Vail Valley Business Women celebrated with its annual Holiday Soirée on Wednesday, December 13. Hosted at the Antlers at Vail, the event included live music, networking and fundraising to support the Vail Valley community.

“This is VVBW’s biggest fundraiser each year for our scholarship program,” said VVBW President Lori Gleason. “We host a silent auction with many wonderful items for up for bidding, and a Power Ticket drawing – all to support the fund. We raised a record amount this year, coming in at over $6,000.”

VVBW annually awards college scholarships to female Eagle County high school graduates planning to attend two or four-year institutions in the field of business. One hundred percent of the group’s fundraising provides college scholarships, and in 2017, five local students received $1,000 college scholarships.

Attendees were asked to bring new, unwrapped toys for a holiday toy drive for the Bright Future Foundation, an Eagle County nonprofit organization empowering Eagle County families and individuals who are affected by domestic violence and sexual abuse. The toys are gifts for children served by Bright Future’s programs.

“One of the most exciting times of the year for Bright Future is the day after the Soirée and the toy drive,” said Bright Future Foundation Executive Director Sheri Mintz. “Our advocates get the joy of sorting through the toys and matching them with the children. We are grateful for the support of VVBW members and guests who help brighten the holidays for these children.”

VVBW is inclusive and is open to all women in the valley from new college graduates to retirees. Monthly events include networking followed by dinner and programming including professional development, networking and social outings.