In this season of giving thanks, we asked several of our WIF members to tell us what they're grateful for. President Carolyn Meade focused on WIF, but we asked our other members to think more broadly about the community:

From WIF President Carolyn Meade:  

I am thankful for:   

Our 400+ women, whose membership is a testament to their willingness to put their hearts and their pocketbooks behind Charlotte, and to do so without politics or fanfare, year in and year out.

The more than 150 women active on our committees and task forces this year.  They are this organization's engine; they have taken on more in 2014 than ever before; and we are on a roll.

The talented members of our Boards of Directors and Advisors, whose thoughtful leadership never fails to inspire and who are willing to make tough decisions to ensure our success.

Debra Wideman, our program assistant, whose dedication in the midst of change has helped ensure a seamless transition.

Jessica Lehmann, our new Operations Manager, whose experience, talent and enthusiasm we've just welcomed into Women's Impact Fund.  We have a very bright future with her on board.

Mary Gallivan, our incoming chair, who shapes our voice, tackles the nitty-gritty and provides me with perspective and advice.  Women's Impact Fund is a second career and one she drives with grace and humor.

My husband, Chris, who introduced me to Women's Impact Fund 10 years ago and now lives it every day!

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WIF in the news!      

Mecklenburg County parks officials recently opened the first of 15 planned outdoor gyms as part of a national program of the Trust for Public Land, a group that creates parks and protects outdoor space.

The first Fitness Zone was installed at the Bette Rae Thomas Recreation Center on Tuckaseegee Road in northwest Charlotte. TPL hopes to install the durable, weather-resistant workout equipment at 14 more county parks and recreation center. A WIF grant helped launch this project.

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You and your family can help with this WIF project         

Trees Charlotte's community tree planting season is off to a great start, says Dave Cable.  "We held a wonderful event recently at Ranson IB Middle School in partnership with Project LIFT and Knight Foundation.  Previously, we held two TreeStores in two neighborhoods.  So far we have planted 540 trees this season.  The community engagement and support has been strong."

    

Three upcoming community events are ear-marked as WIF supported events - Oakbrooke, Madison Park / Sinclair, and Garinger High School.  The highlight of these, and the event requiring the most volunteer support, is Garinger HS on December 6.   

Any members of the WIF family are welcome, and Trees Charlotte would love the help, but you must register TODAY (Nov. 21st).

      

Go to www.TreesCharlotte.org and register to volunteer via the community calendar (link in the lower left corner of the home page).