Philanthropic Focus: Honoring International Women’s Day
When my husband and I founded The Bob & Renee Parsons Foundation, TBRPF, our goal was to take our philanthropic work to a whole new level, through a more direct and meaningful channel. We aim to reach low-income, underserved populations and support causes often overlooked by mainstream philanthropy.
With the help of our TBRPF team, we provide grants to a number of non-profit organizations. Our community partners are combating issues in medical care, disaster relief, homelessness and education. They also provide support to youth, veterans, military families and those healing the invisible wounds of PTSD. I am grateful to be able to play a role in our partner’s success.
One of the causes I am most passionate about is helping women and girls succeed. Opportunity is a key element of success and I feel compelled to support and help create opportunities for the next generation of female leaders.
Around International Women’s Day, I find myself reflecting on the tireless work non-profit organizations are undertaking to change lives of women in their communities. International Women’s Day is about recognizing women’s achievements – and I intend to do just that!
To celebrate and give appreciation to some of these amazing organizations, I have highlighted some of our partners to raise awareness for the impactful work they do on a daily basis.
Girls Scouts- Arizona Cactus Pine
This council is dedicated to helping girls build character, courage, and confidence, by promoting inclusivity and leadership. Along with weekly activities and cookie sales, GSACPC boasts four camp locations, each with specialized programs. Camp Maripai offers horseback riding, Shadow Rim Ranch has rock climbing, Willow Springs features ceramics classes and Parsons Leadership Center hosts STEM activities and swimming lessons.
Chrysalis
This organization offers emergency shelter, transitional housing, counseling, job development resources, legal assistance, and more to victims of domestic violence. In addition, they operate a 24/7 domestic violence hotline. Chrysalis is helping women survivors regain control of their lives and rebuild toward a better future.
Boys & Girls Club of the Valley
The Phoenix team is a leading voice for youth in our community, working directly with young people to build character, adopt healthier lifestyles, and achieve academic success. With more than 25 locations in the Phoenix area and more than 16,000 youth members, they play an enormous role in the lives of the children in our communities. I annually seek out support from BGCAZ to help select young women to receive the Renee Parsons Girls Leadership Award.
Maggie’s Place
This non-profit provides shelter and critical resources for at-risk and homeless pregnant women, as well as new mothers and their infants. Through four Arizona shelters, their staff provides immersive therapy and infant safety programs, 24/7 on-site care and material resources such as clothing and bus passes. The support from Maggie’s Place allows these women to become self-sufficient and reach their goals. With an increase of people experiencing homelessness, Maggie’s Place plays a pivotal role in the community.
I am grateful and humbled to partner with each of these incredible organizations and in awe of the work they do for women in our communities.