Happy Veteran’s Day
We have just finished the three casino nights in Austin, Dallas and Houston, and I am thrilled to say that we were able to raise over $30,000 and had over 300 people attend the events in the three cities. Huge thanks to our sponsors who made the events possible, to all those of you who came out and supported us, to our Philanthropy Committee Chairs (Marianne Dwight, Somer Washington, Carter Wimberly and Raluca Dalea), and a special thanks to Heather Sauber for organizing us all!
As you know, the money we have raised goes to support the six girls’ schools across Texas started by the Foundation for the Education of Young Women. Our money goes to support the college dreams of the underserved young students and change the trajectory their lives are one from one of poverty to a way out through education and a career. So thank you all for your support of these amazing schools. If you were unable to attend, but would like to contribute, you may do so by visiting our GIVE page https://txwsw.com/give/
An article in the NY Times this past week “Standing Up for the Rights of New Fathers” details one new father’s lawsuit against his employer, Time Warner. His suit argues that female employees of Time Warner are entitled to 10 weeks maternity leave, and new fathers are not given any paid time off at all. This is the first suit of its kind in the US, and I think it will prove to be a game changer for women. For women to achieve equal opportunity at work, having children needs to be seen as a family issue, not a woman’s issue. I have heard of many women of childbearing years being passed over for promotion or simply not hired because it was likely that they would have a baby and either quit or step back too much to be effective. When childcare becomes the reality for both parents, it levels the playing field for women and ultimately will begin to open doors that have previously been closed.
My favorite quote from the article: And when men take time off after the birth of a child, it can have lasting ripple effects. Not only does it help create a connection with the child, but it sets the stage for a more egalitarian division of labor at home over the longer term. It could also help equalize the perception when women take time off. “If it is true that women will not be equal in the workplace until men are equal at home,” Ms. Calvert added, “it has greater repercussions as well.”
Below are the upcoming events through the end of the year – take a moment to check them out and sign up! I look forward to seeing you all at an event soon.
Kind regards,
Christine