Women's Philanthropic Investment Group (wpig)

For Immediate Release

2012-03-01T07:27:00.000-08:00

WOMEN’S PHILANTHROPIC INVESTMENT GROUP (WPIG) OF SEATTLE ANNOUNCES 2012 CHARITY PARTNER

Local women’s health organization One By One to partner with WPIG

Seattle, WA, February 28, 2012 – Local charitable organization Women’s Philanthropic Investment Group (WPIG) of Seattle has announced their 2012 charity partner. WPIG has chosen local nonprofit organization One By One as the recipient of their fundraising, investment, and volunteer efforts.

Each year, WPIG chooses a local or international charity partner that fits the organization’s mission statement of “helping women and children to move from places of need to self-sufficiency and stability through advocacy, outreach, and charitable giving.”

“One By One is a truly inspiring organization that has had a significant impact on women’s health since 2005,” said Katie Patchin, WPIG president. “Our members are eager to use their talents to support and partner with One By One in 2012.”

“Our last few partner charities have been focused on children, so we’re excited to serve women in 2012, as they are an integral part of our mission,” said Patchin.

One By One focuses on ending obstetric fistula worldwide, and focuses their efforts on prevention, treatment, and reintegration services for women in Africa.

“WPIG’s mission and working style resonates so perfectly with us,” said Heidi Breeze-Harris, co-founder and executive director of One By One. “WPIG has invested in some incredible organizations in the past, impacting women and children right here in the Pacific Northwest. We are honored to be working with WPIG to bring their talents, energy, and philanthropy to the women we serve in Kenya, Tanzania, Niger, and Ethiopia,” she said.

Women’s Philanthropic Investment Group will support One By One this year through volunteer activities, advocacy, fundraising, and an annual benefit in the fall.

About WPIG
The Women’s Philanthropic Investment Group (WPIG) of Seattle is a non-profit, 501(c)(3) approved organization invested in helping women and children move from places of need to self-sufficiency and stability through advocacy, outreach, and charitable giving.
Founded in January 2008 by a group of women who wanted to come together to give back to the community both financially and physically, invest in the future, and educate themselves. WPIG of Seattle is comprised of a talented group of women whose varying careers, education, and interests create a unique blend that fuels a passion for helping others.

About One By One
One By One is a Seattle-based non-profit dedicated to the treatment and prevention of obstetric fistula, a childbirth injury that continues to devastate the lives of women and girls in the developing world. Obstetric fistula is caused by prolonged obstructed labor when women living in poverty are unable to access essential care during childbirth. A horrendous injury that leaves a woman unable to control her urine and/or feces, obstetric fistula has life-shattering consequences. Women are often abandoned by their husbands and become outcasts in their communities, forced to live in shame and isolation.

Fortunately, obstetric fistula is both treatable and preventable. Through increasing awareness and developing, implementing and supporting comprehensive treatment programs and critically important prevention initiatives, One By One is able to alleviate immense suffering and transform the lives of hundreds of women every year.

########

Everyone Gives!

2012-02-24T07:15:00.000-08:00

Dear WPIG Supporter,
Over the next six days, we have an opportunity to make a big difference in the lives of Seattle’s women and children.

The Women’s Philanthropic Investment Group (WPIG) of Seattle has been invited to participate in a worldwide social giving campaign called Everyone Gives.

Until the end of February, people around the world will log on, donate, and encourage their friends and family to do the same, creating a worldwide giving tree.

WPIG is working hard to grow our Everyone Gives tree, and we need your help.

Please take a few minutes to visit Everyone Gives, donate whatever you can, and then spread the word to your family and friends through Facebook, Twitter, and email. Even the $5 that you would spend on today’s coffee, snack, or taxi can make a huge difference when we all work together.

Do you need another reason to give? The charities around the world with the most individual donors will receive bonus money of up to $10,000!

Here are the steps to take in order to donate to WPIG through Everyone Gives:

1. Visit EveryoneGives.org

2. Click “Start Your Tree”

3. Add Women’s Philanthropic Group (WPIG) of Seattle as your preferred charity

4. Make your pledge

5. Tell your friends by using the social media tools provided

6. Click the link that takes you to WPIG’s website to complete your donation

7. Click on either of the “Donate Now” links on our website to make your donation via PayPal.

Start your tree today!

Thank you for all you do to help us support worthwhile charities that benefit the women and children in Seattle who need it the most.

Sincerely,

The Women’s Philanthropic Investment Group of Seattle

WPIG Video!

2012-02-03T23:16:00.000-08:00

Please take a moment to view our new video, created by Valarie Duran of Campfire Creative! Many thanks to Valarie for her hard work on this project. We are excited to present this window into WPIG and the mission we work towards.

WPIG of Seattle 2011 Pigture Perfect from Campfire Creative on Vimeo.

WPIG's New Members!

2011-12-01T16:52:00.000-08:00

A while back you may remember that we mentioned that we were adding 9 new members to our organization. Today, we would like to officially introduce them to you!

Ronke Akanni

Ronke Akanni currently works as a phlebotomist/lab assistant with Group Health where she performs blood draws on patients from newborns to the elderly. She is also completing prerequisites to enter a nursing program in Fall 2012. She hopes to work as a labor and delivery nurse before pursuing a Masters degree in Midwifery. In her free time, Ronke is an avid reader, lover of musical theater, scrapbooker, and amateur party planner. Her past volunteer experience includes being a troop leader and registrar for the Girl Scouts of Western Washington. Ronke is excited to join WPIG and to combine her event planning and social networking skills with her passion for assisting women and children.

Jen Lyons

Jen Lyons has a BA in Media Communications from the University of San Diego. A Portland native, Jen has lived in Seattle for 6 years. She is an entrepreneur who owns a copywriting business and a marketing and events company. She loves to travel, volunteer, spend time with family and friends, speak Spanish, and read.

Whitney Trent

Whitney Trent has a BS in Civil Engineering from the University of Washington, and an MS in Geotechnical Engineering from the University of Texas at Austin. She is a licensed professional engineer in Washington. Whitney currently works as a geotechnical engineer at GeoEngineers, an earth sciences consulting firm. She enjoys traveling, fishing, backpacking, and rafting. As a new member, Whitney is excited to be a part of WPIG and looks forward to becoming an active member in the organization.

Tanya Subcleff

Tanya Subcleff earned a BA in English and Comparative History of Ideas from the University of Washington. In 2009, she received her Masters in Teaching from UW. Since then, she has taught 7th and 8th grade Language Arts and Social Studies, while coaching girls tennis on the side.

Michelle Rosenthal

Michelle Rosenthal graduated from the University of Pennsylvania with a Bachelor of Science in Engineering, majoring in Digital Media Design. She is originally from New Jersey and currently works as a software engineer at Microsoft. When she's not working, Michelle enjoys playing tennis, watching unhealthy amounts of television, and attending bar trivia with friends.

Reeni Nair

Reeni Nair is a full time student in pursuit of a Biotechnology/Applied Genetics degree and currently works in the Education and Training department of Planned Parenthood the Great Northwest as well as a Health and Wellness Instructor at the YMCA of Greater Seattle. A member of the Health and Wellness and Cultural Competency Committees, she is heavily involved with bringing diversity and cultural/global awareness to non-profits in how they communicate, interact and perceive various communities served. In her spare time, you’ll find Reeni teaching Bollywood, Bellydance and Zumba Fitness, volunteering at her children’s school, gardening, DIYing and knitting. WPIG’s mission-driven philosophy parallels her personal philosophy for investment and outreach to women and youth of our communities and beyond.

Carol Welch

Carol Welch is a senior program officer for the Global Development Policy and Advocacy (GDPA) program at the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. Before moving to Seattle, Carol lived in Washington DC and worked for the United Nations’ Millennium Campaign and Friends of the Earth. Carol has a Bachelors in Foreign Service from Georgetown University and an M.A. from the Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy. She is also a board member of Global Washington.

Teri Foehl

Teri Foehl is a graduate from the University of New Hampshire with a BFA. She did her graduate work at Savannah College of Art & Design. She currently works as an Interior Architect for a firm in Bellevue.

Elena Busto

Elena Busto graduated Occidental College with a BA in Psychobiology in 2007 and a Masters in Nursing with a focus on community and public health in 2010. She currently works as a registered nurse at a community clinic in West Seattle. Additionally, she supports the organization in their efforts to use an electronic health record meaningfully. She was married in July of 2011 and loves skiing, hiking, and exploring Seattle with her husband and friends.

And last but not least, let’s give our new Intern, Jenna Johnston, a warm welcome!

Jenna Johnston

Jenna is a junior at Holy Names Academy. In the past, Jenna has served the community of Seattle through St. Bridget’s Parish. She has also gone on two mission trips to Jonestown, Mississippi to rebuild facilities in the town. In her free time, Jenna likes to read, run, play lacrosse, and travel.

An Amazing Night

2011-11-19T12:13:00.000-08:00

Last Friday, you helped us in making our annual event the most successful to date. We raised just under $30,000 to support Ryther and future WPIG charities. We were truly blown away by the support and so grateful to all those who attended, donated, volunteered, and pitched-in in so many different ways.

Thank you.

The day began early as WPIG members gathered to start setting up at the Fremont Abby

WPIG members Tanya, Jenna, and Alisha set up the Ryther children's art table.

Do you think WPIG supporter Matt Morgan is happy with the art he won by WPIG member/artist Teri Foehl?

Artist/donor Jessica Oldwyn and husband Danny.

Volunteer bartender extraordinaire, Eric Krieger!

WPIG members Ronke and Reeni

WPIG member Becca Hardy did a fantastic job in leading "Raise the Paddle!"

Ryther Executive Director/CEO, Lee Grogg

Thank you to everyone who attended - Can you find yourself!?

WPIG members with Ryther staff members Lee Grogg - Executive Director/CEO, Robin Bennett - Development Director, and Clay Thompson - Development Associate

Auction Sneak Peek #32 - That's All Folks!

2011-11-03T20:05:00.000-07:00

Over the past few weeks we've showcased some of the amazing art & goods that will be available at our auction, TOMORROW. It has been a joy to introduce you to some of our amazing supporters and donors. AND, there is so much more to see at the auction! So looking forward to seeing you there.

And without further ado, we have one last donor we'd like you to meet, Andy Patchin!

You may know Andy as the creator of this...

He designed our logo!

Andy has donated the following photographs to the auction:

12” x 18” photograph taken in La Parva, Chile looking back at Santiago. The city of Santiago is below the clouds.

12” x 18” photograph taken at 3 am looking at Las Lenas, Argentina. (Sorry, you will have to come to the auction to see this one, and it's awesome!)

Andy is also the design guru at Folsom Custom Skis, which is donating some wall art skis! Please learn more about this cool business here!

Auction Sneak Peek #31 - T-2days!

2011-11-02T09:42:00.000-07:00

We are a mere 48 hoursish away from the big day! Here are a few more of the pieces that will be available at the auction on Friday:

Anette Lusher

Framed Photography $180.00

Title: "International Trashcans"

Woodframe 16"x 22"

"Determination"
Acrylic/Mixed Media on Gallery Wrapped Canvas
24"x 8"
$ 280.00

"My work attempts to interpret and explore the central issues of abstract, non-objective forms, and how color can emphasize, direct, interpret, or even re-direct their original shape." - Anette Lusher

Dennis Mullen is one of the rare breeds of glass artists that produce magnificent contemporary works of art along with wonderful utilitarian more traditional glass art. Mullen was one of the exceptional artists that were chosen to produce the ornaments for the Blue Room Christmas tree in the White House. He has also been commissioned to produce various other pieces of public art.

Dennis has donated this incredible glass vase:

See more from Dennis, here.

Annie G Photography has donated a one hour photography session – maternity, engagement, family, baby – you name it she does it! This must be used within 1 year at an agreed upon location around Seattle area

FMV $300

Please visit Annie's site here.

Quick Note About Friday!

2011-11-01T08:58:00.000-07:00

Just 3 days until our art auction, we are psyched and know it's going to be a great time!

We are ready to party and we hope you are too - in fact, your first two drinks are on us! Please remember to bring some cash to donate for additional drinks. See you Friday!

Happy Halloween!

2011-10-31T09:18:00.000-07:00

WPIG got in the Halloween spirit last week when we volunteered at Ryther. Ryther is the local organization that our upcoming auction will benefit. It meant so much to us to spend time with the children and staff that YOU will help us support at the WPIG auction on Friday.

We hosted some Halloween crafts for the kids and got to meet with some of their faithful volunteers.

BOO!

Sugar highs - the staff at Ryther love us ;)

creepy crawlers

Every time we go to Ryther, we leave feeling even more passionate about supporting this organization. We can't wait to see you on Friday at our auction! Hope you have a safe and spooky Halloween!

Auction Sneak Peek #30 - And there's more!

2011-10-30T08:30:00.000-07:00

Seattle Weekly has donated 2 tickets to any show at the 5^th Avenue Theatre this upcoming year. The 2011-2012 season includes: Les Miserables, Saving Aimee, Cinderella, First Date, Oklahoma, Damn Yankees and Rent.

YK Trading, a wholesale pearl distributor/designer, has donated a gorgeous pearl necklace. If you are wondering if she will like this... the answer is YES!

12-13mm freshwater baroque style cultured pearl necklace

18” with sterling silver clasp

FMV – $600

2 hand illustrated 18” square throw pillows printed on 100% organic cotton canvas. Pink polka dots. Custom designed by Libby Anderson.

FMV for the two - $180.00

Auction Sneak Peek #29 - Glassybaby

2011-10-29T09:00:00.000-07:00

We are honored to share with you the inspiring story behind the Seattle-based company, glassybaby.

When the first glassybaby was created in 1998, Lee Rhodes, glassybaby creator and founder, was raising her three small children and fighting what would become a 7-year battle with a rare form of lung cancer. She had endured surgery, countless rounds of chemotherapy, and was searching for a few moments of serenity to escape the fear that encompassed her life. Inspired by the beauty of these elegant vessels, Lee filled them with tea lights and scattered them throughout her home. She found great hope and healing in their color, light and love.

safe
FMV $40

pearl
FMV $40

To honor those who have walked down her same path, Lee established glassybaby goodwill, which remains the company's foundation and mission. During her cancer treatment, Lee met many other patients who could not afford even daily needs such as bus fare, childcare, or groceries. Today, much of the money donated by glassybaby goes directly toward meeting those basic needs. Each year, the company spreads hope by supporting charities dedicated to health, healing, and quality of life.

Thank you to glassybaby for the positive work that you are doing in our community, and for supporting wpig.

Auction Sneak Peek #28 - Rocket Dog, woof!

2011-10-28T20:04:00.000-07:00

We figured that this post would be more meaningful coming from those who know this donor, Rocket Dog, best. So, this was submitted by two of the dogs of WPIG: Stella and Finnbar, and their friend Kai. Our first guestpost!

Rocket Dog LLC is donating 2 overnight stays and 1 daycare day. Lucky lucky dogs!

Finnbar Farragher - "I love to go to stay with Holly and Boone at Rocket Dog when my parents, Meghan and Sean, are gone. I'm kind of a shy guy at first, but they make me feel right at home, like I'm part of the family. In fact, I think I am part of the family- just look where I got to sleep! Hospitality at it's finest!"

Kai Cipolla-Rysavy - "Holly and Boone at Rocket Dog really get me. I mean, just look at the report card they gave me! They are totally right, it's all about the chase. I wasn't even posing for those photos, I'm just kind of an athlete... no big deal."

Stella Patchin Lacy - Weeeeeee look at me run with my pack! I love my days with Rocket Dog! Wait, haven't I already told you about this? If I can't be with my parents, I want to be with the Rocket Dog pack at the park! We love you Holly and Boone!!!

Auction Sneak Peak #27 - Teri Foehl

2011-10-28T19:06:00.000-07:00

WPIG recently accepted 9(!) new(!) members(!) That's right, 9! We promise to tell you all about them soon. But for now, we just want to introduce you to one of them: the very talented Teri Foehl.

Teri is a graduate from the University of New Hampshire with a BFA. She did her graduate work at Savannah College of Art & Design. She currently works as an Interior Architect for a firm in Bellevue. She donated this piece to our auction:

40”x40” metal and black squares on canvas.

We also have to give Teri a big shout out for this...

She did a great job designing our event postcard!
Please see more of Teri's work here.

Auction Sneak Peek #26 - Portland GetAway!

2011-10-28T13:29:00.000-07:00

Are you ready for a weekend away with that someone special or a good girlfriend? Now is your chance to make the I-5 voyage to Portland and indulge yourself in the city of food!

This package includes a King Feature Guestroom and Valet Parking at the Hotel deLuxe, dinner at Trader Vics, massage/acupuncture* for two at Hands on Health, 4 passes to thePortland Art Museum and a few other Oregon treats!

FMV - $800.00

*the lucky bidder can choose a combo of massage and acupuncture or just one or the other.

Auction Sneak Peek #25

2011-10-27T08:09:00.000-07:00

For local artist Mark Banaag, the biggest influences in life comes from one's surroundings. Influences of nature, city life, and urban culture are what he takes and transfers in two ways: canvas work and photography.

Weekend Block Pool
2010, 20” x 20”
Spray Paint and Acrylic on Canvas

Stairway Light
2010, 12x16” Frame, 8x12” Print
Chicago, IL

"A city is not just defined by what it looks from the outside, but through feelings, emotions, and occurrences from within.. I try to spotlight on something that one might pass everyday in their life without realizing its impact." -Mark Banaag

Please see more of Mark's work here.

Sneak Peek #24 - Modrock Design

2011-10-26T16:04:00.000-07:00

Modrock Concrete Design is a Seattle based company providing exceptional concrete products. Modrock’s creator John Hoar has refined the craft of concrete to give a distinctive look to an age-old material. This nearly limitless material gives the freedom to own custom pieces that are as individually distinct as our clients. Modrock Concrete Design thrives on innovation to produce pieces of the highest quality and lasting integrity. Explore the possibilities Modrock Concrete Designs pieces offer for the home, business and more.

Modrock has donated this modern cement stool by the ever-so-talented owner of modrock, John Hoar! Thank you to John and Modrock for supporting our auction!
FMV - $385
See more from Modrock!

Auction Sneak Peek #23 - Something for Everyone!

2011-10-25T08:58:00.000-07:00

Regardless of your style or your budget, the WPIG auction is sure to have beautiful choices for everyone!

Lubberland hillside. By P. Tolle

37 inch height, width 49 inch. Including frame.

FMV - $3500.00

Stephen Bogardus - Black and White framed original photos of Paris; 11"x14" photos in 16"x20" frames (antique white double matting, black frames.)

FMV - $200 for set.

Flowing by Byron Dill is an ink drawing on card stock measuring 8in x 8in. Each individual shape was drawn organically with the purpose of working harmoniously to create one whole.

FMV - $50

The Tree of Me by Diane Dacanay

Mixed Paper on Poster Board

48in x 36in

FMV - $20

Auction Sneak Peek #22 - Anthony Kee

2011-10-24T17:47:00.000-07:00

A second generation Navajo silversmith, Anthony Kee celebrates a new and lively era of jewelry designers. Reared in Scottsdale, Arizona; Anthony follows a traditional family line of noted craftsmen, in a not so traditional vein.

For Kee, a clean and simplistic approach is the essence of his designing art. From earrings to necklaces, each incorporate bold yet sophisticated detail. Each piece is handcrafted with the highest degree of quality and dedication. Anthony's primary medium is sterling silver, yet gold is being utilized more into his latest handmade designs.

Currently, Anthony is working to establish his jewelry website and producing an initial line of high quality production fashion jewelry.

Please see more of Anthony's beautiful jewelry here.

Auction Sneak Peek #21 - Burick Wellness

2011-10-24T10:56:00.000-07:00

Let's stick to the point here - a great massage without the frills! One WPIG member Nicole personally recommends Burrick Wellness to those looking for a no frills, relaxing, massage, guaranteed to kneed all those kinks out! The folks at Burrick have donated one 50 minute therapeutic massage.
http://www.burickwellness.com/

Auction Sneak Peek #20 - Hope

2011-10-20T10:59:00.000-07:00

Drift away to a peaceful space as you enjoy this original “Hope” by Jessica Oldwyn. The chalkboard backdrop and turquoise circular strokes will surely enhance and calm any space. Her art is as raw and positive as she is but you don’t have to take my word for it, just read hers - http://www.jessicaoldwyn.blogspot.com/

36”x18” canvas

Auction Sneak Peek #19 - Mumsy!

2011-10-18T09:30:00.000-07:00

Mumsy jewelry is handcrafted by owner Morgan Neal-Tape in Seattle, WA. The Mumsy line is inspired by natural elements and designed as everyday wear that makes a statement. The original line of mum earrings and hairpins are named after 20 different women who are very important to Morgan. How wpig-esque of her! As a young company, Mumsy is rapidly growing and will be adding new accessory lines soon, we can't wait!

One lucky WPIG supporter will be able to walk away from our auction with this gift basket full of Mumsy earrings in various colors!

FMV $129.50

Please see Mumsy's webite for more information and to find out where you can buy Mumsy products in stores!

Auction Sneak Peek#18 - Michael Walmsley Photography

2011-10-17T17:31:00.000-07:00

We would like to introduce you to a WPIG supporter extraordinaire, Michael Walmsley of Michael Walmsley Photography. Not only did he donate to our auction last year and attend said auction, he is also our biggest donor through Celebrated Chefs! But that's not all, Michael has also contributed this gorgeous framed photograph to our auction this year, lucky WPIG.

Framed photograph (46X35) of the Pantheon in Paris, printed on watercolor paper.
FMV - $1,200

Please view more of Michael's work on his website.

Auction Sneak Peek #17 - Do you know SAM?

2011-10-10T06:03:00.000-07:00

If not, this is your opportunity! The Seattle Art Museum has donated a great package including:

-2 VIP Passes to SAM which will cover the Gauguin exhibit opening in February.

-$50 to TASTE Restaurant and Cafe at the Seattle Art Museum

-A bottle of TASTE’S Masterpiece Red Wine

This would make a perfect gift for friends or a romantic Seattle date. Get your tickets for November 4th so you don't miss this!

Auction Sneak Peek #16 - Sparkle and Shine

2011-10-07T07:15:00.000-07:00

We have two more jewelry artists to introduce you to who will ensure that you will sparkle and shine in the upcoming holiday season!

First, Allison Rennemo of Ida Estelle Designs, Inc. has donated a multiple wraps, her hand-designed bracelets!

At Ida Estelle, it's all about what makes you feel good. Allison loves discovering new materials that inspire her to create. The goal at Ida Estelle is to offer a stellar and quality product to each customer, and to do it with a virtual smile.

See more of Allison's wraps on her website or facebook page!

Second, Karin Finley uses various enamel techniques and incorporates copper, silver, gold, semi-precious, and precious gems to execute her one-of-a-kind jewelry. Layering the classic with the contemporary, Karin’s handcrafted designs reflect a sense of depth and history. She has donated this beautiful necklace to our auction.

Karin lives in Portland, Oregon, where she grew up. She has always been fascinated by art and creating art, closely followed by art history. She worked as a burn nurse before embarking on the second career of creating jewelry. She now designs and executes one-of-a-kind pieces using artistry and patience. Please see her website to view more of her work!

Auction Sneak Peek #15 - Margaret Terrall

2011-10-06T08:14:00.000-07:00

Pacific Northwest artist Margaret Terrall has donated 2 giclee prints that go together as a dyptich, framed. My Summer Flowers 1 and My Summer Flowers 2. Each is 11” x 14”.

Example of her work:

About Margaret:

I have lived in Portland, Oregon my entire life. My inspiration for my paintings comes from my garden and studio, the beauty of Oregon, the Pacific Northwest and from my travels locally and abroad. Subject matter ranges from the still life, landscapes, cityscapes or people and I combine watercolor with oil pastel, ink and colored pencil. I use acrylic paint with techniques such as scumbling, scraping, stamping and stenciling. I love rich and bold color, relationships and contrasts of shapes, lines, colors and textures. To add more texture or interest to a painting, I glue down assorted papers and other collage materials to the canvas or masonite board with acrylic gloss gels. I love laying down color upon color with a dry brush technique and seeing the combination of several colors show through each other.

http://www.margaretterrall.com/#artists-statement
FMV - $500

Shout out to Georgetown Brewing Company!

2011-10-05T16:24:00.000-07:00

Thank you for your generous donation to the WPIG auction, we can't wait to serve your local brews to our guests!

http://www.georgetownbeer.com/

Auction Sneak Peek #14 - Whimsical and Fancy Free

2011-10-05T12:10:00.000-07:00

These two WPIG artists know how to have fun and produce pieces to make you smile :)

Jenise Moats donated 12 one-of-a-kind vintage button rings valued at $10 apiece. These gems would make a wonderful addition to any accessory tree or wonderful stalking stuffers for the holidays!

Next up, Meghan Malone Farragher (hmm Farragher...why does that name sound familiar?) will keep you or your mom friends happy and spit-up-free with her handmade burp rags in fun fabrics.

Meghan is also our WPIG President! Oink!

Auction Sneak Peek #13

2011-10-04T08:13:00.000-07:00

Transport yourself to the Irish coast everyday with this beautiful piece by artist Sean Farragher.

"Donegal by Night"

9x12 inch Acrylic on Canvas.

Auction Sneak Peek #12

2011-09-30T17:23:00.000-07:00

Artist Necole-Efua Wood has generously donated three pieces to our auction!

And this is what she has to say about her art:

Hello, my name is Necole-Efua Wood and I am living proof that there is much to be said about a diverse upbringing. My mother is Ghanaian and Filipino and my father is Irish American. Exposure to such diversity at a young age, naturally led to my broad understanding of love, life, art, style, tradition, and my passion for travel.

These past couple of years I have made it my personal mission to travel to another country at least once a year. I have been to Ghana, London, Philippines, Greece, Taiwan, and South Korea. The exciting part is this is just the beginning.

In the midst of my traveling, I began to appreciate and question the little things that led to the creation of bigger things. I believe that life is a beautiful gift that is constantly expressed through many art forms; jewelry, paintings, clothes, poetry, makeup, dance, etc., and my goal is to expose you to all of those.

Auction Sneak Peek #11

2011-09-28T08:49:00.000-07:00

We'd like to introduce you to artist Betsy Barnum of Reverie Studio! Betsy has donated this facinating piece to our auction:

"It won't matter either way"

The painting's composition is meant to evoke a feeling of comfort but uncertainty. The right figure could be protecting the left figure from the bird, or ambivalent about it. The ocean water creates a sense of unknown.

One framed artwork made from acrylic paint, pencil, and collage on paper. Created in 2008. Size is 44 x 30".

Ready for hanging/display.

Please see Betsy's website to view more of her work!

Auction Sneak Peek #10

2011-09-26T08:28:00.000-07:00

Dum Dum da Dum! Our next WPIG artist will have you or a friend looking fabulous on your big day! Angela Inez created Bella and Beya after she designed a bridal hairpiece for her friend to wear on her big day. She loved her flower fascinator so much that she asked Angela to create the hair pieces for her bridesmaids.

Angela loves going to flea markets and antique shops for inspiration. Her goal as a designer is to create bridal accessories for the modern bride that are affordable, classic and fun! Angela has donated two pieces to the WPIG art auction:

The Gardenia Bridal Flower is white in color, made with silk petals and is adorned with vintage inspired rhinestone piece in the center. The Gardenia Flower attached to a silver alligator hairclip for easy styling. The flower is approximately 4 inches in diameter. Retails for $28.

This lovely ruffled garter is adorned with a pretty pink bow and a vintage inspired sterling silver heart charm. Stretches from 12" to 22". Retails for $22.

Please see the Bella and Beya Etsy site to see more of Angela's work!

Auction Sneak Peek #9

2011-09-25T20:16:00.000-07:00

WPIG is happy to re-introduce you to artist and jewelry-maker Irene Wood of Crow's Catch! Irene was a donor to last year's auction and is back this year with this beautiful pair of earrings.

They are hand-crafted from jade, vintage lucite and pearl on surgical steel plated earwires. They retail for $40. Please be sure to check out Irene's Etsy site to see more of her beautiful jewelry!

Irene Wood, currently an artist in Seattle, WA, graduated with a BA in Studio Art from Whitman College in 2004. Her semi-abstract paintings explore themes of growth, displacement and decay through impressionistic explorations of distorted scale and familiar motifs of the natural landscape. Her intuitive process consists of layering brushstrokes and washes in grid-like axes, a reflection of a seemingly inherent desire to compartmentalize in linear fashions. The many layers of abstract form, color, and nature imagery create visions of ecological utopias that live on the edge between reality and fiction. These are elaborations of visceral memories and heavily embellished illusions of dream-like environments, as tense as they are harmonious.

Please visit her website to see her paintings and find out about her upcoming shows!

Auction Sneak Peek #8

2011-09-20T10:16:00.000-07:00

Let's be honest gentlemen, your look could use a little TLC, right? Or ladies, maybe you need to just step in and make this happen for your man.

Capelli’s Gentleman’s Barbershop

http://www.capellis.com/

Capelli's has donated a basket totaling $140 worth of product and a few gift certificates for their signature haircut!
Capelli's has two locations in downtown Seattle and will be opening in South Lake Union soon!

Auction Sneak Peek #7

2011-09-20T10:01:00.000-07:00

Ever wonder what you would taste like if you were a beer? No? Well since you are thinking that now... you have the chance to make that dream come true. One lucky WPIG support will have a chance to sit down, have a chat, ruminate, and develop two cases of your very own beer with beer maker Howard Kuo! The package will include two cases of you with personalized labels that Howard will help you to create. The essence of you... in beer form.

Howard Kuo: Engineer by day. Your very own personalized beer nerd by night. He has been home brewing for two years and loves sharing his passion for making things delicious.

Brews of the Past include:
Fresh Hop Pale Ale w/ Fresh Hops from the backyard
Belgian Tripel
Northwest Porter
French Farmhouse Saison
Rye-PA
Tamarind Dark Saison
Fruit Lambic
Belgian Blonde Ale
American style Barleywine
Old Ale
Belgian Strong Dark Ale
Oud Bruin - Flanders Brown Ale
Unification I - Scottish Wee Heavy finished on California Dates, Vanilla Beans, and American Oak
Unification II - Belgian Style Wild Ale w/ Chrysanthemum, Orange Blossom Honey, and French Oak

WPIG is also so grateful that Howard will also be donating some of his beer for the event as a preview of his talents!

WPIG in the News!

2011-09-09T13:10:00.000-07:00

Check out this article about WPIG, it was recently published in the Jesuit Magazine!

WPIG Jesuit Article

Auction Sneak Peek #6

2011-09-08T16:29:00.000-07:00

Ahhh wouldn't you love to bring more peace into your home? Here is a golden opportunity. Third and Wall Art Group has generously donated this original painting to the WPIG art auction!

A Peaceful Spot by Terri Burris.

This piece measures 16 x 20” and retails for $900.

About the Donor:
Third & Wall Art Group, LLC is a Seattle-based art company founded in 2005 by a diverse group of professionals dedicated to creating an environment where artists, clients and employees can enjoy the freedom and inspiration to create, innovate and prosper. Third & Wall takes a unique approach to the decorative market by mentoring and promoting the best and brightest contemporary artists, and partnering them with clients to infuse unique, trend-setting styles into the appropriate market channels. The result is a mutually beneficial symbiosis between artist, client and the client’s market channels. Third & Wall currently represents the original artworks, print-on-demand giclées, fine art posters and alternative wall decor products of more than 30 artists, and continually offers trend-forward contemporary imagery and consultation to corporate, hospitality, healthcare, retail and residential clients.

About the Artist:
Terri Burris was born in Los Angeles, California, and grew up in sunny Hermosa Beach. She developed her interest in art at an early age, under the magical guidance of two neighbors, who became her first teachers. After studying art and painting in college, Terri went on to work as a graphic designer professionally for fifteen years. Bolstered in an extensive career in textile, graphic and ceramic design, and feeling the need for more spontaneous control of her artwork, she returned to her first and greatest love, painting—a vocation that she pursues avidly in addition to her role as a buyer for The Rose Café, a local gift shop in Venice, California.

Terri is a recipient of the Image-Ination Award and a selected artist of the Los Angeles County Museum of Art Rental and Sales Gallery. She has exhibited at SKGallery in Venice, CA; Bergamot Station in Santa Monica, CA; Long Beach Arts in Long Beach, CA; Fred Segal in Santa Monica, CA; and Finegood Gallery in West Hills, CA. She studied at El Camino College and Palomar College in Southern California. She continues to create living memories with her husband and little boy in her native Los Angeles.

Auction Sneak Peek #6

2011-09-07T09:16:00.000-07:00

The holidays are going to be here before you know it and our next artist will help you to capture the perfect photo for your card! Or maybe you have a new baby, are recently engaged, or need headshots for work? Whatever the occasion, one lucky WPIG supporter will be the winner of a photo shoot with Erin Schedler Photography!

"Capturing moments of true happiness, real emotion and unbridled laughter are what exemplify my work and keep me passionate about what I do. I feel there are beautiful images all around us..."

-Erin Schedler

This shoot entitles you to a one hour session with Erin Schedler Photography at a location of your choosing in the Seattle area. Time can be used for a family portrait, newborn or maternity session, engagement photos or however you like! Client will receive a DVD with 50+ edited and retouched images. Value: $225.

http://www.erinschedlerphoto.com/

Auction Sneak Peek #5

2011-09-05T13:48:00.000-07:00

Our ~~nest~~ next WPIG artist will have you looking fine in feathers, perfect for fall fashion. Amanda Padilla has generously donated three pairs of her gorgeous earrings.

All Earrings are designed and crafted by Amanda Padilla, a self-taught artist from the San Francisco Bay Area. All earrings are made with hypoallergenic silver and a variety of bird feathers. Please check out Amanda's website to see more of her work!

Auction Sneak Peek #4

2011-08-30T08:44:00.000-07:00

We are so excited to introduce you to our next WPIG auction artist, Robinette Struckel of RS_Photographs.

Like my Grandfather, "Oscar", who was a photographer, I am self taught and wouldn’t feel whole if I didn't have access to my camera. I have been taking photographs for nineteen years, of which six of those, I was a Forensic Photographer and photographically documented bodies of deceased persons, crime scenes, evidentiary items, injuries, and anatomical specimens that were then used in a court of law. These days, I call myself an Amateur Documentary Photographer and use Flickr to share and sell my images:

Robinette has generously donated 4 photographs for our auction. The images will come as 11x14 (matte finish) with a white matte border and standard black frame. Each is valued at $75.00 for a total of $300.00.
Please check out more of Robinette's beautiful photographs on her flickr site or you can contact her at struckel.robinette@gmail.com.

Thank you Robinette!

The Pets of WPIG - Stella!

2011-08-29T10:05:00.000-07:00

With all of our recent posts about investing, events, and volunteering, you might be starting to think that being a member of WPIG is all work and no play. That couldn't be further from the truth and today we would like to introduce you to one of our furry friends who ensures that WPIG members are care-free and always make time to play!

Miss Stella

My name is Stella. I am a 14 month old golden retriever who lives with my parents Scott and Katie. A perfect day to me is spending the day at Rocketdog (doggie daycare) while my parents are at work, hanging out with all my furry friends, and going swimming at Magnusson Park with my boyfriend Max.

I'm a very deep thinker...

Other hobbies include laying in the shade, chewing on my favorite stick and then coming home to either play at the school across the street with my Frisbee or walk my frozen-yogurt-addicted mom to Menchies! I really love food and will even give you a high five if you promise me a piece of cheese or some peanut butter.

Hand over the peanut butter or I will shake on you.

I look forward to meeting you soon!

Auction Sneak Peek #3

2011-08-25T17:07:00.000-07:00

You have always wanted to try Barre3, right!? Well now is your chance! Barre3 has donated 1 month of unlimited classes and a Barre3 shirt and water bottle to WPIG's auction this fall.

Develop the length of a dancer and the strength of an athlete at barre3; where ballet barre meets yoga and pilates. All packages are transferable to the Seattle-Capitol Hill, Bellevue, and the brand new Issaquah-Highlands studio opening September 7th. Please check out their website for exact locations, class schedules and more information:

Thank you to Barre3 for your kind donation – we are excited to share this transforming workout with our community!

After that Barre 3 workout your tired muscles might be calling for a massage... which brings us to our next auction item: Karen Hogan BHK, LMP, CCST with Prana Massage. Karen Hogan with Prana Massage has donated a one hour massage to take you away from your daily stressors. Karen "looks forward to providing you with the therapeutic care that relaxes the body, creates stillness to the mind, and nurtures the soul.”

Prana Massage is conveniently located in Greenlake above YogaLife. Thank you Karen for your generous donation – this is sure to be a crowd pleaser!

Please check out Karen’s website for more information about her services.

Auction Sneak Peek #2

2011-08-23T10:45:00.000-07:00

Our second auction item sneak peek will enlighten your backyard and maybe even your heart. It is a gorgeous outdoor garden lantern hanger crafted from iron and copper.

Valued $150

Only one lucky bidder can take home this lantern. But if you don't get it, don't worry! If you are not the winner of the garden lantern hanger and really would like one, Commercial Asset Services has offered to create one after the auction in exchange for a $150 donation to WPIG of Seattle. How about that!?

Commercial Asset Services specializes in urban pots and gardens for more information about these services please contact lbendzak@comcast.net

Art Auction Sneak Peek

2011-08-22T15:45:00.000-07:00

Over then next several weeks we'll be showcasing some of the fantastic art that will be available at our WPIG Art Auction this fall.
Without further ado, here is our first featured artist, Rebecca Blume!

"These handmade earrings are all unique. I love using earth tones as well as colors, and spend time putting together complimentary colors and shapes. I use vintage resin, glass, and various stones. Lots of love goes into making these earrings. The movement and the way they carry is important to me. Thanks for taking the time to check them out!"

Donated 5 pairs of earrings valued $20 - $25 each

To see more of Rebecca's beautiful work, check out her shop BlumeaRring by rlblume on Etsy here!

Meet Tiffani!

2011-08-17T20:11:00.000-07:00

Meet WPIG Member, Tiffani Lee!

Tiffani has been a WPIG member for about a year and a half and has already brought so much to the group. She became interested in WPIG partly as a way to meet new people in Seattle, but mostly because she wanted to get involved in her community and give back on a more personal level.

Originally from Lake Oswego, Oregon Tiffani moved up to Seattle after high school to attend the University of Washington. When asked what she thinks of Seattle, she says "After traveling all over the country, I can honestly say that I love the Pacific Northwest and there's no place in America like it!"

There are a lot of us that agree with you, Tiffani!

Tiffani earned a double major in Communications and Political Science from the UW, all the while interning at a local brokerage firm. Upon graduating with the dual degrees, Tiffani decided to pursue her career in finance and is currently working here in the Seattle area.

In her free time, Tiffani enjoys spending time with her family, running in the outdoors, skiing, attending concerts, cooking and traveling. This is a photo of Tiffani's recent trip to Italy!

Like so many others, Tiffani is a fellow foodie and enjoys checking out new restaurants in and around the Seattle area. Feel free to offer her some of your best culinary suggestions by commenting here!

Not only has Tiffani been a fantastic addition to the larger group, she has played instrumental roles in her involvement in the Events, Philanthropy and Marketing Committees. We appreciate the personality that she brings to the group by way of her enthusiasm and positivity. Join us in saying thank you to Tiffani for being a great WPIG member!

Stock Market Got You Down?

2011-08-10T16:25:00.000-07:00

Maybe listening to this informative podcast, Financial Advice, on personal investing will help. Jane Bryan Quinn is a guest on Seattle Public Radio KUOW's "The Conversation." Jane Bryant Quinn is a personal finance advocate and the author of "Making the Most of Your Money NOW!"

Bruce Herbert: Getting McDonald's To The Table

2011-07-26T09:20:00.000-07:00

Click on the link below to hear a fascinating interview with Bruce Herbert, founder of the Seattle-based investment firm Newground Social Investment. He works from the inside, leveraging the power that corporate shareholders have to advocate for socially responsible policies. Bruce spoke with KUOW's Megan Sukys about how he got McDonald's to the table to review the level of pesticides in their potatoes.

Bruce Herbert: Getting McDonald's To The Table

WPIG in the News!

2011-07-14T11:20:00.000-07:00

WPIG members Nicole Demmon and Meghan Malone Farragher were recently featured in their alma mater's alumni newsletter!

Nicole left, Meghan right.

Both Nicole and Meghan attended University of San Diego's School of Leadership and Education Sciences and graduated in 2005. Here is an exercept from the newsletter:

"Nicole Demmon and Meghan Malone '05 (BA) helped form a nonprofit group called the Women's Philanthropic Investment Group (WPIG), in Seattle Washington. The two women want to thank American Humanics and USD for "instilling a foundation of being educated women for others." For more information about the investment group, go to: wpigseattle.org."

Nice work Meghan and Nicole!

Meet Kym Haley!

2011-06-27T22:33:00.000-07:00

Since the Spring of 2009 Kym Haley has been an avid and dedicated member of WPIG. Its investment concept was what intrigued Kym’s initial motivation to join WIPG, setting itself apart from the hundreds of philanthropic organizations in Seattle. Kym wanted to learn more about investing not only on a personal level, but also on a philanthropic level, benefiting the charity of WPIG’s choosing. Having the opportunity to get to know other women in WPIG was an added bonus as well. Kym currently serves as the Chair of the social committee, and a member of the finance committee.

Born and raised in Dallas, TX, Kym is a Texan at heart. After high school Kym moved to Colorado to study at the University of Colorado at Boulder. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in civil engineering and her Mater’s in construction engineering management. Soon after, Kym moved to Seattle in 2007 to work for a private real estate development company. Now Kym currently is working for a non-profit, which develops affordable housing for low-income families at the Low Income Housing Institute.

On her free time, Kym finds pleasure in working in her garden, travelling, cooking, camping, spending time with her family and friends, playing softball and volleyball, and enjoying the outdoors.

And the Votes Are In.....

2011-06-12T09:39:00.000-07:00

MARY'S PLACE RULES!

WPIG volunteered Sunday afternoon at Mary's Place, which was an all-around success! Here's what two WPIG members had to say about this experience:

"It was a pretty powerful afternoon hearing from 3 women who LOVE Mary’s Place and all that it has to offer them in their life of transition." -Katie Patchin

"The facility is closed on Sundays, but they did have a few women that came in to help us… they shared their stories with us, which was really nice and for me, really reinforced why I am in WPIG and why we all were there. It was a great day!" -Alisha Eastman

WPIG split into three groups for the afternoon:
Group 1 sorted through and organized Bon Mary’s. This is a shopping area where the women can buy things such as shampoo, conditioner, make-up, plates, etc. When the women do chores at the facility, they earn points which they can use to buy items at Bon Mary's one day a week. Group 1 worked with a 26 year old who has used Mary’s Place since last August. Even though she is now in subsidized housing through the YWCA she still finds Mary's Place a wonderful resource for meals and emotional support.

Group 2 built lockers for the women who work in the kitchen to put their belongings while they prepare the food). I think they were accompanied by a woman who is 55 and homeless. She told WPIG how she loves Mary’s place for the fellowship and sisterhood. She usually hates Sundays because Mary’s Place is closed!

Group 3 sterilized toys in the family room, which provides a space for women and their children. It is meant to be a space where the women can call to make appointments for housing/jobs etc. and their kids can play.
In addition, WPIG donated hygiene products, socks, and coffee. Special thanks to Starbucks, who helped us in the donation of coffee!

So now, it's time to hear from YOU, our loyal readers!

Question of the day: What is the best volunteer experience you've had and what made it special? Can't wait to hear from you!

Mary's Place

2011-05-16T16:22:00.000-07:00

It's amazing how many impressive non-profit organizations there are in the Seattle area that are making a positive impact on our community every single day. Sometimes, we may not even know about these great organizations until we have a personal experience with them. Today, we would like to personally introduce you to Mary's Place.

Mary’s Place Day Center is a weekday program that provides a welcoming and accepting environment where homeless women and their children can build community, enrich their days and find resources to restore their lives.

Their programs include:
Two hot meals per day
AA/NA Meetings
Bastyr Naturopathic Clinic
Bon Mary’s Incentive Program
Clothing Distribution
Community Service Site
Field Trips
Housing and Employment Resources
Hygiene, Shower and Laundry Service
Lingerie Program
Mail and Phone Services
Medical Care
Move-In Assistance
Resource Referrals
Shelter Referrals
Support Groups: Domestic Violence, Seeking Safety, Treatment Options and Referral
Volunteer Services
YWCA Health Access Program

Mary's Place most certainly aligns with our mission of helping women and children move from a place of need to one of self-sufficiency. We are so excited to partner with Mary's Place for our next volunteering opportunity. Stay tuned for a report about this in early June!

WPIG introduces the one and only: Becka Hardy!

2011-04-30T21:46:00.000-07:00

Over a year ago, WPIG was fortunate enough to gain a valuable member, Becka Hardy. Becka was drawn to WPIG for the opportunity to work together with similar women her age to create a non-profit organization with common goals and visions. Working with women who wanted to help other women and children, while giving back to our community, really felt like the perfect fit for what she was looking for in her life. Becka currently serves on the Event and Philanthropy committees.

Aside from WPIG, Becka manages to keep herself pretty busy… to say the least! In addition to working full time at a tech firm, helping out with the Seattle Storm team, Becka is working towards her Master in Sports Administration and Leadership degree at Seattle University. Upon graduation in June 2012, she hopes to either work in collegiate or professional athletics or find other opportunities in health and fitness.

Although Becka does not have a lot of free time these days, she still manages to find time for the important things in life… running/training for marathons, hanging out with her friends and family, going on road trips, and playing with her dog! In fact, during her year off of employment, she was able to accomplish a few goals she had set for herself, which included beating her marathon time, traveling Southeast Asia, and getting into graduate school. She is currently looking forward to starting her UW internship this fall and figuring out what area of her Masters program she will enjoy the most.

Something you may not guess about Becka:

She likes to use chopsticks as often as possible!

Becka is an amazing young woman and WPIG is lucky to have her!

Spring is in Bloom at Ryther

2011-04-11T08:42:00.000-07:00

Flower wreaths

It may not be apparent by the Seattle weather, but spring is here and the proof is at Ryther Child Center! WPIG recently volunteered at Ryther by hosting a spring art evening for the kiddos. We brought four art projects for the kids to work on and it's safe to say that a fun time was had by all! To get involved or to learn more about Ryther please visit http://www.ryther.org/

Who would have known that the flower wreaths could double as crowns!?

The making of a watercolor butterfly (see last pic for finished product)

The highlight of the evening for many of us was when an extremely experienced counselor told us with tears in his eyes that he had been to many events for the kids in his time at Ryther, but that this was THE best! He noted how all of his kids were not only showing great behavior, but most importantly, they were having fun!

The mud pie pudding cups... Mmmmmmm!

Creepy crawly garden spiders

This was such a treat for us, not only because it was a great volunteer opportunity, but because we know how important it is for the children at Ryther to experience creative outlets in addition to the top-notch therapy and education that Ryther provides.

Aww shux, you are welcome Ryther!

We partner quarterly with various non-profit organizations in the Seattle-area for volunteering opportunities. If you know of an organization that WPIG could volunteer for, please let us know!

A Champagne Toast for some BIG NEWS!

2011-03-29T11:11:00.000-07:00

A toast was in order at the monthly meeting March 28th, for some big news...

WPIG is delighted to announce that we have been granted 501c3 tax-exempt status as a non-profit organization! Special thanks goes to Andy Aley of Garvey Schubert Barer Law Firm for donating his legal expertise and helping us immensely in this lengthy process. Getting this status is a critical piece for furthering our mission and we look forward to starting this new chapter as a group. Congratulations WPIG!

WPIG Members Participate in One Night Count!

2011-03-28T15:46:00.000-07:00

On January 28th, WPIG members Meghan Malone Farragher, Kym Haley, and Katie Patchin volunteered their time for One Night Count. But they didn't just volunteer "any" time, they volunteered from 2am to 5am! That is commitment, ladies!

What is the One Night Count?

King County has one of the nation's best-established point-in-time counts of homeless people. The One Night Count remains the largest community-organized count in the United States. 2010 will mark the 30th year that our community has sent teams out into the night to see how many of our neighbors are homeless and without shelter. Over 900 volunteers go out with 125 trained team leaders to pre-arranged areas in King County.

Why do we do the Count?

We carry out the One Night Count for two reasons: to document the nature and extent of homelessness in King County, and to build public engagement and action around the issue. It is a solemn and eye-opening opportunity to witness the survival struggles of our neighbors who are homeless. Hundreds of community members come together for this annual count, which acts as a powerful launching off point for participants to speak up and act and write and advocate to end this crisis.

Annual Letter to WPIG's Friends and Supporters

2011-01-18T08:13:00.000-08:00

January 2011

Dear Friends and Supporters of WPIG,

Happy New Year! We wanted to take some time to share with you the progress that the Women's Philanthropic Investment Group of Seattle has made over the past year.

At the beginning of the year, we welcomed six new members to our group:

Becka Hardy, Julianna Yamamoto, Megan Thomas, Meghan Wagner, Nicole Demmon and Tiffani Lee. These new members bring intelligence, insight and incredible dedication to our cause of helping women and children move from a place of need to one of self-sufficiency.

In addition to welcoming new members, our marketing committee unveiled a fresh new website in 2010 as well as starting a WPIG blog and Facebook page. No tweeting yet but this could be our New Years resolution. Please visit and follow us regularly at www.wpigseattle.org.

In 2010 we officially kicked off the lengthy application process to be recognized as a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization. The Women’s Philanthropic Investment Group of Seattle’s application has been submitted and is currently being reviewed. We owe a very gracious thank you to attorney Andy Aley with Garvey Schubert Barer for the generous pro-bono help in administering and submitting the application. We are all eagerly awaiting 501(c)(3) status and have our fingers crossed for a BIG announcement in 2011!

Our 2010 focal charity was Ryther Child Center; a local 125 year-old non-profit focused on treating troubled children through innovative and proven therapeutic techniques. In June we invested our time with Ryther for a full Saturday of service. Much to the delight of the Ryther staff, we washed all of their vans and also did some painting. In October, our philanthropy committee put on a wildly successful fall art festival for the children with five craft stations ranging from spooky stain glass windows to yummy frosted cookies! This partnership with Ryther, allowed WPIG of Seattle to invest time, donate money, and gift art supplies for each cottage. We are also very honored with the opportunity to celebrate Ryther’s125 years of service at their annual luncheon.

In addition to partnering with Ryther, we have continued to make volunteering and investing our time in the community a commitment. To that end, in month, we volunteered at Westside Baby donation center in White Center. This non-profit serves families in need throughout our community by providing food, clothing, supplies, toys and diapers. We thoroughly enjoyed the enriching evening of service.

2010 marked the first annual WPIG of Seattle retreat in the lovely Roslyn, Washington. The ladies of WPIG enjoyed an evening out of Seattle to bond and re-energize for the coming year.

This holiday season the little WPIG elves were busy “making” one Seattle family’s holiday a little bit more cheerful with gift sponsorship through the downtown YWCA. We were happy to see many of your faces at Targy's on Queen Anne where WPIG of Seattle collected $1122 of generous donations from the Mark Fox Christmas Gala.

WPIG of Seattle is especially proud to have partnered with Ryther as our 2010 charity. Together with your investment in WPIG of Seattle, we were able to truly make a difference in the lives of local children and families. It has been a genuine pleasure partnering with Ryther this past year, so much so that we have committed to having them as our 2011 charity!

We want to extend our warmest thanks to all of you who have supported us in so many ways this past year. We could not have accomplished so much without you; our investors!

With gratitude,

Women's Philanthropic Investment Group of Seattle www.wpigseattle.org

Meet Alisha Eastman!

2010-11-20T10:43:00.000-08:00

A few weeks ago, during a WPIG retreat in Roslyn, I was fortunate enough to sit down and learn a little more about Alisha Eastman. Alisha was one of the six founding members of WPIG. She was drawn to the group because she liked the idea of a women’s organization focused on educating its members and giving back to the community. Alisha currently chairs the Marketing Committee, and as chair, she created our fantastic new WPIG website (http://www.wpigseattle.org).

After endless hours of hard work and dedication, Alisha will be graduating in December with her Masters in Social Work (MSW) from Eastern Washington University (Everett Campus). Her education doesn’t stop there though. Next, she will begin her training to become a Doula, and then she will start the three year process of earning her LICSW (Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker License). With all of that education, I couldn’t help but wonder, what is her ultimate professional goal? Without hesitation, and with contagious enthusiasm, she tells me that her dream is to eventually open up a comprehensive services clinic where prenatal and postnatal women (and families) will have access to doulas, midwifes, pediatricians, counselors, and more. Although some years out, I have no doubt her dream will be realized, and I cannot wait to witness her future success.

Alisha with her niece & nephew

While her studies and work as a medical biller and elementary school tutor keep her busy, she still manages to find free time, and when that time arises, she enjoys spending it with her niece and nephew. To that end, she gave them each a coupon book filled with activities to do with auntie, and they are working on using each coupon - next up, bowling!

Just when I thought Alisha couldn’t get any more amazing, she divulged this final fun fact: Between 13-18 years old, Alisha arm-wrestled for the Washington State Arm-Wrestling Association. Because there were not many teens, she arm-wrestled in the women’s division; in 1998, she was both the Teenage girls and the Women’s Light Weight Washington State Arm-Wrestling Champion. In 1999, Alisha and her mom held a charity arm-wrestling tournament to raise funds for a teen homeless shelter, Teen Hope (no longer in business). Amazing!

What an incredible young woman, and I am so glad to be a part of WPIG with her!

Volunteering at Ryther Child Center

2010-11-07T19:39:00.000-08:00

Every few months, the WPIG philanthropy committee organizes a volunteer opportunity. This month, WPIG planned and facilitated a night of fall and Halloween themed arts and crafts activities for the children living at Ryther Child Center. This is the second time WPIG has volunteered at Ryther. WPIG had a great time washing vans and cleaning up the Ryther campus this past summer. Ryther also happens to be WPIG’s charity of the year.

WPIG chose to support Ryther this year because of the essential work that Ryther does in our community. Ryther Child Center offers and develops safe places and opportunities for children, youth and families to heal and grow so that they can reach their highest potential. Since opening 125 years ago, Ryther has become a recognized leader in providing and advocating for a comprehensive continuum of care and assistance for children, youth and families experiencing or at risk from neglect, mental illness, or emotional, physical, sexual and/or chemical abuse. Learn more about Ryther here.

International Day for the Eradication of Poverty

2010-10-19T13:39:00.000-07:00

On Sunday October 17, the United Nations observed the 24th annual International Day for the Eradication of Poverty. This day is as an essential reminder that, in times of economic downturn, it is especially important to reflect on how we can help people who are less fortunate than us.

During this year alone, the percentage of Americans living in poverty hit a 15-year high: one in seven, or 44 million. This astounding number of Americans living in poverty has given scholars and politicians new material for an old argument. In today’s New York Times, Patricia Cohen writes about the contentious term, “The Culture of Poverty”.

Cohen writes that unlike the sociologists of the 1960’s, social scientists today have “rejected the notion of a monolithic and unchanging culture of poverty”. Instead of attributing destructive attitudes and behavior to an inherent “bad” moral character, sociologists are finally recognizing the impact of sustained racism and isolation. This shift in thought is important beyond academia. Much of the research on the “culture of poverty” intersects policy debates and can ultimately influence social welfare laws.

While lawmakers and academia continue to focus on large scale solutions for combating sustained racism and isolationism, individuals and groups like WPIG can support the fight to eradicate poverty in small but powerful ways. The U.N. has suggested that groups, as well as individuals, focus on supporting organizations and ideas that lead to sustainable models for economic stability through job creation.

http://www.idealist.org/ blogged that a great place to start helping people living in poverty is through organizations that facilitate microlending. Over the last few years, WPIG members have supported microcredit organizations like www.kiva.org. Microcredit programs provide small loans to individuals living in poverty. This innovative method of empowering people, effectively breaks the cycle of poverty. Check out www.kiva.org today.

"The campaign to make poverty history-a central moral challenge of our age-cannot remain a task for the few, it must become a calling for the many. On this International Day for the Eradication of Poverty, I urge everyone to join this struggle. Together, we can make real and sufficient progress towards the end of poverty." -Kofi Annan

Giving differnces?

2010-10-04T10:48:00.000-07:00

Today I came across an interesting link on http://www.philanthropy.com/ According to this study, over half of all young Americans (generations X and Y) are giving to charity. The amount of money donated is small, especially compared to older adults. Of course the older we get, the more able we are to donate. The fact that over half of young Americans are supporting charity, especially during time of economic downturn is encouraging. Keep up the good work!

Support WPIG when you eat out this fall and winter.

2010-10-04T10:43:00.000-07:00

WPIG partnered with Celebrated Chefs last year and the result has been excellent! The support we have received has helped increase our giving power and our ability to support organizations like our charity of the year, Ryther Child Center. This October, we would like to increase our Celebrated Chefs membership by 160 new participants! Are you ready to sign up? All you have to do is eat out...

Curious about Celebrated Chefs? Celebrated Chefs is an organization that brings together over 80 of the finest restaurants in Seattle area with non-profits like ours. You need only to enroll in the FREE program and enjoy fine dining at participating Celebrated Chefs restaurants.

How does it work?

Enroll in the Celebrated Chefs program and designate WPIG as the organization you wish to support. Then simply dine out with the Visa, MasterCard, or AMEX you enroll as part of your membership. The restaurants donate 5% of your dining bill to our cause automatically!
Really no fee or cost to me?

Yes really! There is absolutely no enrollment fee or hidden costs to you! Once you sign up you will receive a Celebrated Chefs Cookbook containing a signature recipe from each participating restaurant. The cookbook is their way of introducing you to the wonderful fare you will experience when you dine at the area’s finest restaurants.
Free, but will my information be sold or given away?

No! Your information is never given to any third parties.
Is it secure?

Yes, Celebrated Chef is Visa, MasterCard and AMEX certified. All website communication is secured by the same technology used by banks to protect their customers.
Ready to sign up? Click here!

Meet Nicole Demmon!

2010-09-27T15:25:00.000-07:00

Our featured member is Nicole Demmon. Originally from Northern California, Nicole spent time in San Diego and more recently in San Francisco but has no regrets making Seattle her home. She is currently in her 2nd year of law school at Seattle University.

WPIG was delighted when Nicole joined the group this year. Nicole brings with her great training and hands on experience with her certificate in American Humanics and a member of the Junior League of San Francisco. She chose WPIG as a way to continue her work in non-profit while meeting more people and getting involved in a smaller organization where she could make an impact. Nicole will be heading up our Ryther Volunteer Day at the end of October. We’re looking forward to a successful day of arts and crafts with the kids at Ryther

School and WPIG keeps Nicole very busy but when not in class she can be found among other things, in the gym, walking or running with friends, being a Seattle Tourist and trying to keep up with her CW addiction. For all of you One Tree Hill Fans out there Nicole wants to hear from you!

The hobby that cannot be forgotten is travel and planning her next vacation! There is a good chance you will find her up on the ski slopes at Whistler this winter. San Francisco is still her favorite town but Madrid, Prague and Cairns are in her top three. And when asked – “Traveler” or “Vacationer”? Definitely a Traveler!

WPIG featured online at Vivanista!

2010-08-18T11:34:00.000-07:00

WPIG was featured this morning on Vivanista. This fabulous article profiles the back story of WPIG. Curious about how WPIG came to be? Wondering about the philosophy behind WPIG's philanthropy efforts? Vivanista tells all... Check out the article here.

WPIG is excited to be a part of the Vivanista community. Vivanista has created a "a member-based, lifestyle community for fundraising volunteers". On Vivanista, groups like WPIG are "sharing unique insights, expert tips and a spirit of giving empowers members to improve their own lives and the lives of others". Vivanista has focused on developing a comprehensive website in which best practices in fundraising and other essential tools can be shared in an effort to increase the success of charitable events. Vivanista says that “as a result, more money is generated for nonprofit organizations and greater good is contributed to society”. To learn more about Vivanista, please visit http://www.vivanista.com/

Thanks Vivanista!

(quotes from the http://www.vivanista.com/)

Wearing Jeans to Work Pays Off!

2010-08-17T14:11:00.000-07:00

On the last Friday of every month, Schnitzer West employees donate a minimum of $5 dollars to participate in “Jeans Friday”. Employees who donate are allowed to wear their favorite denim to work. The proceeds from this fun event are donated to local charity. This past July’s Charity was WPIG.

Schnitzer West, LLC is one of the Pacific Northwest's leading commercial real estate investment, development, and management companies. Quite a few past and present Schnitzer employees (Katie Patchin, Lori Chase, Alicia Stedman, Kym Haley and Megan Thomas) are WPIG members. Currently three Schnitzer employees sit on WPIG’s seven member board.

Thank you Schnitzer West for supporting WPIG!

News Update From the Bill and Pat Bali Fund

2010-08-09T15:30:00.000-07:00

WPIG recently received great news from our 2009 charity recipient. Bill Taylor, co-founder of the Bill and Pat Bali Fund, wrote that “WPIG’s group contribution to the Scholarship Fund is already making a difference. We have four girls with loans now attending university. More girls will be applying in the next couple of weeks.”

As you may remember, in 2009, WPIG supported the Bill and Pat Bali Fund. WPIG donated proceeds from our 2009 event to this organization's Scholarship Fund to help girls in Bali gain access to higher education beyond high school. WPIG also donated resources to the Bill and Pat Bali Fund, specifically earmarked for a young girl at the Untal-Untal orphanage, Amelia Febrina Merry Bogia, in order to support her aspiration to become a teacher. This support is inclusive of housing, clothing, food, education and health care. WPIG's members have also committed to communicating directly with Amelia through written letters as her sponsors.

Meet Member Lori Chase!

2010-07-26T09:06:00.000-07:00

Lori Chase is our featured member this month! Lori currently serves as Secretary on the Board of Directors and is also chair of the Administrative Committee. She joined WPIG in 2009 at the recommendation of a friend. Lori had been looking for an organization to involve herself in and was drawn to WPIG for it's small size and the chance to have an opportunity to help build something from the ground up. WPIG and Lori turned out to be a perfect match!

When Lori isn't working hard at her job in real estate development or for WPIG, she's training for a half marathon! Lori and a group of friends are going to complete 13-13.1 mile races this year. She's already finished 8 and has had fun traveling around the northwest to run them. Only 5 more to go!

Lori also loves to travel, work in her amazing vegetable garden, and enjoy time with family and friends in the San Juan Islands. WPIG is so lucky to have Lori as a member! Stay tuned for our next member profile... Alisha Eastman!

Non-profit & Volunteering

2010-06-15T17:04:00.000-07:00

The women of WPIG have been busy!

We are excited to announce that in April we were incorporated in the State of Washington as a non-profit. We are on our way to being recognized and operating as an official 501c3 non-profit organization!

March kicked off our first quarterly volunteer activity at West Side Baby. We sorted and shelved clothes and items of all sorts. This non-profit organization in West Seattle collects previously owned items for children and babies and distributes them free of charge to South King County families in need. For more information or if you would like to volunteer or donate to this great organization please visit their website at http://www.westsidebaby.org/

In May, Edna & Katie were a part of the spring Girls on the Run 5k program. Girls on the Run (GOTR) mission is to use the power of running to educate and prepare girls for a lifetime of self-respect and healthy living. 3rd – 5th grade girls are the target of this 10 week program with the finale being a 5k run to let the girls shine in their sense of accomplishment. Edna and Katie had their hands full being “running buddies” to Abby and Kate. To learn more about this program and how you can become a Running Buddy please visit http://www.girlsrun.org/

On a sunny beautiful day this June the Women of WPIG once again came together to volunteer at our 2010 Charity – Ryther Child Services. The morning was spent painting a toy shed and thoroughly cleaning all of the Ryther Vans!! This was quite the task considering that some of these vans hadn’t been cleaned in months. Just imagine what damage pre-teen & teen boys can do to the interior of a vehicle. We are looking forward to more volunteer activities and raising funds at our annual event in October for this great organization!

Meet Our Newest Members!

2010-04-13T21:11:00.000-07:00

WPIG expanded again this year and we are excited to introduce our newest members!

Nicole Demmon
Nicole is a graduate of the University of San Diego where she earned a bachelors degree in Business Administration and a certificate in American Humanics, a program that equips college students to become skilled professionals and leaders in America's nonprofit organizations. Nicole is currently attending law school at Seattle University. When she is not studying, Nicole enjoys volunteering in the community, traveling, and spending time with family and friends.

Becka Hardy-Becka graduated from Gonzaga University in 2004 with a BS in Exercise Science. She has been working in the human resources field in Seattle for the last 5 years. Becka has a passion for running and competes in half and full marathons. In her free time she loves traveling, the outdoors, cycling and spending time with friends and family.

Tiffani Lee
Tiffani currently works in wealth management at Morgan Stanley Smith Barney, in downtown Seattle. She graduated from the University of Washington in 2007 with a Bachelors of Arts in Communications and Political Science. Originally from Lake Oswego, OR, she enjoys skiing, running, travelling, cooking and trying new restaurants in the Seattle area.

Megan Thomas
Megan currently works in the Financial Planning & Analysis group of the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation focusing on Financial Services for the Poor. Prior to this job, she did financial analysis for Schnitzer West, a commercial real estate developer in Seattle. She also worked for four years in the hedge fund industry in New York. Megan holds an MBA from the Wharton School, an MA in International Studies, and a BA in Economics, all from the University of Pennsylvania. In her free time, she enjoys playing soccer, skiing, golfing, and also serves as a member of Hope Through Health, a nonprofit providing AIDS relief in Togo, West Africa.

Meghan Wagner – Meghan is a graduate of University of Washington with a B.A. in Political Science and Women Studies. In addition, she completed a Nonprofit Management certificate program at the University of Washington in 2008. Meghan is currently working as a Director of Development for the YMCA of Greater Seattle where her focus is on annual and capital fundraising campaigns. Meghan is the co-chair of the events committee and a member of the recruitment committee. In her spare time, Meghan enjoys running, skiing and epic games of Scrabble.

Julianna Yamamoto

Julianna D’Angelo Yamamoto CPA, is currently the Finance Manager of the Washington Wine Commission, a state agency dedicated to domestically and internationally raising awareness of Washington Wine. She is native to the Puget Sound region and started her career as a CPA at Clark Nuber, PS in Bellevue WA before joining the Washington Wine Commission at the beginning of 2009. She received her Bachelor’s degree in Business and her Masters of Accountancy degree both from Gonzaga University in Spokane, WA. She is also a member of the Washington State Society of CPA’s. In her free time Julianna seeks out opportunities to get lost in early 19th century literature or enjoy a musical; she also enjoys traveling, skiing, and spending time with her husband and family.

Artist / Event Photos

2009-10-29T17:40:00.000-07:00

Ying Ang
Julius Metoyer

Mark Bannag

Libby Ryan

Gerianne McMakin

Lauren Auten

Heather King

Zena McCoy

Erin Schedler

Gannon Weeks

Hanna Boone

Erika Eckert
Lindsay Neeley

Diana Liljelund

Sean Farragher

Leo Lam

Andy Patchin

Mustafah Abdulaziz

Lindsay Neeley

Pigture Perfect - Artist Information

2009-10-29T16:28:00.000-07:00

WPIG would like to thank everyone who attended and made PIGTURE PERFECT a smashing success! This would not have been possible without all of the fantastic artist donations. If you were out bid on a piece or would like more information about a particular artist we've listed below the art description and artist contact information.

Should you have any questions about the artist, venue, food, etc please contact WPIG at info@wpigseattle.org.

1. Gannon Weeks – Pre Date Ritual – Charcoal and Acrylic on Canvas – Located Downstairs above the bar. gannonweeks@gmail.com
2. Nathan Stoltenberg – The Pig and SPAM – One located by the coat check and the other at the top of the stairs. http://nstoltenberg.wordpress.com/
3. Alisha Eastman – Flower acrylic on canvas located on the way up the stairs. seattlecoug@gmail.com
4. Hanna Boone – Hummingbird getting nectar out of flower located on lower floor. http://www.hannaboone.com/
5. Lucrezia Bieler – Paper Cuttings – one upstairs and one downstairs – http://www.bieler-beerli.com/
6. Diana Liljelund – Forest Floor Giclee Print located downstairs on wood wall – dmlil@qwest.net

7. Erika Eckert – Bubbles – Dots on Velvet – http://www.erikaeckert.com/
8. Lindsay Neeley – Zebra upstairs and Pink Flower downstairs – lindseyneely@yahoo.com
9. Carol Ann Rasmussen – Specialized paper and inks – located before you went upstairs -http://www.carolannrasmussen.com/
10. Don Dahlke (donated by Nate Dickinson) – Taking Comfort – picture of the door in a tropical scene. Contact Nate Dickinson with Printing in the Pearl. http://www.pearl-printing.com/
11. Michael Peinado – coy fish located downstairs – acrylic finished giclee. m.peinado@comcast.net

12. Leo Lam – two photographs from Bhutan located downstairs on wood wall – http://www.leolam.com/

13. Sean Farragher – acrylic on canvas scenery located downstairs on wall - monseniorf@hotmail.com

14. Michael Walmlsey – photograph of Tour Eiffel upstairs. dstudio1@nwlink.com
15. Cynthia Streza – photograph of tulips and photograph of barn. cindys@homecms.com

16. Mark Banaag – spray paint on canvas at top of stairs on left. http://www.markbanaagart.com/

17. John Hoar – Concrete Stool – http://modrockdesign.blogspot.com/
18. Andy Patchin – 3 photographs from Buenos Aires, Argentina in black and white located upstairs by DJ. www.orcacreative.blogspot.com, apatchin@gmail.com
19. Scott Lacy – photograph of Fort Casey in high dynamic range. scottrlacy@gmail.com and www.flickr.com/scottrlacy
20. Matthew Craig – photographs located near DJ – one with flag and another with Asian lady in purple. matt@wearemjr.com
21. Irene Wood – Oil Painting on Canvas located upstairs to the right of the large metal piece. http://www.irenemachine.com/
22. Libby Ryan – kids flashcards and the two bird/tree collages. www.likeitlikeitlikeit.blogspot.com or libbyanderson10@gmail.com
23. Teri Foehl – Abstract recycled metal collage located upstairs. www.terifoehl.com or terifoehl@gmail.com
24. Ying Ang – photographs of women on the beach. www.yingangphoto.com or ying@yingangphoto.com
25. Mustafah Abdulaziz – photographs from Patagonia of cowboys upstairs near DJ. http://www.mustafahabdulaziz.com/. mustafah@mustafahabdulaziz.com
26. Julius Metoyer – photograph of lady at beach bent over (DJ Bend) – http://www.wearemjr.com/

27. Heather King – photographs from around the Seattle area and abroad upstairs on table – http://hpkphoto.com/

28. Zena McCoy – Red and black necklace upstairs – http://www.semilladesigns.com/home
29. Gerianne McMakin – Holiday Cards – gerriannem@yahoo.com
30. Kilipohi Chock – Surfer Picture – kilipohi@chockfuloflife.com
31. Andra Apellanes – Portrait of Michael Jackson – hipart31@yahoo.com
32. Erin Schedler – photograph of Pike Place Market – http://www.erinschedlerphoto.com/
33. Jon Osborne – Sets of Prints located upstairs – http://www.jonosborne.com/
34. Meghan Malone Farragher – Oil Pastel and Water Color kids piece located upstairs – meghan@blumecompany.com
35. Lauren Auten – earrings located upstairs – laurenauten@gmail.com
36. Alexa Melendez – Vintage Scarves with a modern update – alexa@ody.bz
37. Lauren Decaprio – Notecards with Wine glasses/Wine – http://www.papercutinvites.com/
38. Ashley Martin Liese – Notecards, Tags, Owl Painting and Union – all located upstairs – ashley.liese@gmail.com

Thank you

2009-10-20T19:53:00.000-07:00

PIGTURE PERFECT would not have been possible without help. We’d like to give special thanks to the following businesses for their kind donations & support!

ZAW – Artisan pizza in the raw
This yummy stuff is from scratch, made-to-order handcrafted pizza and salads

1424 E Pine St
http://www.zaw.com/

Linda’s Tavern on Capitol Hill
Always a crowd favorite for happy hour and beyond!

707 E Pine Street (Between Boylston Ave & Harvard Ave)

And the folks that so graciously gave us the space to host this fun event . . .

Sole Repair Shop
1001 E Pike St

http://www.solerepairshop.com/facility.html

PIGTURE PERFECT - Tickets!

2009-10-15T12:03:00.000-07:00

It's only a week away and tickets are going fast! Be sure to purchase yours at brown paper tickets for $25. http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/78880

Tickets purchased at the door will be $30.

See you all there!

Sneak Peak!

2009-10-07T17:26:00.001-07:00

Over 40 locally and nationally recognized artist will be showcased at the Pigture Perfect event on October 22nd.

Here is a sneak peak at a few of the pieces!

Gannon Weeks

Gannon typically paints large-scale figurative pieces in a loose style with a refreshingly raw quality to them. She specializes in gesture portraits that capture the essence of her subjects in a fluid but stylized manner. In Pre-date Ritual, the powerful use of line and shape complements the feminine subject matter and brings a sense of strength to the woman in the painting. Pre-date Ritual is a 36" x 48" charcoal and acrylic on canvas.

Leo Lam

The photographs from Bhutan were the results from a trip in 2008. The series was a beautiful documentary of this isolated country in the Himalayas, full of colors and happiness. While the focus was always on the people, it also showed a way of life that is so different from the western world, and the amount of happiness that came from such a radically different system. The series has been exhibited in galleries on the West Coast, and some licensed by major companies.

Teri Foehl

Teri is fascinated by the subtleness of things and aims to capture texture and light, creating movement. Her 36"x 48"abstract recycled metal collage Rectangular Silver on Silver caputures this subtleness of movement.

Nathan Stoltenberg

Nathan is a digital artist and designer. A modern-day Vanitas, this piece continues the historic tradition of artistic meditations on the temporal qualities of life and material good. Created especially for WPIG, the first of only ten to be made and are signed and numbered by the artist.

Don Dahlke

Taking Comfort is signed and numbered by the artist in a limited edition of 195 and it sells in fine art galleries around the US and the Caribbean for $1,500. This piece was generously donated by Nate Dickinson of Pearl Publishing Company.

Erika Eckert

Erika has fused her knowledge of painting with her expertise in working with velvets and silk screening. She uses acrylics while incorporating the vibrant colors and layering that she developed with her fabric pieces. Her piece “Magic Bubbles I”, a 20×16 Stretched Velvet shows the vibrant use of color.

Libby Ryan

Libby is a designer, designing events and installations internationally. Her work includes New York and London Fashion Weeks, press launches, tradeshow booths, retail events and set design. Children's Hand Illustrated Card Set is hand done with ink and watercolor. printed onto post-consumer recycled paper with matte laminate for durability. Cards come with a custom hand sewn organic cotton pouch.

Help WPIG just by dining out!

2009-10-06T12:25:00.000-07:00

WPIG is delighted to have the opportunity to partner with Celebrated Chefs! Celebrated Chefs is an organization that brings together over 80 of the finest restaurants in Seattle area with non-profits like ours. And the best part it is FREE to you and helps us! You need only to enroll and enjoy fine dining at participating Celebrated Chefs restaurants.

How does it work?
Enroll in the Celebrated Chefs program and designate WPIG as the organization you wish to support. Then simply dine out with the Visa, MasterCard, or AMEX you enroll as part of your membership. The restaurants donate 5% of your dining bill to our cause automatically!

Really no fee or cost to me?
Yes really! There is absolutely no enrollment fee or hidden costs to you! Once you sign up you will receive a Celebrated Chefs Cookbook containing a signature recipe from each participating restaurant. The cookbook is their way of introducing you to the wonderful fare you will experience when you dine at the area’s finest restaurants.

Free, but will my information be sold or given away?
No! Your information is never given to any third parties.

Is it secure?
Yes, Celebrated Chef is Visa, MasterCard and AMEX certified. All website communication is secured by the same technology used by banks to protect their customers.

Sign me up!

How to sign up for Celebrated Chefs?
Come to our Pigture Perfect event on October 22nd! Celebrated Chefs will be there to enroll you quickly and effortlessly and to give you a beautiful free cookbook.

Can’t make it to our event on October 22nd? Visit the Celebrated Chefs website and enroll today. . .

Visit the Celebrated Chefs website link below and click to support “WPIG – Women’s Philanthropic Investment Group, 196”. Then simply follow the directions to enroll. Once you have enrolled a cookbook will be mailed to you. (Please note - to avoid shipping costs for the cookbook please contact your wpig representative to sign you up).
https://www.celebratedchefs.com/GMFM/GiftMembershipFM_1.aspx

Questions? Write us at wpigseattle@gmail.com

PIGTURE PERFECT

2009-09-30T21:24:00.000-07:00

It’s less than a month away and the events committee has been hard at work planning our annual event - PIGTURE PERFECT!

Pigture Perfect is an art show / silent auction featuring over 40 local and nationally recognized artists. The event features a wide range of pieces – something for everyone!

Music by local DJ: Nate Fossness

Please join us at Sole Repair Shop, Thursday, October 22nd for this special event benefiting the Bill & Pat Bali Fund.

Doors open at 6:00. Enjoy our signature cocktail – the “Pigtini” while previewing the art, partake in our auction from 7:00 – 9:00 and then dance the night away until 11:00!

Advanced sale tickets may be purchased at Brown Paper Tickets for $25. Tickets purchased at the door will be $30.

We look forward to seeing you!

The Details. . .
When: Thursday, October 22nd from 6:00 – 11:00 pm
Where: Sole Repair Shop (the back room @ Quinn’s) - 1001 East Pike
Tickets: http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/78880

Meet the Board & General Members

2009-09-19T14:58:00.000-07:00

WPIG is comprised of a talented group of women. Their varying education and interests create a unique blend that fuels a passion for helping others. Here is a quick look at the Board and General Members.

Meet the Board!

Administrative Chair
Erin Olnon
Erin holds an M.Ed. in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies and works as an Academic Counselor. She keeps our group organized and on-task with her charm and patient attitude.

Events Chair
Katie Patchin
Katie is a graduate of University of Washington and currently works in marketing and leasing. Katie’s enthusiasm combined with her superb organizational skills make her a natural to head up the Events Committee and spearhead our Annual Fundraising event.

Finance Chair
Meagan Yogi
Meagan earned her Masters in Theological Studies from Harvard University and is a Chaplin with Evergreen Hospital. With Meagan’s careful research she is able to provide the group our investment options and keep our finances in check.

Marketing Chair
Ashley Liese
Ashley earned her BA in Fine Arts from Western Washington University. Ashley taught preschool, paints and currently is a happy mom to Finnegan & Frances. Her artistic nature and creativity help to shape and inspire the Marketing committee.

Philanthropy Chair
Meghan Malone Farragher
Meghan has a BA in Speech & Media Communications from the University of Sand Diego and is also certified in American Humanics, a national nonprofit leadership certification. Meghan is a steering committee member for the Cascade Farmers Market and a Building Operations Coordinator. She founded WPIG in 2008 with her wishful idea of blending smart young women, education, investment and philanthropy.

Recruitment Chair
Alisha Eastman
Alisha is a graduate of Washington State University and is currently pursuing her Masters in Social Work degree with an emphasis working with mothers and infants. She also works as a Patient's Account Specialist. Alisha’s encouraging and friendly attitude have helped to bring together a varied and fun group of women.

Meet the General Members!

Alicia Stedman
Alicia graduated from Gonzaga University with her BA in economics and an MBA in finance. She currently works in real estate development. Alicia is a member of the finance committee.

Edna Merrick Maddalena
Edna is an Education Programs Coordinator. She completed her undergraduate studies at Western Washington University and earned a Masters of Arts degree in Arts and Humanities Education from New York University. Edna is a member of the marketing committee.

Kym Haley
Kym graduated from the University of Colorado with a B.S. in Civil Engineering and an M.S. in Construction Management. She currently works in real estate development. Kym is on the events committee.

Lori Chase
Lori is a graduate of Washington State University with a B.A. in Political Science/Public Administration. She works in real estate development. Lori is on the marketing committee.

wpig: What is it and who are we?

2009-09-09T17:59:00.000-07:00

You may ask – what’s with the funny name? “wee pig” as we call ourselves, stands for Women’s Philanthropic Investment Group.

Our inspiration? Create a fun way to learn about investing but with a twist of doing something greater than ourselves and helping out our community. So in January 2008 a small group of women in Seattle assembled to commence the journey.

Our philanthropic mission? To help women and children with their basic needs - whether it be emotional, developmental or physical and get them to a place of self sufficiency.

How do we do this? We work towards our goals through smart investment practices, donations, volunteering and our annual event.

Come back soon to learn more about our board & general members!