International Day of Charity; September 5

By Aimee Greeter

Each month in our Member Connection and Newsletter, we will highlight one or more significant events or occasions that relate to the WIF mission and our members. For September, we wanted to draw your attention to the International Day of Charity, which took place earlier this week.

Observed annually on September 5, it commemorates the passing of Mother Teresa of Calcutta. A recipient of the 1979 Nobel Peace Prize, Mother Teresa was recognized for her “selfless efforts in helping the unwanted and the unloved” and her dedication to promoting peace and understanding. It is a powerful reminder of the significance of philanthropy in our global community and underscores the crucial role that charity plays in addressing the world’s most pressing challenges and promoting goodwill among nations.

The International Day of Charity encourages people to contribute to causes they care about, whether alleviating poverty, advancing education, or supporting healthcare initiatives. Charity is a driving force for positive change, as it empowers individuals and organizations to make a meaningful impact on the lives of those less fortunate.

Furthermore, this day promotes the spirit of generosity and compassion, fostering a sense of unity and interconnectedness among people from diverse backgrounds. It reminds us that we share a common responsibility to create a more equitable and just world. In an era marked by global crises and inequalities, the International Day of Charity serves as a beacon of hope, inspiring acts of kindness and solidarity. It reminds us that charity knows no boundaries and that together, we can make a difference in the lives of countless individuals and communities around the world. So, on this day and every day, let us embrace the spirit of charity and work towards a brighter, more compassionate future for all.

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Janet LaBar

Executive Director​
jlabar@womensimpactfund.org

With more than 25 years of experience, Janet has a proven track record of leading organizations and teams in developing strategies that foster thriving communities. Her career is dedicated to the well-being of the places she serves, and the people and businesses within them, positioning her as a trusted sounding board, critical thinker, and purposeful protagonist across corporate, government, education, entrepreneurial, and civic spheres.
Janet joined Women’s Impact Fund in June 2025 to guide one of Charlotte’s most respected, women-led philanthropic organizations into its next phase of growth and impact. In partnership with the Women’s Impact Fund team, Board, Advisors, members, volunteers, and key community partners, she will continue strengthening communities by maximizing women’s leadership in philanthropy through collective giving, education, and engagement.
Inspired by her family, teams who dare greatly, and people and communities striving to be their best selves, Janet’s impactful career includes leadership roles as President and CEO of Charlotte Regional Business Alliance, President and CEO of Greater Portland Inc, and Chief Performance Officer of Greater Phoenix Economic Council. As a first-generation Filipino American, her lived experience deeply informs her professional drive to create equitable economic growth and opportunity in the metro areas she’s served.
She holds a BA in Communication Arts from the University of West Florida and an MBA in Marketing from the University of Phoenix. Janet and her husband James are proud parents to an older daughter, and a daughter and son who are twins.