Women In Philanthropy of Sarasota announces honorees for its first soiree

Former U.S. Congresswoman Katherine Harris and Sarasota resident Margaret Wise met when Harris first joined the Junior League of Sarasota. She was the chair of its Holiday Tour of Homes fundraiser and asked Wise if she would consider allowing the group to include her home in the tour.

Since then, the two have been inseparable, cultivating a strong friendship over their common passion for getting involved in the community.

“When I tried to get everyone to run for the (Florida) Senate back in 1994 because I didn’t feel that we were being well represented, Margaret and a few others actually talked me into running myself,” said Harris. “I had no interest in running for politics whatsoever. I didn’t realize how much she was involved in that, but we have always enjoyed a great friendship where we encourage each other.”

Now 40 years later, Harris and Wise teamed up this year to start a new nonprofit: Women in Philanthropy of Sarasota. The new organization will honor past and present women leaders of philanthropy while at the same time connecting them with younger generations of women in Sarasota to mentor them on how they can make a difference. 

Women In Philanthropy of Sarasota held its first honoree meeting Aug. 14 at Cafe L’Europe. Ninety-eight of the most influential women in philanthropy around the area attended the event to learn about the 12 honorees of its first soiree planned for November. 

Through their many years of friendship, Wise and Harris talked about how women play a big part in the philanthropy scene in Sarasota but don't get the recognition they deserve for their work. 

Along with her involvement in the Junior League of Sarasota, Harris has served on the boards of everything from the Asolo Repertory Theatre to the Arts and Cultural Alliance of Sarasota County. Wise is known for her involvement in organizations such as the Education Foundation of Sarasota County, Safe Place and Rape Crisis Center, Pines of Sarasota and Sarasota Memorial Healthcare Foundation. 

Women In Philanthropy of Sarasota hosted its first meeting April 19 at Harris's house. Since then, the group has held monthly luncheons to build its network of women while also inspiring them by featuring local speakers who present opportunities for them to give back in the community. 

“These women are involved in all areas:  healthcare arena, education, social services,” said Harris. “They are involved in assisting those who have less. There's a plethora of women who are engaged in something far bigger than themselves and outside of themselves, so we want to honor them and present them as role models for younger women.”

Wise and Harris intend the organization to be an inspiration for younger women who want to get involved in local charities. Since starting this journey, the pair has mentored members Tatyana Sharoubim Stewart, who is the group's creative director, and Dayle Hoffmann, communications director, and encouraged other members to do the same for younger members of the group. 

Harris was moved by the number of attendees at the honoree meeting. She believes that the mission resonated with people and is excited to see the impact this organization can have on the area. 

"I have five girls," said Bill Villafranco of Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation, as he announced the honorees at the Aug. 14 meeting. "To think that this organization can teach my five daughters a lesson or two about the importance of standing up, being in the front, and leading the charge means the world to me."