Women In Networking (WIN) Cleveland celebrates 25 years of local women helping local women. Founded by Barbara Baxter who, “wanted a group where women could be heard, understood and appreciated; a forum where we could grow as individuals and as a group,” the organization continues to help women build connections to network, learn, and thrive personally and professionally. The March anniversary was celebrated with a special luncheon and featured guest speaker, Barbara Daniel, longtime WIN Cleveland member and immediate past president of NAWBO Cleveland, Chapter of the Year.
The board, under the direction of President Yolanda Alber- gottie, has focused on expanding philanthropic endeavors and collaboration. The WIN Cleveland Business Major Scholarship has been expanded to include both undergraduate and gradu- ate students. Last year four recipients were awarded $1,250 scholarships: undergraduate Shondayna Goss, and graduate students, Rhea Shaw, Elizabeth Carroll, and Azia Layman.
WIN Cleveland continues to provide annual in-kind donations to a local non-profit woman-based charity. Last year the charity was Norma Herr. Items were collected throughout the year with a total of over $10,500 in wish list items presented by year’s end.
This year’s charity is The Haven Home. Their ongoing need is for small rolling suitcases and baby diapers size 4 through 6. Donations can be dropped off at the following locations: BuyRite Office Products, 23715 Mercantile Rd, Beachwood 44122, 216.292.7112; Fully Promoted, 3685 Clague Rd, North Olmsted, 44070, 440.716.8899; and ReSet Lounge, 530 E. Washington St, Chagrin Falls, 44022, 440.600.2659. For a complete list of “wish list” items visit www.wincleveland.org.
Several collaborative networking events were hosted with featured presenters from several local women’s networking groups including The Third Tuesday Networking Group, Rocky River, Heidi Hooper presenter; Aurora Women In Networking, Stacie Riffert presenter; and Together Digital, Danielle Pesta presenter. WIN also hosted the second an- nual Celebration and Collaboration event honoring International Women’s Day with PINKK, Chicago, IL, Athena Golianis, founder.
The yearlong celebration culminates with the Annual Event Luncheon, Friday, December 9, 11am to 2pm at the Marriott on Harvard in Warrensville Heights. The keynote speaker is Lori Stevic-Rust, PhD., author of “Put on Your Big Girl Shoes: Stepping into Courage, Resilience and Gratitude.” For tickets, advertising and sponsorship opportunities, visit their website: www.wincleveland.org.
