The Atlanta Women’s Foundation (AWF) recently hosted its annual “Numbers Too Big To Ignore” luncheon in support of women and girls across the city’s metropolitan area.
Held at the Georgia World Congress Center, the sold-out event drew more than 1,600 attendees, raising $1.2 million for local organizations that “improve the lives of economically vulnerable” Atlanta women and girls, specifically in the areas of healthcare, mental health, education, workforce development and housing, according to AWF’s website.
This year’s program featured a keynote conversation with Hoda Kotb (Emmy Award-winning journalist, author and former co-anchor of NBC News’ TODAY), moderated by Atlanta journalist Cheryl Preheim.
During the panel, Kotb reflected upon her journey as a breast cancer survivor, sharing several stories, including a particular experience involving a man on an airplane who gave her the following advice: “Don’t hog your journey — it’s not just for you.”
With that quote in mind, Kotb encouraged the audience to use their experiences (including the most difficult ones) as a way to help others.
“Hoda reminded us that joy and purpose can grow out of even the hardest seasons of life,” said Kari B. Love, chief executive officer of AWF. “Her message beautifully reflected AWF’s mission: that when women are given the right support and opportunity, they transform not only their own lives but entire communities.”
Now in its 29th year, the Numbers Too Big To Ignore luncheon stands as a signature fundraising event for AWF, serving as an avenue to commemorate the strength of women, along with raising money for impactful initiatives — something that the Atlanta nonprofit highlighted the importance of amidst a time when “only 2% of charitable giving in the U.S.” goes towards supporting organizations that serve women and girls, said AWF.
Over the years, the event has featured a number of accomplished female guest speakers, including Madeleine Albright, Maya Angelou, Dr. Jill Biden, Jane Fonda, Condoleezza Rice, Brooke Shields and Gloria Steinem — all of whom shared their own personal messages in regards to topics like leadership and resiliency, the Atlanta Women’s Foundation said.
