Women Supporting Women Through Opportunity Conference set for March 15 to 17
The eighth annual Women Supporting Women Through Opportunity Conference is set for Friday, March 15, through Sunday, March 17, at Redden Lodge near Georgetown. An array of activities is planned including workshops, door prizes, food, fellowship, and lots of fun and learning opportunities.
The conference is held annually, planned by friends of the Gee…You Will Project, a formalwear lending library and women's and girls’ mentoring project. More than 50 women, from community and civic association members to housewives and professionals attend the conference annually.
A Juniors to Seniors Prom for (juniors in high school to senior citizens is planned for May 18 to celebrate the 10th anniversary of organizing the formalwear lending library and mentoring components to the community.
The March 15 to 17 conference will begin with the traditional Eat Dessert First reception and an evening of activities designed to help the attendees get to know one another. The theme of this year’s conference is New Year New You, and supporting this theme is a New Year’s celebration.
On Saturday, a variety of workshop topics are planned, including The Happiness Factor; Takin’ CARA You; Living the Journey, a panel of survivors; Nature Walk; Drumming; Dream Interpretation; Reiki; Food Art; The Kitchen Crew; and Belly Dancing.
This year’s conference will also include a presentation by Twisted Sistas, a women’s group out of Wilmington. They will present a program focusing on sisterhood titled “I am my Sista’s Keeper.” The presentation will also include a dance routine the group teaches to engage others in activities that show positive support and regard for women.
On Sunday there will be a nondenominational Celebration Ceremony followed by a morning of crafting and other activities.
“The conference takes on a retreat feel and promotes an atmosphere of comfort and joy among those attending,” said Rosemary Joseph-Kappel, cofounder of the Gee…You Will Project.
“When the conference began it was to promote the project; now the conference is a part of the project that volunteers, supporters and those who are simply curious look forward to every year.”
The conference donation is $50, which includes food, supplies, facilities and lodging (if desired) on a first-come, first-served basis. The conference is open to about 55 women, ages 18-80 and beyond, and workshop assignments are made based on registration dates.
Delaware Commission for Women has been the conference’s lead sponsor for the last six years and will also sponsor the event this year. Scholarships are available for those in need, thanks to DCW and other supporters. Payment plans can also be arranged.
Other support and consideration is also given by local businesses and individuals who either want to help with conference costs or provide scholarships for participants in need. Sponsors are being accepted for this year’s conference and for the Gee…You Will Project to help with operating costs and support the lending library and its borrowers.
For more information about attendance or sponsorship, call Rosemary Joseph-Kappel at 302-242-0032 or email GUWillProject@yahoo.com.
