WEST CHESTER, PA — The Fund for Women and Girls announced the awardees for its 7th Annual Champions of Change Breakfast which will be held on Wednesday, October 25, 2023, from 7:30 AM to 9 AM at The Farmhouse at People’s Light.
The Fund’s Champion of Change Breakfast recognizes individuals and organizations committed to women’s economic advancement and equity in the workplace, nominated by members of their community. The Fund’s goal is to increase awareness about the disparities and challenges that women face in seeking economic and professional advancement and equity.
Executive Director Kim Andrews says, “The Fund celebrates not just the extraordinary achievements of individuals, corporations, and nonprofits advancing women in the workplace, but the unstoppable spirit that drives them to break barriers and champion change.” The Fund is proud to honor these exceptional champions who embody this spirit:
Gladys Black “Woman of Distinction” Awardee: Susan Fiorentino, Esq., who has dedicated her career to the safety and education of women and girls. Her research focuses on legal issues relevant to women in the workplace, including pay equity and sexual harassment. The Fund celebrates her work as a lawyer, professor, researcher, speaker, volunteer, and First Lady of West Chester University with this award named for long-time Fund supporter Gladys Black.
Champions of Change Corporate Awardee: Countryside Consulting, Inc. The Fund is recognizing Countryside Consulting, for its unwavering commitment to empowering women. Under the leadership of Founder and President, Louise Schorn Smith, the company has built a culture of support, implementing flexible scheduling and other family friendly policies. Countryside Consulting has fostered a workplace where women excel.
New this year, The Fund introduces an award focused on a nonprofit workforce development agency and is proud to partner with WSFS Cares Foundation to sponsor this award. The winner of the WSFS Nonprofit Workforce Development Award will be awarded a $1,000 grant by The Fund for Women and Girls, recognizing their work in breaking down barriers to employment and economic achievement.
WSFS Nonprofit Workforce Development Awardee: Chester County OIC is making a difference in workforce development.  CCOIC has demonstrated its dedication to supporting women from diverse communities, paving the way for sustainable employment and financial independence.  Most of the women participating in CCOIC’s programs have experienced poverty, justice involvement (80%), or domestic violence.  Led by Joyce Chester, CCOIC breaks down barriers to workforce involvement for women by providing training, education, and supportive services like childcare, toiletries, workforce clothing, driver’s education, expungement services, personal mentorship, and professional coaching.
The Fund invites the public to celebrate and honor these outstanding awardees on Wednesday, October 25th at the Champions of Change Breakfast. For more information about the event and to secure your spot, visit www.thefundcc.org.
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