Women's Resource Center

WRC's biggest annual fundraiser of the year, Art in the Park is almost here!!! Make plans to attend this fun event for the whole family on Saturday, May 4th from 11-3! ? This year have 50 talented artists, a silent auction, a new juried showcase (see details below), an amazing musical guest, yummy food trucks, and craft beer. PLUS activities for the kiddos :) ? ~So bring a blanket and spend the day in our beautiful park in support of WRC and local Artisans!~ Juried showcase information and registration: https://lnkd.in/eMVQfA2z

?? ?? Women’s History Month Spotlight! ?? This year, Women's Resource Center is celebrating Women’s History Month with a special Q&A series featuring our staff, volunteers, and board members! Join us as we share what this month means to us, why we’re passionate about WRC, and the inspiring stories that fuel our mission. Stay tuned for heartfelt reflections, powerful conversations, and a deeper look at the impact we’re making together! Today we spotlight one of our fabulous Volunteer Coordinator, Leanne Eichinger! Here's what Leanne had to say: ??Q: What does Women’s History Month mean to you? A: When I think about Women’s History Month, I first think of all of the GREAT and “successful” women, you know, Marie Curie, Joan of Arc, Rosa Parks, Margaret Thatcher, Mother Theresa. But then my mind skitters away from them to land gently on the shoulders of my mother, my grandmothers, my sister, the women I have worked with in prison, in schools, in the dark pits of BIG bureaucracy. They are the women I value and love the most; those whose superpower is kindness, who are patient and funny and joyful even where there is no joy. You know, the most ordinary of women. ??Q: What do you love most about volunteering at the Women’s Resource Center? A: I love interacting with the women I described above. Oh, and packing pantry products; sorting and packing has the same effect as watching goldfish swim around in a bowl. Relaxing. ??Q: Do you have a special story to tell? A: Well, not really a story, although my mind is rich with stories of my mother and grandmothers and mother-in-law. What a generation that was!! But what I will share is that I recently gave my fifteen-year-old granddaughter a small gold winged heart necklace. The winged heart represents freedom which I hope she will always have, even if she has to fight for it, and unconditional love, which she already has, lucky girl. So, I wish the same for all of you.

?? ?? Women’s History Month Spotlight: Celebrating Women-Owned Businesses! ?? ?? At WRC, we’re proud to support and uplift women entrepreneurs who are making an impact in our community. This Women's History Month, we’re highlighting incredible women-owned businesses that inspire, lead, and pave the way for future generations. Today, we recognize Dr. Aakriti Agrawal. Dr. Aakriti Agrawal is a pelvic health physical therapist practicing locally in Hickory, NC. She also offers pelvic wellness coaching for out of state and out of country clients. Dr. Aakriti earned her Doctor of Physical Therapy from Duke University and has received extensive training and certifications in pelvic floor therapy. She works with people of all genders helping them keep their pants dry from urinary/bowel leaking, overcome pain with intimacy, and help them have an empowered pregnancy/labor/postpartum experience. Dr. Aakriti is committed to creating a supportive and inclusive environment where everyone feels heard, respected, and empowered to take charge of their pelvic health. Dr. Aakriti also offers free 20 minute consultation calls! To schedule, text/call at 828-525-8166, email her at [email protected], or fill out a contact form on her https://lnkd.in/e89RG9v9 #WomensHistoryMonth #SupportWomenOwned #WRCSpotlight #WomenEntrepreneurs #WRCHickory

?? ?? Women’s History Month Spotlight: Celebrating Women-Owned Businesses! ?? At WRC, we’re proud to support and uplift women entrepreneurs who are making an impact in our community. This Women's History Month, we’re highlighting incredible women-owned businesses that inspire, lead, and pave the way for future generations. Today, we recognize Mandy Pearce, Founder & Owner of Funding for Good. Mandy saw a need in the nonprofit sector and had a vision to meet it. Most nonprofits operate on shoestring budgets, working hard to create impact while struggling to raise funds and retain staff. Overwhelmed, leaders turn to consultants for support, only to be met with disappointing results. Whether it’s fundraising, strategic planning, or board development, nonprofits need reliable, results-driven experts. That’s where Funding for Good comes in. Mandy founded the company in 2009, starting with grants training, research, and proposal writing, helping nonprofits secure tens of millions of dollars. Over time, Funding for Good expanded into: ? Strategic planning to help nonprofits & businesses set bold goals and align teams ?Fundraising development & coaching to empower organizations to exceed revenue targets ?Board services & expert resources to build sustainable leadership and lasting impact ?Consultant mentoring to strengthen the nonprofit sector nationwide For over 20 years, Mandy has shared her expertise through coaching, workshops, and executive training, helping thousands of nonprofit leaders thrive. She founded Funding for Good on the core values of honesty, efficiency, and bringing sustainable dollars to local communities. Mandy lives in Hickory, NC, with her husband Ricardo and their furbabies, Dalli & Max. Together, they also run Two Green Thumbs and More, a successful landscaping & woodworking business. On her days off, she enjoys gardening, relaxing on the porch with sweet tea, and cooking gourmet meals for family and friends. ?? ?? #WomensHistoryMonth #SupportWomenOwned #WRCSpotlight #WomenEntrepreneurs #WRCHickory

?? ?? Women’s History Month Spotlight: Celebrating Women-Owned Businesses! ?? At WRC, we’re proud to support and uplift women entrepreneurs who are making an impact in our community. This Women's History Month, we’re highlighting incredible women-owned businesses that inspire, lead, and pave the way for future generations. Today we recognize Michelle Weaver – Owner & Founder, Unifour Natural Pet Foods, LLC Twelve years ago, Michelle Weaver recognized a gap in the market—there were no local stores offering raw pet food, and the available options were either difficult to find or unaffordable. Making her own pet food was the best choice, but with a young family and a busy schedule, it wasn’t feasible. In 2012, with the support of her husband and three children (then 16, 11, and 9), she founded Unifour Natural Pet Foods, a woman-owned business built on a simple belief: Natural Foods for Healthy Pets. Starting with just one freezer in her home, Michelle has since expanded to four freezers and stocked shelves, growing Unifour into a trusted provider of affordable, species-specific, preservative-free raw pet food. Today, her sales are ten times what they were in her first year—proof of her dedication and the trust she’s built with her customers. But the journey hasn’t been easy. As a woman in business, Michelle has faced skepticism from wholesalers and inappropriate behavior from customers. She has learned to set firm boundaries, adapt, and take measures to ensure her safety—like conducting all business outdoors—while maintaining professionalism and care. She doesn’t consider herself a natural salesperson, but perhaps that’s her greatest strength. Her customers know she’s not trying to upsell them—they return because they trust her genuine commitment to their pets' well-being and her dedication to fair, transparent pricing. As a registered Member of the Iowa Tribe of Kansas and Nebraska, Michelle proudly serves her Tribal Nation not only through entrepreneurship but also as part of the Tribe’s Communications Team. Whether she’s promoting transparency and wellness through her business or supporting her Tribal community via social media, email outreach, and website management, her work is grounded in purpose, connection, and integrity. Through it all, Michelle has balanced entrepreneurship, Tribal leadership, family life, and community service. She is passionate about educating others, helping pets live healthier lives, and proving that you don’t need a storefront to build something meaningful—you just need heart, resilience, and a clear mission. Michelle’s advice to other women in business: "Set your boundaries and stand by them. Love what you do—but never forget who you're doing it for." #WomensHistoryMonth #SupportWomenOwned #WRCSpotlight #WomenEntrepreneurs #WRCHickory https://lnkd.in/eQ4QaQsW

?? ?? Women’s History Month Spotlight: Celebrating Women-Owned Businesses! ?? ?? At WRC, we’re proud to support and uplift women entrepreneurs who are making an impact in our community. This Women's History Month, we’re highlighting incredible women-owned businesses that inspire, lead, and pave the way for future generations. Today we recognize Alyssa Petten! Alyssa is the owner and sole operator of Sweeter By The Slice, a small local bakery specializing in beautifully decorated cakes. In addition to running her bakery, she works full-time as an office manager and balances her busy life with her husband and two children. With a passion for all things crafty, she takes pride in providing affordable, delicious, and stunning cakes for every occasion. Alyssa's journey into baking began unexpectedly when her sister-in-law requested a Highland cow cake but couldn’t find a bakery that offered it at a reasonable price. Taking on the challenge herself, she discovered a love for cake decorating, and Sweeter by the Slice was born. Now, two years into her business, she continues to grow and refine her craft, finding joy in each creation. While owning and operating a business comes with challenges, the satisfaction of delivering a cake that brings happiness to her customers makes it all worthwhile. #WomensHistoryMonth #SupportWomenOwned #WRCSpotlight #WomenEntrepreneurs #WRCHickory

?? Women’s History Month Spotlight: Celebrating Women-Owned Businesses! ?? ?? At WRC, we’re proud to support and uplift women entrepreneurs who are making an impact in our community. This Women's History Month, we’re highlighting incredible women-owned businesses that inspire, lead, and pave the way for future generations. Today we recognize Normandy Schenck! Normandy Schenck is an ordained Evangelist, the owner of The Poiema, and a dedicated Mental Health Advocate. She serves in multiple capacities, empowered by the talents and gifts entrusted to her by Christ. A devoted worshipper, intercessor, and entrepreneur, Normandy offers flag worship classes and mentors both adults and youth in the art of worship through The Poiema. The vision for The Poiema began when she considered purchasing a half-million-dollar wedding store in Valdese. While working with the Small Business Center in Morganton and developing a business plan, she recognized that the building had enough space to display worship flags and teach their significance in worship. Over time, with guidance from the Lord, The Poiema was born. She ultimately set aside the wedding store concept to fully pursue her passion for worship. In 2023, The Poiema—a Greek word meaning "masterpiece"—was officially registered with the State of North Carolina, and in 2024, it was formally launched. The inspiration comes from Ephesians 2:10: "For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago." Alongside her husband, Minister Jerry Schenck, she co-authored You Are Fearfully and Wonderfully Made and has published over 200 journals, available on Amazon. Normandy holds certifications in Flag Worship and Deaconess Training and is passionate about spreading mental health awareness. She openly shares her personal journey as a speaker and is available for engagements on Mental Health Awareness and Flag Worship Ministry. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Organizational Leadership and is currently pursuing a Master’s Degree in Human Services at Lenoir-Rhyne University. A licensed minister since 2014 at Chambers Chapel, she was ordained under Joan Hunter Ministries in 2015 and installed as an ordained evangelist in 2023 at Greater Shekinah Glory. Additionally, she is a proud member of The Chamber of Catawba County. Her unwavering faith is reflected in her life verse, Philippians 4:13: "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." This verse serves as a constant reminder that, no matter the challenges, God is her ultimate source of strength. #WomensHistoryMonth #SupportWomenOwned #WRCSpotlight #WomenEntrepreneurs #WRCHickory

?? ?? Women’s History Month Spotlight! ?? This year, Women's Resource Center is celebrating Women’s History Month with a special Q&A series featuring our staff, volunteers, and board members! Join us as we share what this month means to us, why we’re passionate about WRC, and the inspiring stories that fuel our mission. Stay tuned for heartfelt reflections, powerful conversations, and a deeper look at the impact we’re making together! Today we spotlight former board member and long-time volunteer, Lorraine Morlok! Here's what Lorraine had to say: Q: What do you like about being involved with Women’s Resource Center? A: I have volunteered at WRC for 14 years. The thing I like the most is the respect and care each of the clients gets when they come to us for assistance. Q: Is there a special story you want to share? A: I especially remember during COVID when we were able to provide pantry supplies by delivering them curbside to the women in need. They were so grateful for receiving this help in this time of crisis. I hope to continue as long as I can to help this organization thrive. #WomensHistoryMonth #WRCCelebratesWomen #StrongerTogether #wrchickory #wrcempowers

?? Women’s History Month Spotlight: Celebrating Women-Owned Businesses! ?? At WRC, we’re proud to uplift women entrepreneurs who inspire and lead in our community. This Women's History Month, we celebrate Juliet Good! A Sarasota, FL native, Juliet attended Appalachian State University, where she balanced a full-time job, danced for the ASU team, and graduated with honors in Business Marketing & Management. She later moved to Charlotte, NC, pursuing a finance career while cheering for the Carolina Panthers and serving as a Guardian Ad Litem. In 2012, Juliet took a leap of faith and opened Juliet Good State Farm in Hickory, NC. Committed to community engagement, she joined the City of Hickory’s Neighborhood College, volunteered with CCM and the Hickory Soup Kitchen, joined Rotary, and served on nonprofit boards, including WRC—where she was a Center Circle Member and Board President before taking maternity leave to welcome her daughter, Lennox. Juliet’s passion for empowering women led her to open Elevate Hickory in May 2022, a female-only Pole Fitness studio dedicated to building confidence and strength. Juliet and her husband, Matt, live in downtown Hickory and remain deeply involved in the community. She currently serves on the Hickory Rotary Club and the Hickory Downtown Association, working to cultivate a thriving local business scene. #WomensHistoryMonth #SupportWomenOwned #WRCSpotlight #WomenEntrepreneurs #WRCHickory

?? Women’s History Month Spotlight! ??? This Women’s History Month, the Women’s Resource Center is celebrating with a special Q&A series featuring our staff, volunteers, and board members! ???? Join us as we reflect on what this month means, why we’re passionate about WRC, and the inspiring stories that fuel our mission. Today’s spotlight features our Board President, Patti Moore! ?? Q: What does Women’s History Month mean to you? A: It’s a time to honor trailblazing women in history and the strong women in my own life—my mom, sister, aunt, and especially my great-grandmother, Lillian Mae Graham. She was fearless, the first in her town to fly in an airplane, wear makeup, and bob her hair. Her story reminds me—and my daughters—that we come from strong women who spoke their minds and stayed true to themselves. ?? Q: Why are you passionate about WRC? A: I’m honored to be part of a space where women feel welcomed, heard, and empowered. Seeking resources can be overwhelming, especially in crisis. At WRC, we meet women where they are and provide tools to help them move forward. ?? Q: A special moment at WRC? A: Our Pantry with a Purpose provides essentials like hygiene and cleaning supplies—items not covered by government assistance. I once gave a woman makeup before a job interview, and she teared up, saying it would help her feel confident. It’s moments like these that show the dignity our services provide. #WomensHistoryMonth #WRCCelebratesWomen #StrongerTogether #wrchickory #wrcempowers