Continuing a 36-year tradition, WRC recently distributed scholarships for the upcoming winter 2011 semester to five women from our career development programs.

These small scholarships, averaging $350 per award and funded with support from our donors, do more than just help these women with education-related expenses such as  tuition, books, childcare and transportation, they also serve as our vote of confidence in their ability to achieve their career goals.

This semester's awardees are studying radiology, social work, and office administration. WRC extends our congratulations to Denise, Dawn, Paula, Raphael, and Barb for pursuing their educations and their goals to be economically self sufficient.

In Her Words:

"I would like to take this opportunity to thank you for the scholarship you awarded to me. I am exceedingly grateful for all the help you give...without [it] getting through the rough patches would be much more daunting. You are always there to encourage me and knowing that has made this road smoother.  ~Denise

WRC Client with presents she received for her family through our Christmas Adoption program

The Christmas Adoption Program is another WRC tradition.

This year 23 families were "adopted" by individuals and businesses. Donors shopped from a wish list of needs and wants prepared by "their" family, with the goal of providing at least one "need" and one "want" for each member.

As often happens, our shoppers got a little carried away! Not only did they fulfill the needs and wants listed, in many cases they also purchased toys, clothes and household items well beyond the wishes of the family. A heartfelt "thank you" to all the generous donors who gave struggling single moms and their kids a Christmas to remember. You put smiles on their faces and tears in their eyes - and ours!