Professional Women’s Group

Shoebox Ministry – May 2023

The PWG coordinated a fundraiser and bake sale to aid Shoebox Ministry, a 501(c)3 organization that coordinates the collection and distribution of toiletry items in the Phoenix Metro area to those experiencing homelessness and others who need but cannot afford hygiene items. Sarah Myers took the lead in collecting contributions for Shoebox’s Annual Mother’s Day Purse Drive, including medium and large purses in new or good condition and new toiletries and cosmetics to distribute to local mothers. Additionally, Sarah and the PWG organized a silent auction bake sale, with 42 items donated by G&K attorneys and staff, which resulted in monetary donations totaling over $2,000.

Fresh Start Women’s Foundation – January 2021

Determined to support worthy causes even though in-person events were still being canceled and postponed, the PWG hosted a virtual charity walk to benefit Fresh Start Women’s Foundation. Exploring Arizona’s mountain trails, lakes, and urban walking paths, the group trekked to raise $1,400 for this worthy cause!

Valley of the Sun United Way School Readiness Kit Assembly – December 2018

With the help of donations from fellow Gallagher & Kennedy employees, the firm’s Professional Women’s Group purchased supplies for and assembled 30 Student Activity Kits for Valley of the Sun United Way. Containing a variety of school supplies that every child needs, Valley of the Sun United Way distributed the kits to a classroom in need. The Valley of the Sun United Way is a nonprofit that focuses on ending hunger and homelessness, increasing financial stability for families and individuals, and ensuring children and youth succeed.

Circle the City – August 2016

With the help of donations from employees at Gallagher & Kennedy, the firm’s Professional Women’s Group assembled 80 Kindness Kits for Circle the City, a nonprofit that creates and delivers innovative healthcare solutions to address the needs of those facing homelessness. Containing everyday necessities, Circle the City distributes Kindness Kits in parks and other social service agencies to raise awareness for the organization’s medical services.

G&K ‘s Professional Women’s Group Answers a Call for Prom – April 2015

Gallagher & Kennedy’s Professional Women’s Group donated gently used formalwear and monetary donations to the Girls Leadership Academy of Arizona (GLAAZ). GLAAZ, a single-gender charter high school that empowers young women to succeed as leaders in their classrooms, in their communities, and in their own lives.

Many students view prom as a rite of passage for teens. But what about those young women who want the experience but whose families are unable to provide the formal attire for the event?

On Tuesday morning, April 28th, Jennifer Cranston, a shareholder with Gallagher & Kennedy, received word that GLAAZ needed formalwear for the school’s upcoming prom. Their search was down to the wire, with many students unable to afford dresses and suits. Jennifer immediately called upon her colleagues in Gallagher & Kennedy’s Professional Women’s Group. The women quickly mobilized. In less than 24 hours, the Professional Women’s Group collected more than 15 dresses, five pairs of dress shoes, and more than $250 in donations.

Jana Pool, GLAAZ’s Student Success Liaison, and several students stopped by Gallagher & Kennedy on April 29th to pick up the donations.

“We were thrilled by the opportunity to help these young ladies,” said Cranston. “Not only did it bring back fond memories of our own prom experiences, but it allowed us to demonstrate through our actions the importance of giving back to the community.“

Whether partnering to support the causes of their clients or serving organizations that meet unique personal or professional interests of their employees, hundreds of volunteer service hours are given to hundreds of nonprofit and professional organizations each year by Gallagher & Kennedy employees.