Uplift Women! Amplify Community!

Happy March Goal Getter!

Women make things happen! So, as this month dedicated to our history kicks off, I’m reminded of our enduring grit and resilience. To me, these talents are exemplified by our beloved ancestor, Shirley Chisholm. As the first African-American woman elected to Congress and to campaign for the Democratic Party presidential nomination, she said it best:

“You don't make progress by standing on the sidelines, whimpering and complaining,” she once said. “You make progress by implementing ideas."

As a board member of Planned Parenthood North Central States Foundation and Jeremiah Program, two organizations that center on women's needs, I feel a vital link to Chisholm’s legacy. I was fortunate to convene with both groups in the last few weeks during these challenging times, and it renewed my commitment to fighting for all women to have access to opportunity and healthcare and to thrive.

I walked the runway—yes, I’m a model now—for PPNCS Foundation’s Ready or Hot fashion show. This annual fundraiser supports the organization’s mission to support women’s reproductive rights. We raised $110,000 this year!

I am proud to be the new Chair of the national governing board for the Jeremiah Program, which addresses poverty two generations at a time by supporting single moms and their children with education and housing and empowering them to dream. This week, I spent two days with my fellow board members from across our nine sites. We gathered for our third Summit X, with over 1,500 moms meeting in Minnesota to build community and hear from incredible speakers.

The highlight for me is always listening to pitches from Spark Tank finalists: Nine moms with entrepreneurial visions who are working to bring their business ideas to life. The winner receives $10,000 to support their business along with continued mentorship.

As an introvert, being in big groups pushes me out of my comfort zone. Yet, the antidote to our current moment seems to be community and turning towards one another. This month and every month, I encourage you to seek out ways to uplift and amplify women.

Coach’s Corner

How much time do you dedicate to networking? The people in your professional circle can add a lot of value, so stay in touch. If you hear of an opportunity to serve on a board or an article that might be right for them or uplift them, give them a call. When networking a phone call is always more personal than an email. And what goes around will come around. As we near Q2, here are a few tips to upgrade your networking game:

1. Start with who you know by reaching out to five people in your network.

2. Help others by looping them into your network – they might return the favor.

3. Affirm yourself by sharing your news and accomplishments on social networks like LinkedIn.

4. Connect in the way you prefer whether that’s via email, a phone call, or an in person coffee date.

Check out my article in Forbes, 4 Tips to Get Your Career Unstuck through Networking, for a deeper dive.

Getting Unstuck

The Getting Unstuck Community is going strong! At last month’s Q&A, we talked about filling your own cup. As we transition from winter to spring this month, we’ll look back on Q1 and prepare to head into Q2. Join us on March 21 at 12 pm CT. Reply to this email to get a calendar invite. See you there!