Women's Fund Helps Women and Girls Reach for the Stars

The Community Foundation asked women to “Be a Part of it!”, and over 200 women, along with a few supportive men, joined us at the 3^rd Annual Women’s Summit in October. Emcee, Krystal Lamanto, congratulated everyone for the “Change Agent” they had become, working together to bring about a positive impact for women and girls in San Benito County.

Guest speaker, Margaret D’Arrigo, Vice President of Community Development for Taylor Farms, shared her personal journey— how the community gave her strength to overcome tragedy, and how philanthropy has become a big part of her life. “Everyone in this room has different qualities to contribute, and being part of a diverse group is a powerful thing. Find opportunities in your community to get involved—drive that initiative home.” Leading is a conscious effort for Margaret, always action oriented. She is small in stature, but mighty when it comes to philanthropy. It is a big part of who she is.

The evening also celebrated stories of inspiration. Monica, a resident of Sun Street Centers’ Sober Living Environment in Hollister, told her story of being from a family of teachers and how “addiction does not discriminate.” With help from some of the organizations who have received grants from the Women’s Fund, Monica is on the road to recovery, and she is grateful.

The Women’s Fund was established three years ago, and in that time, it has touched the lives of over 400 women and girls who have needed a hand up. In the past three years, grants have been awarded to Chamberlain’s Children Center, Community Solutions, Girls Inc., Junior Achievement, South County Cal-SOAP, Step Forward Foundation, Sun Street Centers, and Youth Alliance.

To date, all the donations made to the Women’s Fund have come from individuals in the community, and this year is no different. At total of $6,027 has been donated since the Women’s Summit, and with a $10,000 match available, there is still time to meet the goal set out for this year. If you would like to make a year-end donation, a link is available here.

Before departing, those in attendance at the Women’s Summit were reminded of the following quote by activist Harriet Tubman, “Every great dream begins with a dreamer. Always remember, you have within you the strength, the patience, and the passion to reach for the stars to change the world.” The Women’s Fund is helping women and girls in San Benito County to reach for those stars.