The Women’s Resource Raises Record-Breaking $236,710 to Support Financial Education Resources for Houston Women and Girls
HOUSTON, TX (November 8, 2024) – The Women’s Resource of Greater Houston brought Parisian elegance and sophistication to the Bayou City with its third annual Power of the Purse fundraising gala on November 6. Over 400 supporters and friends of the organization gathered at The Revaire, which had been transformed into a vibrant French cafe scene, resplendent with glittering champagne flutes, feathered burlesque dancers, and even an authentic mime.
With the energy and passion of event chair Roslyn Bazzelle Mitchell at the helm, the event raised a record-breaking $236,710 to support The Women’s Resource and its mission of empowering the women and girls of Houston through free financial education and career development resources.
The night’s festivities began with a happy hour where the champagne and conversation flowed freely as guests submitted their silent auction bids and participated in the exclusive Lady Dior raffle and popular Mystery Grab Bag table, all vying for the little pink bag containing a $2,350 tennis bracelet generously donated by Diamonds Direct.
The evening’s program featured an inspiring testimonial from Deanna Mathieson, a TWR career coaching client who successfully landed a new job thanks to the efforts and guidance of her dedicated TWR Career Coach, Jodi. Deanna’s story served as a testament to the importance of TWR’s work and the continued need for investment in the financial literacy and professional skills of the women in our community.
Dynamic emcee Courtney Zavala brought star power to the stage as she introduced the luxury handbags available for auction in an entertaining fashion show, modeled by TWR clients, volunteers, and event Purse-onalities.
Led by Roslyn Bazzelle Mitchell, who owned the runway with the coveted Lady Dior handbag – valued at an impressive $27,100 – the show drew cheers and applause from the excited audience as bag after bag was modeled for their eager eyes and waiting phones. She was joined on the runway by fellow Purse-onality Stephanie Tsuru, the trailblazing cofounder of SheSpace, with a striking Bottega Veneta cassette bag.
Fashion designer Christy Lynn brought a touch of New York sophistication with a black leather Wandler tote bag donated by Tootsies, proving that simplicity can often be the most stunning, while Houston powerhouse Edna Meyer-Nelson brought smiles and delight to audience members with her metallic Prada tote. While final Purse-onality Hallie Vanderhider was unable to attend, event honoree Laura Whitley kept the momentum going by showing off a luxurious purple Prada Saffiano handbag before Mitchell returned to the runway with a glittering Oscar de la Renta bag.
The night ended with the announcement of the lucky winner of the sold-out raffle for the Christian Dior Lady Dior handbag, with Joni Lipkowitz taking home the jewel of the evening.
Media Contact
Taylor Tatum
Coordinator, Development & Communications
[email protected]
(713) 667-4493 ext. 105
