Thanks to two generous foundation grants the South Lake Tahoe Women's Center has been able to make significant upgrades at our business office that will help us better serve the community.

First, the AT&T Foundation Excelerator Grant Program awarded the Women's Center $5,000 to install a computer network system that increases staff efficiency through data-sharing; better protects confidential information with additional firewall and backup capabilities; and, most importantly, enhances the staff's ability to research and share resources to assist clients.

Second, the HEDCO Foundation awarded the Women's Center $58,500 for two of our highest-priority capital development projects. The first project is a minor remodel of our confidential emergency domestic violence shelter, including security improvements and other upgrades that will ensure that the emergency shelter remains safe and relatively maintenance-free over the next decade. The second project is a complete remodel of the kitchen at our business office, including installing new flooring, cabinetry, countertops, and appliances. The remodel will allow us to work on-site with clients individually on meal preparation and nutrition skills. In addition, the upgrades will increase energy efficiency and will increase the safety of clients and staff using the kitchen. We were very fortunate to receive additional community support for this project through an individual donation of $1,000; pro-bono design work by Jill's Classic Cabinetry; and free granite countertops provided by SDC Stone.

Executive Director Leanne Wagoner said "the Women's Center is extremely grateful to receive support for these important projects. Foundation and individual donations are not taken for granted by the Women's Center because they enable us to direct as many resources as possible to client services."

If you are interested in supporting a project at the Women's Center, here are our highest-priority needs related to the overall operation of the agency: new commercial carpet throughout the building ($8,000); funding to complete Best Management Practices activities ($7,000-$10,000); funding to purchase a second user license for our accounting software program ($9,000); and funding to purchase 10 new filing cabinets ($3,500). Of course, we are always in need of funding to assist clients with things like utilities, child care, or other basic life expenses; gift certificates to local grocery and clothing stores; bus passes; diapers, baby formula, and baby clothing; and non-perishable food.