A combination of games, friendship, celebration and generosity came together to lift up the crowd at Novelty Hill-Januik Winery in Woodinville, WA at WWIN’s 2017 Sip for Stars! event.
More than 150 guests raised their glasses of bubbly to the inspiring Star Scholars of WWIN, and to all those who helped them achieve their dreams. They also raised their paddles–to the tune of over $170,000 for the Star Scholar program. Two women shared what their multi-year education grants have meant to them.
Current Scholar Heather, a psychology student, shared her story of adversity and thanked WWIN for helping her move toward her dreams. Being a Star Scholar, she says, has impacted not just her, but everyone in her life. Once a homeless single mother struggling with addiction, Heather says that now, “I feel supported by WWIN to do what no one else in my family has done–to chose education by means of changing my life course.”
Recent graduate Aneida spoke about growing up in a migrant family where both parents have worked in agricultural fields most of their lives. A single mother and the first in her family to attend college, Aneida pushed through financial hardships, long days away from her daughter and challenging coursework to become a dental hygienist. Like Heather, for her being a Star Scholar meant more than just getting financial help. “To me it meant that WWIN had listened to my story, and despite my previous defeats they believed in me and my pursuit of a different life for me and my daughter.”
WWIN board member Lori Cummings emceed the evening, fostering a spirit of camaraderie and collective generosity. Vicki Soule, Sip for Stars! Board Event Chair demonstrated her tenacious spirit and ongoing commitment to the women of WWIN. We are grateful to all who attended this incredible night. We can’t wait to see you again next year! In the meantime, enjoy this year’s photos on our Facebook page.