September always feels like a new beginning, whether it is back to school, refocusing at work after summer vacations, or having friends and neighbors returning after their summers in cooler climates. WIP is no exception as we begin our 2022-23 year. And what a special year it is for us as we prepare to celebrate our 20^th Anniversary!

Over the summer I took the opportunity to read a selection of prior newsletters that Elizabeth shared with me. The stories about members, events, and grant recipients were very moving and left me a real sense of pride in the journey this organization has taken. To put in perspective, in our first year of grantmaking we awarded $6,000, at our 10-year mark the amount was $25,000, and last year we awarded $111,050! This most recent grant year included the first distribution from the generous bequest from Dr. Juliann Bluitt Foster of $19,725, announced at the Fall Luncheon. From 2006-22, community organizations received $797,008 in total grants from the WIP Fund and the Dr. Foster Memorial Fund. The addition of this fund will continue to expand the amount we distribute.

You will hear more about our celebration plans as the year progresses, but you can do your part now by recruiting new members and ensuring that you make your 2023 contribution by January, which aligns with the calendar year. We will continue our recruiting and orientation events in order for potential and new members to meet and share “small world” stories. As I have had the opportunity to participate in these events, I am encouraged by the accomplished and motivated women in our community. As these new members become more engaged, we can be confident that WIP is in good hands.

I look forward to seeing you at the luncheon and at other events and activities throughout the year.