In less than two years of existence, a local group has raised more than $16,000 for charitable organizations serving Will County.
The group, a local chapter of 100+ Women Who Care, is at present seeking more women who are willing to contribute $100 four times each year.
“Awareness is everything; being able to help in this impactful way is beyond incredible,” said Misty Giordano, a founding member.
Giordano, of Monee, and Lorri Nagle, of Tinley Park, had a desire to put some of their own charitable dollars to work without the trouble of organizing fundraising events. According to Giordano, it was Nagle who suggested creating a local chapter of 100+ Women Who Care.
Since its founding in May 2017, 100+ Women Who Care in Southern Will County have made wishes come true for seven not-profit organizations, according to Nagle.
GiGi’s Playhouse in Tinley Park is the most recent recipient of funds from the group. Diane Husar of GiGi’s can attest to the fact that the women’s organization does indeed make wishes come true.
Husar said the $2,500 GiGi’s received paid for some really cool “word wallpaper” that would not have been possible without the donated funds.
“We have had an ‘ask and you shall receive’ experience’,” Husar said. “And it happened again with the support of this incredible group of women.”
The Southern Will County chapter of 100+ Women Who Care initially came together with 32 members. The women come from a variety of backgrounds and professions.
“It has been a really incredible experience for all of us involved,” Giordano said. “For me, it’s a really amazing way to learn about the nonprofits in our community.”
The group meets four times each year, and at each meeting each member writes out a personal check for $100. Three group members, who have already done their research, make a pitch for where the funds should go.
About an hour later, all members present vote on which charity gets the funds. Past winners have included Handing Hope, Shady Oaks Camp, and Pediatric Oncology Treasure Chest Association, according to Nagle.
To be eligible for funds from the women’s group, recipients must have a non-profit status and be situated in Will County or in some way serve the residents of Will County.
Membership has dipped to about 25. The group is opening its doors to newcomers at its upcoming meeting at 7 p.m. Feb. 12 at Little Joe’s Restaurant in Frankfort. For more information, contact Giordano at misty@loveyourlifewithmisty.com.
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