On October 9th, Women Leading Philanthropy (WLP) hosted an invigorating gathering of 60
attendees, all coming together for a meaningful evening in support of the EMBRACE program.
The event highlighted WLP’s dedication to empowering women and making a difference in the
lives of those who need it most.
The EMBRACE program is a vital initiative aimed at supporting women with a history of
substance use during pregnancy. EMBRACE stands for Empowering Mothers and Families,
Mentorship, Building Healthy Relationships, Respect, Actively Listening and Learning,
Collaboration, and Engagement. At the heart of the program is a collaborative care approach,
ensuring that mothers receive comprehensive support throughout pregnancy and into the
postpartum period. The ultimate goal is to empower these mothers to be the primary caregivers
for their babies, equipping them with the tools and confidence they need to thrive.
During the evening, a guest speaker moved the audience with personal stories of her own
journey and that of another mother’s experience with EMBRACE. She shared how the program
had been a source of strength and guidance during some of the most difficult moments in their
lives, underscoring the powerful impact of community support.
As part of the fundraising efforts, EMBRACE totes—special bags given to mothers during their
stay in the hospital—were auctioned off. Each tote is filled with approximately $100 worth of
essential items for both mother and baby, including personal hygiene and comfort items, snacks,
things to pass the time in the hospital, and baby necessities like sleepers, sleep sacks, and
soothers.
Looking ahead, WLP is excited to grow its membership and continue selecting impactful causes
to support. The energy and passion shared at events like this are a testament to the power of
collective philanthropy.
Reflecting on the event, WLP member Sara Gerrard shared, “Being part of a group that
empowers women through philanthropy is incredibly rewarding. Events like ‘Connect for a
Cause’ in support of the EMBRACE program not only showcase the collective impact we can
have but also inspire us to strive for even greater change. Together, we’re making a difference,
one initiative at a time.”
With such a strong start, WLP is eager to see what the future holds as they continue to engage
in meaningful causes and strengthen their impact on the community. |