Giving Matters is a new initiative designed to offer area women a resource - both educational and inspirational - in all matters related to giving.  The organization's purpose is not associated with any particular "cause" but is intended to build awareness and mentor women n philanthropy overall.  Our goal is to provide opportunities to educate the ignite any woman to realize her hidden leadership potential to champion her own personal cause/s with exuberance.  We believe connecting women to other women who have traveled their own journey of financial literacy and passion is key to helping them in the life changing experience that is givng back.

Our mission is to assist women of all ages in realizing the power of their unique abilities and talents so they can produce a positive impact in their community through philanthropy.

We envison that throught he reserouces and programs of Giving Matters, we can help all women learn to take control of their destiny and become agents for change wherever they are.

WHO WE ARE:
- Philanthropists & Volunteers
- Fundraising Executives
- Financial Professionals
- Professional Business Executives
- Marketing Professionals
- Women Who Desire Education & Resources in the Area of Philanthropy

WHAT WE DO:
- Connecting Women to Philanthropic Resources & Mentoring Opportunities
- Build Bridges Between Interested Women & Worthy Community Causes
- Create Passion in Philanthropy
- Raise Awareness of the Power of Philanthropy to make a difference in our lives

Our 2009 Event:
October 13th was a gem of a day for women and philanthropy in southwest Florida.  More than 345 supporters of arts and culture, social services and education, animals and the environment gathered at Michael's on East for Giving Matters second annual luncheon to celebrate women and their role in philanthropy in our region.
 
Co-chairs (and Giving Matters Steering Committee Members) Dottie Baer Garner and Chris Pfahler worked their magic to create a sparkling event, complete with jewels on the tables and an elegant original necklace by Helen Ringus of Wearable Art to be won.  Judi Gallagher, media and hospitality consultant, served as emcee, adding her warm and humor to the day.  Giving Matters Co-Founders Susan Olsen and Faith Pridmore worked tirelessly to orchestrate a beautiful event that came together flawlessly.  Grace Carlson of Carlson Design Studio created the beautiful invitations and programs and the slide show of the centerpieces for the Gems of Philanthropy luncheon.
 
The tables were decked out with original centerpieces provided by more than 30 local non-profits which each had a chance to tell their stories in a 15" circle of celebration.  Judi Gallagher applauded the originality and cost effectiveness of this great idea -- a testimony to creator B.J. Creighton, Giving Matters Steering Committee member who originated the idea.
 
The audience quieted down quickly as keynote speaker Debra Jacobs took the stage, promising to share the story of philanthropist Dorothy Patterson, but also letting us know, with her usual wit, that it was not yet time to reveal the goals, giving guidelines or deadlines for the new Patterson Foundation.  Instead, Debra shared a very personal look at Dorothy Patterson and the events in her life that informed and motivated her philanthropic approach to life. 
 
The Gems of Philanthropy Luncheon was made possible through the generous lead sponsorship of the Sarasota-Manatee Jewish Federation and additional sponsorship support from