“Get involved!” is usually the first piece of advice offered when moving to a new city. It was for me when I moved to the area a few years ago. Whether you’re new to town, want to meet some local girlfriends or are looking to get more involved in the community, there are several women’s groups that serve our region. Some are geared toward women who want to broaden their professional network and learn from fellow girl-bosses while others focus more on philanthropic ventures and giving back to the community. One thing is for certain, all of them are great ways to form bonds with other local ladies.
Dames Collective
What it is: Networking Group
Who it's good for: Female leaders, entrepreneurs, and innovators
Where it is: Fairfield County
If you’re looking to gain inspiration from other women who are creating and innovating, Dames Collective is the perfect group for you. Simply put, this is the ultimate networking group for this generation’s female leaders, entrepreneurs, and innovators. The Dames Collective envisioned a group where all women, when taking the leap into entrepreneurship, could feel confident and welcomed by an encouraging community; that’s how this group was born. This membership-based organization offers a myriad of programming. For example, their Monthly Morning MindFUEL meetings consist of a small panel of experts in a specified field. Attendees are able to ask questions and network. The overarching goal is growth for all! These morning events are also available to non-members as well at $30 a ticket.
Evening Mixers are a great way to unwind and make meaningful connections with other like-minded women and learn from different women-owned business. Think of this as a “How I Built This” podcast episode but with in-person connections and cocktails! These events are a great way to gain inspiration & network without the awkward “Hello, My Name Is..” nametags, especially if mornings don’t work for you.
The Dames Collective prides themselves on not just talking about business, but getting it done! And while business can feel daunting, members are open, honest, friendly and believe in the most important Dames sentiment: collaboration over competition.
For more information visit DamesCollective.com/Fairfield-County-CT
Weston Women’s League
What it is: Philanthropic Organization
Who it's good for: Women who want to support charitable, educational and community needs
Where it is: Weston
The Weston Women's League was founded in 1972 as the Weston Young Women’s Club and has been a long-standing fixture in the community. To better reflect the group’s membership and mission, the organization rebranded in 2003 to how we know it today: the Weston Women’s League (or to some, the “League”). The League consists of a diverse group of women who share the same organizational values and goals: volunteering and supporting community needs. Due to the variety of ways the Weston Women’s League serves the community, members have many interests and talents and utilize them to make a difference for those in need. Involvement in the League can truly fit any schedule! The League holds monthly meetings to discuss and plan social and charitable activities. A great way to get involved while also building bonds with other local women. On May 6th, the League will be hosting their spring fundraiser to benefit Tiny Miracles at Redding Beer Co. from 7-10pm.
For more information visit WestonWomensLeague.org
Westport Women’s Club
What it is: Philanthropic Organization
Who it's good for: Women who want to make a positive contribution
Where it is: 44 Imperial Avenue, Westport
If you’ve attended the Yankee Doodle Fair, Westport’s largest annual family event, or the Curio Cottage Thrift Shop, you have probably already heard of the Westport Women’s Club. These events are just two of many that are supported by the group. The Westport Woman’s Club is one of Westport’s most respected and esteemed institutions dating all the way back to 1907. The WWC is a non-profit, philanthropic organization dedicated to volunteerism and raising funds in support of the charitable, educational, cultural and public health services in Westport and surrounding towns. Members contribute their talents, time, and energy and their efforts have benefitted hundreds of organizations and local children through various grants and scholarships distributed every year. While the club meets in Westport, there is no residency requirement for membership; all women who live or work in Westport or surrounding areas are welcome. Westport Women’s Club is one of two women’s organizations in Connecticut with a clubhouse. “We take great pride in our beautiful and historic clubhouse which is even available to rent for special events” says President Christina McVaney.
For more information visit WestportWomansClub.org
Westport Young Women’s League
What it is: Philanthropic Organization
Who it's good for: Women who want to build community
Where it is: Westport
Between volunteering, social activities and fundraising, the Westport Young Women’s League (WYWL) keeps a busy schedule. But don’t worry if you have a full agenda, there is truly something for everyone at WYWL. Between meetings, fundraisers, grants, social and community service, you can sign up for what works best for you. Since the organization’s inception in 1956 the league has distributed over $4.3 million in grants to local and/or education based charities in lower Fairfield County. This year alone these women will be distributing $90k in grants largely thanks to their major fundraisers, CraftWestport and the Minute Man Road Race. While those two events are more widely publicized, the WYWL works closely with the Community Kitchen, Westport Clean Up Day and the Westport Senior Center, just to name a few. If there is a local cause you’re passionate about, it’s likely WYWL is involved.
For more information visit www.WYWL.com