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Galentine’s Day Recap: A Night of Connection, Celebration, and Community

By Meaghan Dunham Arena

The Women’s Impact Fund recently gathered for a heartwarming Galentine’s Day celebration, bringing together a dynamic group of women dedicated to philanthropy and community impact. Hosted in the private event space at Birdsong Brewing in NoDa, the evening was filled with laughter, connection, and a shared commitment to making a difference.

With about 40 women in attendance, the event welcomed new members, seasoned veterans, Spark Award winners, and Nonprofit Partners—a true reflection of the powerful network of women who drive our mission forward. It was an opportunity for both fresh faces and long-standing members to connect, exchange stories, and celebrate the impact we create together.

As guests enjoyed craft brews and a deliciously curated candy bar, thoughtfully put together by our Membership Committee, the room buzzed with energy and excitement for the year ahead. Conversations flowed effortlessly, reinforcing the deep bonds that make the Women’s Impact Fund such a special community.

Galentine’s Day was more than just a celebration—it was a reminder of the strength of women supporting women. Whether through philanthropy, mentorship, or friendship, the connections made at this event will continue to inspire and shape our collective impact.

A huge thank you to everyone who attended and to those who worked behind the scenes to make this event a success! We can’t wait for the next opportunity to gather, give back, and grow together.

Join us at our next gathering by visiting the Events page on our website. Most events are free of charge and ALL are welcome!

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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.