The power of collective giving was on full display once again as 170 women gathered on October 13 at the Timberlake Lodge in Grand Rapids for the second Giving Event of 100+ Women Who Care – Itasca Area. The growing philanthropic movement continues to make a meaningful impact by uniting local women to raise funds for nonprofits serving the Itasca community.

Each attendee contributed $100 or more and voted to support one of three nominated organizations: KAXE Northern Community Radio, North Country Trail Association, and the Itasca Area Cancer Crisis Fund. Representatives from each nonprofit had three minutes to share their mission and community impact.

Kathy Pliska, who nominated and spoke on behalf of KAXE/KBXE, delivered the winning presentation. The station received $17,425 in donations from attendees. In a touching gesture, an anonymous donor matched the event’s funds—directing the matching amount to the Itasca Area Cancer Crisis Fund, which received the second-highest number of votes.

Before the nominations began, Colleen Chapin, Executive Director of Advocates for Family Peace—the recipient of the first 100+ Women Who Care event in May—shared how their $17,100 donation had been put to work. The funds provided transportation, housing assistance, down payments, telephones, and other critical resources to help women safely transition away from abusive situations.

Event organizers say the continued success of 100+ Women Who Care – Itasca Area shows the power of community collaboration. “Every time we gather, the energy in the room is electric,” said Mindy Nuhring of the Grand Rapids Area Community Foundation. “It’s incredible to see women from across the area come together, give generously, and make a tangible difference right here at home.”