Women in Business mark first year

Snoqualmie Valley Women in Business have a lot to celebrate.

The group, founded one year ago by Bliss Spa owner Lesli Williams, started with 15 women entrepreneurs in the Valley and has now grown to 60 members.

Snoqualmie Valley Women in Business unites business women of the Snoqualmie Valley for the purpose of collaboration, networking, community leadership and personal and professional growth. It is a nonprofit organization which includes women from North Bend, Snoqualmie, Fall City, Carnation and Duvall, and focuses on the development and success of each member as well as the Snoqualmie Valley community. Members are active in business, community and leadership in our Valley and beyond, and are committed to the highest standards of community citizenship.

This year saw many accomplishments and milestones for the group. The group spearheaded the first Snoqualmie Valley Health Fair and secured grant funding from the Office on Women’s Health-Region 10/ US Department of Health and Human Services in support of the health fair. Women in Business partnered with multiple local businesses to develop a unique Valley Girl Ale that raised money to support the mission of our partner, the Snoqualmie Valley Chamber of Commerce. They also served on the Virtual Leadership Team of the “keepin’ it local” initiative, hosted a “Take your son/daughter to work day” luncheon, and started forming plans for a mentoring program for girls.

The group is now developing plans for their second year that include expanded partnership with other community partners and potential hosting of national events for the Snoqualmie Valley community that support it smission.

Women in Business invites business women who live or work in the Snoqualmie Valley to join them at monthly luncheons, held the second Wednesday of each month. Sign up at www.svwib.com or e-mail to louisewall@comcast.net.