[img]http://www.ewb-usa.org/uploads/img44f48c84eeece.jpg[/img]
Left to Right: Zoe Kircos, Cathy Leslie, Robin Gribbon (BoldeReach Board Member), Nancy Stewart (Water for People), Wende Valentine (Water for People).





The wind howled. The rain came down in torrents. Golf ball sized hail pelted centerpieces and chafing dishes. But on June 24th, the eve of Boulder’s worst storm of the summer, supporters from the Denver metro area still donned tuxes and evening gowns and turned out for the BoldeReach gala to support clean water programs at Engineers Without Borders – USA and Water For People.

Over 200 attendees mingled in the foothills mansion, sipped martinis, supped on delightful South American cuisine, bid on more than 100 silent auction items, and responded with generosity and compassion to the direct appeal orchestrated by the volunteer auctioneer. By the time the last guest was gone and dish was washed, over $119,000 had been raised in the course of the evening. Once expenses were paid – minimal expenses since all auction items were donated and volunteers cooked, served, decorated and parked cars – BoldeReach had $110,000 to split between the two organizations.

A second party – smaller this time – was held on August 21 to pass out checks and marvel at our good fortune. Executive Director Cathy Leslie and Grants Coordinator Zoe Kircos accepted the donation on behalf of EWB-USA, and joined with Water For People in recognizing the women of BoldeReach for their energy and passion.

EWB-USA extends its sincerest thanks to the members of BoldeReach, a community of women dedicated to supporting organizations that aid and empower women and children in extreme need around the world, for choosing us as one of the recipients of their efforts this year. Special recognition also goes to EWB-USA Board Member John Bennett, who shoveled hail, greeted guests, and made his own heartfelt appeal and generous donation to the cause of clean water around the world.