Washington BPW

It’s no secret that our BPW sisters come from all walks of life. Each of us with our own unique journeys and perspectives on more topics than can be named. This allows us to share lived experiences and help one another not only in work, but in all aspects of life. We share our stories, lift each other up during difficult times, encourage growth, support each other in the causes close to our hearts, and build each other up to be better today than we were yesterday. Sometimes, this means showing up for causes that may be difficult due to our own experiences, but we still show up to support our sisters. This month we attended two events that many of us have personal ties to, domestic violence and su***de prevention.

We participated in the Domestic Violence Services of Southwestern PA 10th Annual Peace from DV Walk and met with community members that work hard to ensure that those experiencing domestic violence have resources available to them and somewhere to go when they need it the most. Without these resources, the difficulties faced when leaving that situation can seem impossible, hopeless even. We’re proud to stand beside these survivors and the community members who work so tirelessly to bring awareness and resources to them in their moments of need.

We also participated in the American Foundation for Su***de Prevention - Western PA Chapter Out of Darkness Su***de Prevention walk. We offered information and a warm welcome to community members who have felt that particular sting, yet continue to spread awareness about this important topic. Over 200 people walked the course to the Washington Park memorial garden to remember loved ones lost and show those struggling that you are not alone. The pain you feel is carried by many shoulders and there are those who do care and need you here tomorrow. We were honored to walk beside you to bring awareness to this cause and are here to support you.

Thank you to those who supported these events and all the volunteers who worked to make them a success. Without you, the world would be a much darker place, and your light truly does make a difference.

BPW community, sisters, families and friends..

Wishing all a very Merry Christmas and a Happy Hanukkah!

May your families be calm, your food be delicious, and your blessings abundant!

When we treat domestic violence as a private or family matter that should stay behind closed doors, we make people who experience it feel even more isolated. If you know someone experiencing domestic violence, you can let them know that free, confidential, and non-judgmental help is available. DVSSP's trained advocates can be reached 24/7 at 800-791-4000.

Over the weekend we had the pleasure of joining our BPW President and sister, Chris Blaine, at the 2024 Zonta Club of Washington County Rose Day Celebration. She received the Zonta Rose Day Award for Business for all her hard work and community dedication.

Chris started her career as a high school English, theater and public speaking teacher. She served as the public relations Director for the Meadows Racetrack before finding her biggest career adventure in the newly founded Washington Wild Things baseball team, where she currently serves as CEO.

She has made a huge impact on community organizations, including multiple United Way Committees, the Washington County Chamber of Commerce, Try Again Homes, Washington County Tourism Promotion, American Cancer Society, Saint James Parish, AAUW, and is currently serving her fourth term as the District President of Business and Professional Women Washington Chapter. She was a Washington County Athena Award finalist twice, won the BPW Individual Development Speaking Contest on the district and state levels, and won the Above and Beyond Award from the Washington Greene County Chapter of the Pennsylvania Sports Hall of Fame.

She has had and continues to have a huge impact on our community, and we are so happy to see her hard work and dedication recognized in this way.

Congratulations to our sister on this well deserved award!

Thank you to everyone that came to our BPW author event! Author Mary Frailey Calland explained her entire process writing Consecrated Dust: A Novel of the Civil War North, and it was fascinating. The time and effort she put in for historical accuracy in this novel was a job in and of itself. Thank you Mary, for taking time to talk with us and enlighten us on our local history.