Women in Philanthropy provides an evolving forum for women to come together to discuss philanthropy and their work in the nonprofit sector. Sponsored activities are no-cost, purely educational and solicitation-free; Women in Philanthropy is a neutral convener whose goal is to shed light on compelling local issues and offer informed perspectives.
 Women in Philanthropy meets regularly, alternating between roundtable discussions on topics brought forth by participants and "field trips" to visit local nonprofit organizations working to improve and enrich our community, our society, and our world. Programs have featured speakers from various organizations and have included historic preservation, the arts, education, health, and human services. Occasionally, WIP invites speakers of national prominence to present to the group. Group sizes range from 20 to 80 participants, depending on the program. It is an informal, come-as-you-are opportunity to share thoughts, ideas, challenges, and concerns with other women who are interested in philanthropy. There is no charge for attending Women in Philanthropy events.
“WIP is an opportunity to learn from women who invest their time and resources in community issues and the many non-profit organizations seeking solutions to improve the quality of life for all in our communities.” Patty Bliss | 
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 Light, warmth and moisture are necessary for successful gardening. For encouraging philanthropy, education, values, and passion are essential.
At the Santa Barbara Foundation recently, more than 50 women came to a free forum to talk about how to promote the concept of giving back. Four panelists and a moderator participated in a lively discussion with the long title: “Philanthropy: It Doesn’t Happen by Accident….Developing the Next Generation of Philanthropists.”
The panelists focused on how to succeed with a philanthropic education that reaches across generations - from 8-year-olds to 40-somethings, to baby boomers. A recurring theme was the importance of starting early. Local third grade teachers, UCSB sorority sisters, young professionals, and grandmothers are playing the role of philanthropic flag-bearers. All carry the same message: be generous with your time, share what you can, and teach others to care.
Santa Barbara County is well-known for the generosity of its citizens. Now we know why!
Pictured From L-R: Carol Palladini, founder of the Women’s Fund of Santa Barbara, Rachel Steidl, former Katherine Harvey Fellow, Lois Abbott, UCSB Alumna, Gamma Phi Beta Advisor, and volunteer, Jane Habermann, Foundation Trustee and panel moderator, and Louise Fisher, former Director of the Teacher’s Network and Administrator of the Care & Share II Program.
Woman in Philantrophy
At a recent Women in Philanthropy luncheon, Jane Close Conoley, Ph.D., Dean and Professor at the Gevirtz Graduate School of Education, inspired the audience with remarks entitled, “Innovations in Education.” Erudite, professional, and personable, Dean Conoley explained that the country continues to use the “industrial age” model of education that served us well until the mid-1900s. The good news is that we are in the midst of a revolution in teaching methods! No longer are children merely tested for potential; they are now measured for the type of learning that will serve them best. While current studies indicate that 40 per cent of a student’s achievement is likely due to the skill level of the teacher, one must not discount the importance of parental involvement. Children whose parents value education and model lifelong learning are more likely to succeed. Dean Conoley is a case in point. Although her father had modest beginnings - he became the family breadwinner at age 12, driving a milk truck in New York City, and stopped his education at the eighth grade - he nonetheless encouraged his children to learn and succeed. “My Dad was my hero,” said Dean Conoley. Women in Philanthropy is the Santa Barbara Foundation’s free forum for women to discuss philanthropy and their work in the nonprofit community.
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What is the Women's Fund of Santa Barbara?
The Women’s Fund of Santa Barbara is a Fund through which member donations are granted to nonprofit agencies to meet critical needs of women, children and families in the greater Santa Barbara area. |
