was impressed with the positive impact of the organization.
What keeps you engaged/interested/connected?
I like learning about the work of nonprofits in our community. I enjoyed working on the environmental grant review team with dedicated, caring women who are now my friends. I am retired from the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality so this team's work was particularly meaningful for me.
I appreciate the thoughtful leadership of ninety-nine girlfriends guiding us on how to respond to the changing needs of the greater Portland community and our Girlfriend community. The summer socials and small-group gatherings are fun and a good way to get to know our members.
What else would you like to share?
I am inspired by the passionate, compassionate women of ninety-nine girlfriends and the organizations we support.
Members! We’d love to spotlight you. Please contact Andra to learn more.
Member Spotlight: Shantara Grace
I’m excited to be a member of ninety-nine girlfriends. I know how much our grants are helping the important missions of local non-profits, and love that I can contribute. Non-profits are doing such important work in our communities. I have become so passionate about them since I started to volunteer.
This year, I began offering sound healing as a volunteer at Hopewell House. Hopewell House offers compassionate, personal, and beautiful end-of-life residential care for people in their last days. I have been offering sound healing meditation concerts and private sessions professionally for more than three decades in many venues. It is truly an honor to bring this work to the dying and all the kind and compassionate volunteers and staff that keep it all happening every day.
Hopewell House re-opened in January 2023 as a non-profit after Legacy Health made the decision to sell it. A group of ambitious visionaries, including many whose loved ones had died at Hopewell House, got together to raise funds to buy the property. Hopewell House relies on donations for daily expenses, and to sponsor residents who don’t have the funds for their stay.
I also donate my services to A Village for One, a non-profit that provides outpatient and residential services, care, and love to youth who have been sex-trafficked or exploited in Oregon. Also founded by a few ambitious visionaries, they recently built a residential home and are continuing to expand services.
All this to say that I understand how precious the grants we give can be to local non-profits, and how crucial their work is. I joined ninety-nine girlfriends to support these important organizations. I’m a new member and don’t know exactly what I’ll be doing in the organization, but I’m so happy to be a
Members! We’d love to spotlight you. Please contact Andra to learn more.
Volunteer Spotlight: April Hasson
What brought you to ninety-nine girlfriends?
I found out about ninety-nine girlfriends while perusing another member's website bio, and ended up going down a rabbithole reading more about the organization. That was back in 2016, and I joined as soon as membership opened in 2017. After years of grant writing in my professional life, it has been exciting being on the grant making side. I joined a Grant Review Team and loved getting to learn about organizations in our area that I'd never heard of before, and about all the great work they do. Plus, being on a Grant Review Team was a fun way to meet fellow members and get to the heart of what ninety-nine girlfriends does, which is getting impactful funds out into the community.
What keeps you engaged/interested/connected?
I've appreciated every ninety-nine girlfriends event I've ever been to. I always find them to be a thoughtful mix of connecting, learning, sharing and becoming more inspired. The member education events are definitely worth checking out, and it's exciting that we've gotten back to some in-person events as well. There are also volunteer opportunities, big and small. While I wasn't able to commit to being on a Grant Review Team last year, I have been able to help with some event planning tasks and other fun things that worked for my schedule.
What else would you like to share?
I've heard from some people that they can't commit time, and that's OK! Being able to leverage our collective giving and voting are key. Inviting friends to join our membership and spreading the word are also really helpful. We are an amazing group of women (as an encompassing term), that is hundreds strong. Use our membership directory to connect with other members. Have coffee or go on a walk with someone new. There's always wisdom to impart and learn, and everyone I've ever connected with has been very friendly!
Members! We’d love to spotlight you. Please contact Andra to learn more.