
December Greetings + Women. Girls. Central Indiana.
Highlights from a great year at Women's Fund and a video clip from The Power of Women's Philanthropy, plus Women's Fund updates you need to know.
Donor Spotlight: Meet Jen Jansen
Meet Jen Jansen: passionate supporter of Women's Fund, family-oriented philanthropist and helper to those in need in central Indiana and beyond.
There's Still Time to Contribute
Elaine E. Bedel, CFP, shares year-end opportunities to claim charitable deductions that can benefit Women's Fund. Elaine is a Women's Fund Advisory Board Member and Vice Chair.
Welcome OPTIONS Class 13
I was excited to see the names of the women who are a part of OPTIONS Class 13! Congratulations and welcome to Women's Fund.
Billie Jean King is my Shero
The Power of Women's Philanthropy was an incredible event - and Billie Jean King is my new Shero! WOW! What a woman and what an inspiration! Here are just a few of my "take aways" from her presentation.
Site Visit Provided Great Insight into Komen Tissue Bank
Last week's site visit to the Susan G. Komen for the Cure Tissue Bank at the IU Simon Cancer Center provided great insight into the work being done in Indianapolis to help find a cure for breast cancer.
Women. Girls. Central Indiana - November 2012
Here's a look back at the month of November for Women's Fund - everything from grants announcement to OPTIONS celebrations and more.
OPTIONS Year-End Celebration
By Lalaine Smith, DDS, OPTIONS Class 9. From fun giveaways and networking to connecting philanthropy to impact by meeting an OPTIONS Scholarship recipient, Lalaine shares her personal account of the November 15 OPTIONS annual year-end gathering.
New Grants Give More Opportunities to Women and Girls
We are excited to announce we have made grants of $354,413 to benefit 17 organizations in central Indiana. Learn more about the organizations we funded and the important work they are doing in our community.
Do You Have a Button for That?
Angela E. White, CFRE, asks herself and others "Are you pushing the right buttons to build donor loyalty and increase philanthropic capacity?"
Piano Donations Needed for GO Ahead & Play Project
Due to popular response, piano donations are no longer being accepted for GO Ahead & Play, a project led by middle and high school GO: Give Back students.
An Apple a Day Keeps Diabetes, Obesity Away
Garden on the Go®, a mobile produce program, is one way IU Health is fighting obesity and diabetes in central Indiana. IU Health is November 2012 issue sponsor of Women's Fund Focus newsletter.
Women and Girls Win Through Interagency Connections
Through her work, Julie Koegel, Grants Officer for Women's Fund of Central Indiana, knows the value of interagency connections - and how they can benefit women and girls in our community. Read more about the connections among Women's Fund grantees.
A Peek at Perspectives
I'm excited to share information about Perspectives - Women's Fund's new philanthropy education program for women 46 and older. If it's going to be anything like OPTIONS, it's going to be amazing!
Women. Girls. Central Indiana - October 2012
From celebrating the Indiana Fever's championship run to welcoming Billie Jean King in December, here's a look at recent happenings and big announcements from Women's Fund in October.
Talk and Tour of VOA's Theodora House
Until last week, I wasn't familiar with all of the services offered by Volunteers of America - nor was I aware Theodora House even existed. After a talk and a tour, hosted by Women's Fund, I know so much more and I'm doing what I can to help spread the word about this nonprofit.
Smashing Tennis Star and Champion for Equality to Visit Indianapolis
Billie Jean King, legendary tennis star and champion for women and girls, both on and off the court, is visiting Indianapolis December 10, 2012. Will you be there?
Indiana Fever Champions Inspire Girls to Imagine Possibilities
Indiana Fever earn a WNBA title and inspire girls, and countless others in the community, in the process.
Lessons Learned from Young Pakistani Advocate
Jennifer H. Pletcher, Educational Consultant for GO: Give Back - a philanthropy education program, shares her thoughts and lessons learned from an outspoken Pakistani girl.
Meet Maria: A Banker, Volunteer and Native Hoosier
Women's Fund Advisory Board Member, Maria Quintana, believes women are the backbone of the family.
OPTIONS Alumnae and Spouses Impacted by a Visit to The Julian Center
Caroline Gleason Dutkanych, Vice President of Development at Joy's House and OPTIONS Alumna, shares about her recent visit to The Julian Center with fellow OPTIONS Alumnae and their spouses.
Seeds of Hope: Where a Life of Addiction Ends and a Life of Hope Begins
Julie Bowen, Community Volunteer, Advisory Board member and OPTIONS Alumna, writes about her recent visit to Seeds of Hope, a residential recovery home for women facing addictions.
OPTIONS Women Gather at Class Connector
Sarah Barclay, Community Volunteer and OPTIONS Class 11 member, shares about a recent opportunity OPTIONS Alumnae and OPTIONS Class 12 members had to connect with each other. Read more and view photos from the event.
Women's Fund is Beneficiary of Event at 14 Districts - October 5 & 6, 2012
Women's Fund is a charitable beneficiary of an event held October 5 and 6 at 14 Districts in the Indiana Design District, Carmel. Learn more and find out how you can get involved!
Women. Girls. Central Indiana. - September 2012
A monthly update on September happenings at Women's Fund.
Debt Elimination Strategy for Women
By Elaine E. Bedel, CFP®, Bedel Financial Consulting. Elaine shares tips on how women can reduce debt and take control of their financial life. Elaine is Women's Fund Advisory Board Vice-Chair.
Planned Parenthood: There When I Needed Them
Read a post by Jen Rawe, OPTIONS Class 12 member and AdvoCare Independent Distributor, on a recent OPTIONS site visit to the Midtown Center of Planned Parenthood of Indiana. Jen shares her personal perspective and some things you may not know about Planned Parenthood - including education and adoption services.
GO Ahead & Play: Youth are key in this community project of great proportion!
Jennifer H. Pletcher, Educational Consultant for GO: Give Back - a philanthropy education program, talks with three GO participants about their year-long philanthropy project.
Young GO: Give Back Participants Learn About Our Community!
Jennifer H. Pletcher, Educational Consultant for GO: Give Back - a philanthropy education program, explores the idea of community with GO participants and shares some ideas for your young philanthropist.
Female Offenders: Facts and Challenges Faced
Julie Koegel, Grants Officer for Women's Fund of Central Indiana, shares some facts and information about the issues female offenders are faced with as they work to re-enter our communities.
Q&A with Melissa Proffitt Reese
Meet Melissa Proffitt Reese: partner at Ice Miller LLC, community volunteer, Women's Fund Advisory Board member, and a mother of three teenagers who believes we all share in the responsibility of giving back and contributing to our community.
Women. Girls. Central Indiana. - August 2012
A monthly update on August happenings at Women's Fund.
Did You Celebrate Women's Equality Day? You Still Can.
I may have "celebrated" Women's Equality Day at the softball diamond, but I will honor its meaning when I vote. What about you?
Older women donate more than men do to charity, IU report says
Women give more generously - and engage with organizations like Women's Fund. Article written by Barb Berggoetz, The Indianapolis Star.
Update on Our (Semi) Summer of Service
My summer of service with my kids resulted in feeding the homeless, collecting books and stuffed animals, reading and watching TV. Most importantly, it was a great way to build a foundation of service for my kids.
Betty and the Importance of Women Leaving a Legacy
Angela E. White shares some valuable insight and asks important questions after a long-time, $25 per year donor, leaves the largest bequest to date from an alumna.
Q&A with Dan Philpott
Meet Dan Philpott, Women's Fund Advisory Board member, community volunteer, banker, and a father who strives to prepare his children - and others, through Women's Fund outreach programs.
Women and the Olympics
The girl power in these Olympic Games is extremely exciting, inspiring and captivating. I did some searching and am sharing some fun facts about women and the Olympics.
Women Dive, Paddle, Sprint and Kick to New Levels at 2012 Olympics
The Olympics are not only fun to watch, they have great significance for participating athletes - and those aspiring to participate. And through the Olympics, women receive more attention than ever on network television. How would increased coverage of women's sports change our daily viewing habits beyond the Olympics - and serve as an inspiration for young girls?
Sharing Memories and History through StoryCorps
Women's Fund had the opportunity to share a piece of our history and personal moments with StoryCorps, through a recent conversation between Jane Schlegel, Advisory Board Chair 2000-2001, and Jennifer Pope Baker, Executive Director.
Jane Schlegel and Jennifer Pope Baker on Leadership and Women: StoryCorps Interview
Jane Schlegel, 2000-2001 Advisory Board Chair, and Jennifer Pope Baker, Executive Director, share an interview with StoryCorps. Here, they discuss their personal experiences, the historic need for leadership on behalf of women and girls, and the role Women's Fund plays.
Women. Girls. Central Indiana. - July 2012
A monthly update on July happenings at Women's Fund.
Imagining a Nation Where Family Leave is Not Questioned
Family leave is a hotly debated topic, and even moreso in recent months with statements made by prominent executive mothers. Creating and growing policies that work for more families and employers is critical and needs additional attention.
Q&A with Sara Corya
Get to know Sara A. Corya, Women's Fund Advisory Board member, community volunteer, mother, avid traveler, and Sr. Director, Global Medical Affairs, and Development for Eli Lilly and Company.
Dove Recovery House: A Letter from Jill
Read a letter from Jill, a Dove Recovery House client, sharing insight into her path to recovery and self sufficiency.
Dove Recovery House: A Letter from Joyce
Read a letter from Joyce, describing her journey to recovery and self sufficiency with the guidance of Dove Recovery House.
Coburn Place is an Invaluable Safe Haven
Julie Koegel shares reflections after a recent site visit to Women's Fund Grantee Coburn Place.
Title IX Game Wraps Fun and Learning Together for Girls
Photos and highlights from Girls Inc. of Greater Indianapolis program participants leading to the Title IX celebration and game on June 21.
Women. Girls. Central Indiana - June 2012
A monthly update on June happenings in Women's Fund.
Summer: Childhood Memories and Opportunities
Jennifer H. Pletcher, Educational Consultant for GO: Give Back - a philanthropy education program, shares her thoughts and resources to help kids have a meaningful summer.
Are Women Better Investors Than Men?
Elaine E. Bedel, CFP®, shares her thoughts about women and money, focusing on financial planning issues. Today's blog focuses on female investors. Elaine is a Women's Fund Advisory Board Member and Vice-Chair.
Girl Scouts' Camp Dellwood builds courage, confidence and character
Andrea Kleymeyer, OPTIONS 12 member, shares her OPTIONS class' adventures with Girl Scouts of Central Indiana at Camp Dellwood, on the westside of Indianapolis.
Title IX 40th Anniversary Celebration
Celebration of Title IX on June 23 will mark 40 years of advancement for women and girls. Women's Fund is excited to be part of festivities with Indiana Fever before and during their game on Thursday, June 21.
Sex Trafficking: Learning More with the OPTIONS Alumnae Book Club
Lindsey Rabinowitch shares her perspective on the OPTIONS Alumnae book club discussion about the book, Renting Lacy, and sex trafficking guided by Mary Jo Lee of Alternatives Inc.
Encouraging Healthy Bodies and Minds
Have you checked in on the state of your body and mind recently? Learn about some initiatives to help women and girls feel good about themselves, inside and out!
A Summer of Service With My Kids
I'm looking forward to a "summer of service" with my kids. And I'll use an important lesson I've learned from Women's Fund: to think thoughtfully and meaningful about the contributions we want to make to our community.
Women. Girls. Central Indiana. - May 2012
A monthly update on happenings in Women's Fund this May.
Recognizing Older Women in Our Community
May is Older Americans month. Learn about the role older women play in caregiving and the reality of some older women's circumstances.
Becoming an Inspired and Thoughtful Philanthropist through OPTIONS
Check out a guest blog on the "Inspired Philanthropy" OPTIONS class session - written by Mandy Skelton, OPTIONS Class 12 member.
OPTIONS 12 Members and Alumnae Connect at 10-01 Food & Drink
Kelly Noga, OPTIONS Alumna (Class 2), shares how OPTIONS 12 members and OPTIONS Alumnae connected and deepened ties during a social held at 10-01 Food & Drink.
Words That Motivate Women to Give
Angela E. White, CFRE, talks about creating an emotional bond between your cause and women donors.
National Women's Health Week
Nationally, Women’s Health Week is designed to empower women to make their health a top priority. Find out the purpose of the week and simple steps to make healthy changes.
History in the Making: Sixteen Years of Growth and Success
As Women's Fund celebrates our 16th anniversary, I took a look through history and found some key moments since we were founded in 1996. Learn more!
Sweet Sixteen Celebration Gathers Dynamic Group of Leaders
Women's Fund celebrated our "Sweet Sixteen" anniversary with past and current board members. View a few photos of these dynamic community leaders and read their hopes for the next sixteen years of Women's Fund and why Women's Fund is important to them.
Grants - Making a Difference
Grants officer, Julie Koegel, reflects on the grants process while preparing for the June 8 proposal deadline.
OPTIONS Visits the IRT and Experiences The Miracle Worker
written by Theresa Patterson, OPTIONS Class 12, Community Volunteer Members of OPTIONS Class 12 were treated to a behind the scenes look at the IRT, dinner and the miraculous performance of The Miracle Worker. Theresa shares her experience.
Women. Girls. Central Indiana. - April 2012
A monthly update of Women's Fund happenings in April.
Matthew Tully: McIntosh attack on Brooks steps on Women's Fund
Published in The Indianapolis Star, Sunday, April 29, 2012. Written by Matthew Tully.
Serious (and very scary) Stats Shared During Sexual Assault Awareness Month
April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month. After reading some alarming statistics, I think it should be an issue we pay close attention to year-round in order to better protect young girls.
Gaining Some Perspective. My Afternoon in the Indiana Women’s Prison
OPTIONS Class 12 member, Morgan Coleman, shares her perspective of their recent visit to Indiana Women's Prison (IWP). Learn how she gained a different perspective as they walked the grounds and met the moms behind the bars of IWP.
Amelia, 9th Grade GO Participant, Interviews J.A. Lacy
Amelia, 9th grade GO: Give Back participant, interviews J.A. Lacy, Emeritus Board member and President and COO of LDI Ltd.
Today is Equal Pay Day
I'm wearing red today to show that woman are still "in the red." It's a small thing, I know. But my hope is at the very least we can raise awareness about the issue. Rather than complain about the disparity in pay, let’s do something about it. Let’s better understand the issue and find ways to support equal pay.
Women are still underpaid
Published in Indianapolis Business Journal April 16-22, 2012. A Viewpoint piece about Equal Pay Day, April 17, from Jennifer Pope Baker, executive director, Women's Fund.
Internet Safety Concerns for Girls (and Women)
Recent news about the use of internet has me worried for myself, my daughter and my friends. I have a few ideas to help, but welcome more.
Dress for Success ... Imagine for a Moment (Part 2 of 2)
The second of a 2-part series sharing Jen Rawe's perspective on the OPTIONS Class 12 visit to Dress for Success Indianapolis. Jen is Co-Owner, EJ Media and Production, and OPTIONS Class 12 member.
Dress for Success... My Visit in Quotes (Part 1 of 2)
Part 1 of a 2-part series sharing Jen Rawe's perspective on the OPTIONS Class 12 visit to Dress for Success Indianapolis. Jen is Co-Owner, EJ Media and Production, and OPTIONS Class 12 member.
Women. Girls. Central Indiana. - March 2012
Read our monthly update to learn about what OPTIONS and GO participants were up to in March, as well as a tribute to an important philanthropist in central Indiana.
Quotable Quotes
As we come to the close of Women's History Month, enjoy some quotable quotes inspired by women who made - and are making - history.
Special Program Forgives Student Loans
Elaine E. Bedel, CFP®, shares her expertise to help women manage their money. In this post, find out about about a special program that forgives student loans.
Donor Spotlight: Sue Tempero
Get to know Sue Tempero, community volunteer, passionate supporter of women's issues, Rotary member, grandparent of six, and Women's Fund donor.
Girl Power
Several members of OPTIONS, Women's Fund staff and Advisory Board members visited Girls Inc. and participated in a program about bullying and aggression. Read what one participant learned. - Written by Jennifer Berry, OPTIONS 12 Class Member
Enriching the Economic Power of Women
Celebrate International Women's Day and learn more about the power of women!
Hannah, 8th Grade GO Participant, Interviews Martha Lamkin
Hannah, 8th grade GO: Give Back participant, interviews Martha Lamkin, Emeritus Board member and founding mother of Women's Fund.
Women. Girls. Central Indiana. - February Update
Welcome to our monthly update: Women. Girls. Central Indiana., featuring the latest on women and girls from Women's Fund of Central Indiana. I hope you feel better connected to the work of Women's Fund by learning about the incredible impact we are making together for women and girls in our community.
Women. Girls. Central Indiana. - February 2012
From Girl Scouts to Planned Parenthood, planning events and more, here are just a few Women's Fund highlights from February.
Startling Domestic Violence Stats and the Work Being Done to Support Victims
By: Julie K. Koegel, Grants Officer for Women's Fund of Central Indiana
A 100-year history of instilling character
Indianapolis Star: letter to the editor from Jennifer Pope Baker, Executive Director, Women's Fund, regarding Girl Scouts.
The Giving Characteristics of High Net Worth Women: Going beyond the “warm and fuzzy” stereotype of women donors
By: Angela E. White, CFRE Senior Consultant and CEO Johnson, Grossnickle and Associates
Young GO participants talk money
Have you ever wondered what kids ages 6 - 13 are thinking about money? Their questions and comments may surprise you.
Women are the losers among Komen vs. Planned Parenthood battle
Maybe the battle between Komen vs Planned Parenthood is an opportunity for all of us to become more informed, more empowered and more supportive of women’s health issues.
Women. Girls. Central Indiana. - A Monthly Update
Welcome to our first monthly update: Women. Girls. Central Indiana., featuring the latest on women and girls from Women's Fund of Central Indiana. I hope you feel better connected to the work of Women's Fund by learning about the incredible impact we are making together for women and girls in our community.
Indy's Super Cure Success!
Indy's Super Cure collected donations from 700 women last weekend! As a volunteer, I appreciated the experience on multiple levels.
New Indiana law will strengthen penalties against child sex trafficking
Published in The Indianapolis Star, written by Barb Berggoetz. Groups take steps to aid victims of this hidden crime.
Women. Girls. Central Indiana. - January 2012
Welcome to Women. Girls. Central Indiana., a monthly update featuring the latest on women and girls from Women's Fund of Central Indiana.
Childcare Wanted: My Personal Struggle
Finding quality childcare for my infant has proved more difficult than I ever understood, which is why I'm personally glad Women's Fund is tackling this important issue.
Mom, I'm Fat
"Mom, I'm Fat!" Sadly, it's a comment many mom's may hear. In fact, it's an issue I'm facing right now with my 9-year-old. I truly enjoyed reading how this mom responded when faced with the question. It inspired me and made me think differently about being open, honest and silly with my daughter. I hope it inspires others.
Welcome OPTIONS Class 12!
Introducing OPTIONS Class 12
Human Trafficking is Unfortunately Here
Human trafficking is here – you may not see it, but it is happening in our community. Women's Fund is one of several organizations working to raise awareness and prevention of the issue.
Women's Fund of Central Indiana Announces 2012 OPTIONS Class
INDIANAPOLIS – Women’s Fund of Central Indiana announces its OPTIONS Class Twelve for 2012. The OPTIONS program engages women ages 25-45 in meaningful exploration of personal and group philanthropy and the needs of women and girls in our community. Members participate in educational classroom sessions and site visits to women and girl serving organizations in central Indiana. To date, OPTIONS members and alumnae have donated more than half a million dollars to support women and girls in central Indiana.
Women Are on the Up and Up
What is in store for women in 2012? Many challenges are ahead. Will you join Women's Fund in making a difference?
Introducing New 2012 Board Members and Leadership
Women's Fund is proud to introduce the new leadership and members of the Advisory Board.
Women’s Fund of Central Indiana Announces 2012 Officers and New Advisory Board Members
INDIANAPOLIS – Women’s Fund of Central Indiana, the expert resource for issues impacting women and girls in central Indiana, announces new leadership to its 2012 Advisory Board.
Resolve to Get a Checkup
January is Cervical Cancer Awareness Month and after reading some alarming health statistics, I've decided to add getting a checkup to my list of New Year's resolutions.








2012





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