Celebrating Community Strength: The Impact of 100+ Women Who Care Pittsburgh
- Frances in the Burgh
- Aug 29, 2024
- 3 min read
Last week was truly amazing—I had the chance to connect with Jess Lichvar, a key figure in 100+ Women Who Care Pittsburgh. Meeting Jess felt like reuniting with an old friend. Her warmth, enthusiasm, and infectious energy left a lasting and profound impression on me.
As we chatted, I was deeply inspired by Jess's unwavering commitment to making a genuine difference in our community. Her passion goes beyond mere charity; it’s about creating real, lasting change. The efforts of 100+ Women Who Care Pittsburgh are a testament to how one person, and a group like this, can profoundly impact our city.
A Community Rooted in Generosity
In celebration of the 10th anniversary of 100+ Women Who Care Pittsburgh, it’s important to recognize the visionaries behind this impactful organization: Brandi Phillips and Kim Patterson. A decade ago, Kim Patterson, then a social worker deeply immersed in the nonprofit world, was inspired by the power of collective giving. She realized that pooling $100 contributions from a group could make a significant difference for local charities. This idea took root, and with Brandi Phillips, they launched this remarkable group.
Every quarter, members gather to select a local nonprofit organization to support. Each member commits to a donation of $100 (or $35 for members under 35). What’s unique about this model is that every penny goes directly to the chosen charity—no overhead, no administrative fees—just pure generosity and a steadfast commitment to community.
Over the years, 100+ Women Who Care has raised substantial funds for various local causes, proving the tremendous difference collective effort can make. Here’s a glimpse of their recent impactful donations:
April 23, 2024: Refuge for Women received $19,876, significantly boosted by a $5,000 matching gift from the Richard M. Schulze Family Foundation.
January 23, 2024: Mobile Thriving Respite at Point Park University was awarded $20,162, with a matching $5,000 from the same foundation.
October 24, 2023: Kids Voice was gifted $20,241, benefiting from another $5,000 match.
Impact That Resonates Throughout Our City
The influence of 100+ Women Who Care Pittsburgh extends far beyond these impressive figures. Their support spans a wide range of local causes, reflecting a profound understanding of the community’s needs:
Safe Moves for Seniors, awarded $20,211 in July 2023, focuses on creating safer living conditions for our elderly residents, helping them live with dignity and security.
Off the Floor Pittsburgh, granted $20,161 in April 2023, provides essential furniture and household goods to families transitioning out of homelessness or crisis.
When She Thrives, which received $16,003 in January 2023, empowers single mothers through education and professional development, helping them build stronger futures for themselves and their families.
The collaborative spirit of 100+ Women Who Care Pittsburgh, enhanced by partnerships with foundations like the Richard M. Schulze Family Foundation, underscores the power of collective action. This synergy is at the heart of their mission—combining resources, passion, and community spirit to effect meaningful change. Each year, eligible groups can apply for the Richard M. Schulze grant, which offers a 50% match up to $5,000. Over the years, they have consistently secured the full $5,000 grant for their chosen charity.
A Vision for the Future
Looking ahead, 100+ Women Who Care Pittsburgh is dedicated to amplifying their impact even further. With a goal to expand their membership to 200 by the end of the year, the organization is focused on rallying even more support for the non-profits that make our city vibrant and compassionate. This ambitious goal is within reach, thanks to the dedication of their current members and the unyielding spirit of our community.
Join the Movement
Every member, every dollar, every vote contributes to a chain reaction of positive transformation. If you wish to contribute to something greater than yourself and create a tangible impact in our community, think about joining 100+ Women Who Care Pittsburgh. Together, we can continue to effect change—one meeting, one vote, and one act of generosity at a time.
Follow 100+ Women Who Care Pittsburgh on their socials to stay updated and learn how you can join the movement:
Let’s come together to construct a brighter, more optimistic Pittsburgh for all!
Comentários