On average, 15% of people in the Triangle are living at or below the federal poverty line. That number is higher for women, and the gaps are even wider for women of color and single parents. Women continue to be disproportionately affected as it relates to health, housing, employment, and education, but when they are empowered and have access to the resources they need, women thrive against all odds. And that impacts the entire community – our kids, the economy, and our region’s overall wellbeing.
Author and renowned educator Dr. Johnnetta Cole will serve as the keynote speaker to start a conversation around what challenges and barriers prevent women from succeeding, what incredible impact women make when they are empowered and mobilized, and what we all can do – men and women – to make a difference for the future. Dr. Cole holds a Ph.D. in anthropology with a specialization in African Studies from Northwestern University. During her impressive career, she served as the president of both of the historically Black colleges for women in the US – Spelman College and Bennett College – a distinction she alone holds.
“What can we do to create a region of opportunity for all women? We know from the data that women face great challenges in our community, and we don’t have all the answers,” said Lori O’Keefe, President and CEO. “The best part about What Matters each year is that we have a space to have a dialogue, to listen to each other, and learn from one another. Taking that time to find out what’s needed, and how we can successfully – together – make change, is so important.”
Tickets are on sale for the lunch, which includes optional opening sessions with local experts, at the Foundation’s website at
www.trianglecf.org.
Triangle Community Foundation inspires and mobilizes giving, leadership, and action in the Triangle region of North Carolina. By working together with donors and nonprofits to address critical community issues, we envision a vibrant Triangle that ensures everyone thrives. Since 1983, the Foundation has been committed to this work, and with the help of our generous family of donors, each year we grant over $25 million back into the community to make a difference. Learn more and join us at
www.trianglecf.org.