Thanksgiving 2019: What We’re Grateful For
Thoughts, Reflections, and Gratitude: Why We’re Grateful to Be Part of The Women’s Foundation of Colorado
During this season of gratitude, The Women’s Foundation of Colorado is grateful for the diverse women and men who are part of our community of giving. For Thanksgiving, our staff shared why we’re thankful, today and everyday of the year, to be part of WFCO and its mission of catalyzing community to advance and accelerate economic opportunities for Colorado women and their families.
“I’m deeply grateful EVERYDAY for the opportunity to work with and on behalf of Colorado women and their families with the WFCO team.”
– Lauren Y. Casteel, president and CEO
“I am grateful for the opportunities to meet so many smart, passionate, diverse women from throughout the state. This includes participants from our grantees’ programs, trustees, regional committee members, and more. I feel that I learn something new every day at The Women’s Foundation through the women that I come across.”
– Lisa Christie, senior director of communications
“I have a daily gratitude practice modeled after this quote by author Robert Brault “Enjoy the little things, for one day you may look back and realize they were the big things.” As someone who is often dreaming about the future this practice keeps me grounded – so despite my short time on staff at WFCO I could name a whole host of things to be grateful for. Here are my top two: I am grateful to be on a team with three incredible women that I learn something new from every day. I am grateful to work with grantee partners who are constantly doing the uncomfortable and hard work of centering the communities they serve above the needs of funders.”
– Mariana Diaz, programs coordinator
“I’m thankful for the opportunities that my granddaughters will have that my daughters had but that weren’t available to every woman in their generation and for the part that The Women’s Foundation of Colorado plays in securing their future.”
– John Dobey, chief financial officer
“I am grateful to work for a Foundation that supports and aligns with my core values as a woman, mom, wife and friend.”
– Renee Ferrufino, vice president of development
“I am grateful for all the people who give their time, talent and treasure to The Women’s Foundation. It’s incredible that people with such busy lives find ways to share time with us to help move The Foundation forward. Everything we do is because of you and we appreciate it!”
– Mallory Garner-Wells, statewide engagement manager
“Everyday, I am beyond thankful that I get to walk into the offices of WFCO and greet the wonderful people that are my colleagues and engage in the meaningful work that we do to ensure that all women in Colorado are thriving. It’s a beautiful, energizing feeling to be surrounded by people who are all so passionate about the mission and give themselves wholly to making this state the best it can be for women and their families. I’m grateful to everyone – staff, donors, volunteers, grantees, and WFCO supporters who show up for this organization and this work day in and day out. Progress is made and real change occurs because of all of you! Thank you!
– Erica Jackson, digital marketing specialist
“I am grateful for all the inspiring women I have met through my work at the Foundation.”
– Colleen LaFontaine, director of development
“During this time of reflection and thanks giving, I am most grateful for the opportunities my daughter has as a woman. While I realize there is so much to still improve upon, she is aware her future is based on what she wants and not the limitations imposed by others. She understands and is willing to use her voice to help those that need it and stand up for what she knows is right. I am so happy to see this and can’t be prouder of her.”
– Tracy Langworthy, staff accountant & office manager
“I’m grateful to work alongside colleagues, nonprofits, and donors who are creating a better future for all Colorado women and girls. Every day I am inspired by the WFCO team’s dedication, our innovative grantees, the hardworking women they serve, and the generosity of our donors. We can do so much more together than any of us could do alone.”
– Camisha Lashbrook, donor relations manager
“Working at WFCO has provided me with a sense of belonging and security that I have not had before. I think it is due to the fact that I’m surrounded by such a supportive team.”
– Karen Mandel, development & database manager
“Every day, I am grateful for the opportunity to work for equity and justice with dedicated, innovative, collaborative partners across Colorado and the incredible WFCO team of staff and volunteers!”
– Louise Myrland, vice president of programs
“I am grateful for the opportunities to meet so many smart, passionate, diverse women from throughout the state. This includes participants from our grantees’ programs, trustees, regional committee members, and more. I feel that I learn something new every day at The Women’s Foundation through the women that I come across.”
– Alison Friedman Phillips, director of programs
“I’m new to the non-profit sector, as well as WFCO. I’m learning about philanthropy daily and it so inspiring. The best part of my job is hearing the stories from the women in our community that have been positively impacted. I am thankful for being a part of a highly talented team that is mission driven, committed, and who cares deeply about making a difference in the community.”
– Beatrice Rodriguez, executive & board coordinator
“I am grateful to work for an organization that aligns with my personal values and thankful that women like myself, my mom, and sisters have access to more opportunity because of the amazing work of WFCO.”
– Kristina “Krissy” Vaio, development officer & events manager
