The Spirit of Women Fund is about women helping women.
It was started by a Chase woman, Barbara Maher who is passionate about supporting other women in her community. Her fund is one of over 160 funds held by the BC Interior Community Foundation.
“I was pleased to be able to award the first $500 bursary to a very deserving graduate of Chase Secondary School, Sherrilyn Towes,” said Maher. “Sherrilyn is now registered at TRU and I am happy to assist her with her education and following through with her dreams.”
Maher felt that some women were falling through the cracks – they may have a dream, but did not have enough money or support to follow through with their dreams. Many years ago, Maher got the support she needed by giving back to her community through volunteerism and learning skills that helped her on her new career path.
The Spirit of Woman fund provides two bursaries every year; one for a young woman graduating from high school, the other for a woman, 30 and older who would like to resume her education. Volunteer work is one of the requirements of the bursary.
On March 7 and 8, Maher is holding the third Annual International Woman’s Day at the South Thompson Inn and Conference Centre. This event raises funds to support The Spirit of Women Fund. As well, Maher is taking nominations for a woman from the region who would benefit from attending the conference but can’t afford the ticket price.
If you would like to nominate someone, contact Maher at fund@thespiritofwomen.com.
If you are interested in supporting the fund, you can donate online by visiting the BC Interior Community Foundation website at www.bcinteriorcommunityfoundation.ca or call the office at 250-434-6995.