Nancy K.

Words of thanks are not enough to express my delight in participating in your “Swell” concept. The gathering of women in discussion of what their interests are which then leads to commitments within our community and beyond was informative and inspiring. Our group arrived to your home not knowing one another and yet left connected via interests and coincidences. Izumi M. a ballet dancer, Whitney S. who lives in our neighborhood, Sophie S. whose husband and mine worked together on legal cases, and Emily D. our enthusiastic and youngest group member. In this time when nonprofits and cultural arts organizations are forced to deal with massive cuts in federal funding, it leads to many of these institutions struggling for survival. The ripple effect of giving in whatever form (networking, informing, spreading the word, volunteering, devoting time to working on behalf of causes and of course philanthropic donations) all contribute to the goal of keeping in existence organizations that bring communities together. The need for whatever form of generosity one can give is crucial.

For me it’s networking and building awareness on behalf of my passions that focus on art, music and dance. As a board member of Eisenhower Dance Detroit I am particularly aware of how funding cuts have made it essential to work on behalf of the company in terms of networking, making connections to help in fund raising, spreading the word for upcoming performances, while helping to build audience attendance. Swell groups are an invitation to awareness of causes that each of us are drawn to, have a connection with, focus on, support while highlighting why we do so. Here women’s generosity will serve to make a difference. Of course the “Swellest” of all is our friend Julie, the leader and developer of this concept whose purpose is to to grow, branch out, make a difference and reach populations far and wide. May the wave effect of women’s commitments continue onward . . .

Irises

watercolor

Nancy K.