G.R.O.W. Spring Gathering celebrates philanthropic women, grant awards
MONROE — Commemorating the spirit of generosity, empowerment, and community impact, the Community Foundation of Monroe County recently hosted its annual G.R.O.W. Spring Gathering at the River Raisin National Battlefield Park.
Emceed by Sue Vanisacker, the 2023 G.R.O.W. Philanthropist of the Year, the evening profiled significant achievements of local philanthropy, the announcement of this year's G.R.O.W. grant recipients and the 2024 Philanthropist of the Year Award.
"The G.R.O.W. Spring Gathering is a celebration of the remarkable generosity and dedication of our community's philanthropic women," Kathy Russeau, executive director of the Community Foundation of Monroe County, said in a written statement. "It's inspiring to see how their contributions are making a meaningful difference in the lives of women and children in Monroe County."
Guests learned about the mission and impact of G.R.O.W.(Giving Represents Our Women), a philanthropic women's group dedicated to supporting organizations that uplift women and children in Monroe County.
Detective Sergeant Jeff Hooper, from the Monroe County Sheriff's Investigative Services Division, delivered the keynote address.
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Hooper shared insights into the work conducted by the VIPER (Violent Internet Predator & Exploitation Response) Task Force, shedding light on efforts to combat human trafficking and ensure internet safety in the community.
The impact of G.R.O.W. on the community was emphasized by this year's grant awards, totaling $10,000 distributed across two critical projects.
The Child Advocacy Network of Monroe County received funding for their JAYDE project, addressing the needs of children facing the trauma of being removed from their homes, while the Monroe County Opportunity Program was awarded for their Housing for Homeless Youth Project.
Additionally, Monroe Puente was granted $5,000 from the Community Foundation of Monroe County’s CREED (Community Foundation’s Coalition for Racial Equality, Equity, and Diversity) fund to support their Folkloric Dance program.
Kristin Irwin was named 2024 G.R.O.W. Philanthropist of the Year.
According to Russeau, Irwin’s contributions and leadership exemplify the true spirit of philanthropy and community impact, making her a deserving recipient of the Philanthropist of the Year award.
For more information about G.R.O.W. and how to join, visit Grow Monroe or contact the Community Foundation of Monroe County at cfmonroe.org/contact.
This article originally appeared on The Monroe News: G.R.O.W. Spring Gathering celebrates philanthropic women, grant awards
