Last week we came together for the annual Women Give San Diego Holiday Party. It was a festive celebration of the WGSD community as we raised a glass with friends and supported our community partners in San Diego.
We thank Barbara Lee for opening her home and transforming her patio into a bustling holiday bazaar. It was a great opportunity to get ahead on our holiday shopping by purchasing goods made by our grantee partners, including International Rescue Committee, Nile Sisters, Leap to Success, Casa Cornelia, Dreams for Change and United Women of East Africa.
Amidst the shopping, wine sampling, and delicious East African dinner, members also reflected on highlights from the year and shared what Women Give San Diego has meant to them.
Our host Barbara Lee has loved working with women who are actively engaged in the community as well as the diversity of our members.
Amy Harmon has enjoyed seeing our organization continue to grow with fresh energy. She says, ”every event brings so many new faces which makes Women Give feel very alive.” Similarly, Amanda Schulze loves the support that each member gives to each other. “There is a lot of camaraderie between members. It’s so great to see women supporting women.” Paulyne Becerra is proud to be part of an organization that is making an impact in the community.
Jennifer Nation is thankful to have the opportunity to give back. She says,“Women Give is made up of incredible women who are pooling resources to build up women in the community.” Her favorite event was the grants ceremony because it reflected the hard work of the grants team and their diligence in being good stewards of our organization.
This past year we enjoyed powerful and informative events and had the honor of awarding $100,000 to four deserving organizations. While our co-president, Morgan Justice-Black, has enjoyed getting more involved this past year, she is looking forward to an exciting 2016:
“I love that Women Give allows me to meet new people. I cannot wait to further develop relationships with members and share the vision of Women Give San Diego.”