Opening doors to higher education

Carol and her daughter

I’m a single mom.

As I raised my daughter, I emphasized the importance of attending college. For me, it felt like a form of “mom insurance,” a way for my daughter to:

• Secure a better-paying job

• Provide protection through the ups and downs of the economy

• Offer a chance at a career she would truly love

Too often, women find themselves in jobs they like, but don’t love. Higher education gives us choices.

I come from a family that values education, and I love engaging with people who work in that space.

During a conversation with a marketing professional at Washington State University Vancouver, I learned that sometimes what prevents someone from showing up on the first day of class is something as small as $200.

And I thought, “I’d pay $200 to help someone go to college.”

That seed of thought eventually grew into the founding of the nonprofit Woman of Wonder.

As women navigate life and take on responsibilities, their choices can become limited. The opportunity to start or finish a degree often slips away. Our nonprofit fills that gap, supporting college women since 2019.

Here’s your invitation.

Think about the women who have influenced you—those who supported you with love, a meal, or a word of encouragement.

And here’s the secret to giving: Pass that gift forward to help someone else.

As you consider your gift, please know how grateful I am for your support. You understand that a little help can make a BIG difference in someone’s life.

And remember, we’re called “Woman” (singular) of Wonder, because we want our scholars to be able to stand up with confidence and say, “I am Woman Wonder.”

And after you make your Give More 24 gift, I hope you’ll dare to stand up and say, "I am a Woman of Wonder."

Or, if that’s not your style, I hope there is someone special in your life you can honor and say, "I am loved by a Woman of Wonder."

All the best,

Carol Doane