The Successful Women of Central Valley (SWCV), a local 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, will host a benefit film viewing of “Half the Sky” at the State Theatre in Modesto on Thursday, March 31. Proceeds will benefit three local women’s groups: the Haven Women’s Center of Stanislaus, Without Permission, and Successful Women of Central Valley. All three organizations have shared goals of supporting, educating, benefiting and improving the lives of women and young ladies in the Central Valley.
The State Theatre is 1307 J St., Modesto and for tickets to this special event, visit: www.SWCV.org.
“Half The Sky” is a remarkable documentary filmed in 10 countries that depicts the stories of four brave women who have turned various forms of oppression into opportunity. The film includes appearances by celebrities such as George Clooney, Susan Sarandon, Diane Lane, Eva Mendes, and Meg Ryan, all of whom help to unveil oppressive acts against women and the harsh realities that many women face worldwide. The SWCV viewing on March 31 will feature two stories that focus on the topics of rape and sex trafficking, while delivering a message of hope and call to action for humanity on a global and local level. Organizers note that here, in our very own communities, women are suffering oppression in the shadows of everyday living.
“I had the pleasure of participating as a panel speaker at the viewing of “Half the Sky” in 2015 in Mariposa, California,” said Kimberly Vaughan, Founder and Chair of Successful Women of Central Valley. “I was so moved by the experience that I knew that a viewing in Modesto would benefit women and young ladies in our community greatly. Our Board voted unanimously to purchase the movie rights and Susan Richardson of The State Theatre was first to respond to assist in bringing the film to our area. Susan’s continued dedication to women in our community is commendable and we are so very appreciative.”
On March 31, the evening will kick off with a silent auction when doors open at 4:30 p.m. Light food, specialty coffees and cocktails will be available for purchase as well. At 6 p.m. the program will begin at the State Theatre where the honorary panel of speakers and film will be introduced by Virginia Madueño. Panelists include: May Rico, Executive Director Haven Women’s Center of Stanislaus; Debbie Johnson, Founder and Director of Without Permission; Courtney Baldwin, Community Activist and Intern of Without Permission; two local sex trafficking survivors who will share their insight and courage, and Master of Ceremonies Virginia Madueño, California State Commissioner.
SWCV is seeking sponsors to reach the fundraising goal for the evening to benefit the worthy organizations. Sponsor inquiries can be made to Kimberly Vaughan, 209-966-3890 or Chinyere Nnodim Jack at fundraising@swcv.org.
SWCV is also accepting gifts for the silent auction that will be held just before the film. Contact Chinyere Nnodim Jack at fundraising@swcv.org to make arrangements for gift pickup/delivery.
Other ways to support the event:
SWCV hosts educational monthly networking mixers that focus thematically on a variety of topics such as personal skills, life interests, business and management tools, hobbies and special interests. Mixers are held the first Thursday evening of each month at Clarion Hotel, and include dinner, networking and educational opportunities.
For more information about Successful Women of the Central Valley, visit the website at www.SWCV.org, or contact Kimberly Vaughan at 209-966-3890 or kimberly@SWCV.org.
