Women’s Board moves fundraiser to May amid surging pandemic

Surging covid numbers have pushed back the annual fundraiser by the Women’s Board of Pittsburgh, originally scheduled for Jan. 28.

“In the best interest of our guests, we have moved our event,” said board spokesperson Debbie Burke.

Festivities are scheduled for May 5-6. The event will be offered both virtually and in-person at the Pittsburgh Field Club off of Hemlock Hollow Road in Fox Chapel.

Virtual activities begin at 6 p.m. May 5 and include an online auction and a cooking demo by Paul O’Toole, executive chef of the Field Club.

In-person celebrations will include cocktail fare from 4:30 to 7 p.m. May 6 and a runway fashion show by Carabella of Oakmont.

Founded in 1991, the Women’s Board began with a small group of friends who wanted to improve the lives of children across the Pittsburgh region.

In its first year, a luncheon fundraiser brought in $1,200.

Since then, the total raised by a group of 70 volunteers has topped $1.2 million.

Burke said the committee decided this year to wait until after the fundraiser to announce a beneficiary.

“Depending on needs, we may be able to provide funds to more than one beneficiary,” she said. “Through our selection process, we have discovered many deserving and often underserved organizations dedicated to improving the lives of children.”

Past donations have gone to help children with food, books, technology and recreation.

In 2021, through a virtual fundraiser in the midst of the pandemic, the group brought in $90,000 that was shared between The Neighborhood Academy in Stanton Heights and the Women’s Center and Shelter of Greater Pittsburgh.

For tickets or to participate in the online auction, visit WBPgh2022.givesmart.com.