This report was a germ of an idea in February 2009. Eleven months later it has grown into an inspiring roadmap to change the status of women and girls in our community.

We acknowledge with gratitude the leadership of Angela Williams, Chair of the Women and Girls Fund Research Committee for her unwavering commitment throughout this process. We also could not have completed our research without dedicated committee members, Marsha Zaidman, Lynn Simms and Cathy Wack.

We also acknowledge with appreciation for thoughtful insights and editing from Jacqueline Wack King, Stephanie Monroe, Kim Smart, Lyn Phillips, and special thanks to our intern Mary Cadwallender.

Our hats are off to Tina Jackson (www.tinajackson.net) for the incredible photography in this report and the creative talents of designers, Louise Spangler and Neil Glancy.

The Women and Girls Executive Committee: Mona Albertine, Chair, Ana Garcia Chichester, Susan Hansen, Mary Jane O’Neill, Linda Sealy, Cathy Wack, Angela Williams and Teri McNally, Executive Director of the Community Foundation.

Become a Charter Member: Your donation today will help build the endowment fund to allow larger grants to be made in the future. Gifts are fully tax deductable as charitable contributions to the extent allowed by the law. To donate, please visit: www.cfrrr.org

Spread the word: tell your friends about the fund, invite them to join in the effort, host an event to teach others about women and girls issues.