YWCA Central Alabama Hosts 16th Annual Purse & Passion Luncheon
BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — The YWCA Central Alabama hosted its 16th Annual Purse & Passion Luncheon on April 9, at the Sheraton Birmingham Hotel. More than 1,400 women and men from all over the region attended, helping to raise critical funds for the YWCA’s programs that serve women, children and families in need.
Purse & Passion, the YWCA’s largest fundraiser, has generated more than $5 million since 2000. Funding is provided by corporate and foundation sponsors, as well as contributions from guests the day of the event. More than 120 dedicated table captains invited friends and family members to help support the mission of the YWCA. The agency provides a broad array of domestic violence services; child development programs for children from homeless and working poor families; safe, decent, affordable housing; and social justice programs.
The theme of this year’s event was Sweet 16, and guests were inspired by the stories of two women who, with the help of the YWCA’s services, have rebuilt their lives. Those in attendance also learned about programs designed to help children and youth forge futures that are safe, strong and secure.
Co-chairs for the 2015 luncheon were Lajuana Bradford, Lisa Burton, Lynn LaRussa and DeValerie Williams. Purse & Passion Steering Committee members were Barbara Blair, Dalton Blankenship, Maggie Brooke, Myla Calhoun, Paige Daniel, April Deal, Jill Deer, Jennifer Evans, Gillian Goodrich, Brenda Hackney, Kathryn Harbert, Sheryl Kimerling, Ricki Kline, Lisa Miller, Dot Mueller, Carla Roberson, Valerie Thomas, Melinda Underwood and Debbie White.
The YWCA is grateful to our 90 corporate sponsors, who so generously support our efforts to create a more caring community. Sponsors include Belk, Inc.; Harbert Management Corporation; Alabama Power Company; Protective Life Corporation; Red Diamond; Regions Financial Corporation; Alabama Media Group; Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama; and Publix Super Markets Charities, Inc.
