Chrysalis Fund to celebrate women at fundraiser in Steinbach

A group of local women philanthropists have been donating their own money and time into a pooled fund for the past 15 years. The original 11 women created what they call “The Chrysalis Fund” from which they distribute funds to charities across the southeast.

Board Chair Debbie Krahn says that group has now grown to 82 people.

“In the past 15 years, we've donated over $92,000 in grants to 12 different registered charities in Steinbach. And these charities, we decided early on that, we wanted to focus on children, youth and families because we feel that a healthy family unit will promote a healthy community, so, our organizations that qualify have a component of supporting children, youth and families, so that's what we do.”

Krahn noted they are planning a fundraising evening this week. She explains why they are hosting the event.

"Well, the Chrysalis Fund has a healthy capital account, but we do have annual operating expenses such as for our website fees, member fees and promotional material, which we don't take out of our donation dollars. We need a separate account for that, specifically our operational funds. So, we are raising funds for that.”

Krahn notes that the last fundraiser they did was five years ago. “So, it's not something we do often.”

"The Chrysalis Fund" fundraiser at MHV in 2019.

This year's theme is “Women and the Circle of Giving” and it promises to be fun.

Krahn notes, “I am really excited about it. We're going to start our evening with a fireside chat, where several special guests will be sharing a little bit about what has motivated them to become involved in philanthropy and volunteering. We have 4 participants on this fireside chat. After which, Christine Beaumont will be talking about what some of the recent trends are in women's giving, based on some research that has come out.”

Those in attendance will then be entertained by the musical sounds of “ACCENT Singers”. A local choir led by Meredith Hutchinson, plus a fashion show hosted by Tracey Loewen of “Olive Grace”.

The fundraiser is happening at the Mennonite Heritage Village Museum, in the Pavilion next to the Livery Barn from 7:00pm to 9:00pm. Tickets are $20 and can be purchased in person at “Olive Grace” in Clearspring Centre and at the Steinbach Arts Council. Krahn invites those interested in purchasing tickets to email them for more details.

She says that folks are also welcome to make a donation directly through their website.

Krahn says the evening will also include, "A rainbow auction, with a lot of door prizes, so it's going to be a really lovely evening. I'm very excited about it and I am also so thankful to all the sponsors that have come on board. The support from the community is just wonderful.”

With files from Carly Koop