Indulge ... in a Cause

GVSU Women's Center works to continue scholarships and quality programs

Indulge in some of the area's best chocolate desserts and great entertainment during Indulge in a Cause. That is the theme for this year's fundraising event sponsored by Grand Valley State University's Women's Center.

The fundraiser will benefit both the Women's Scholarship Fund and the Women's Center Program Fund. The Scholarship Fund benefits non-traditional students who may not qualify for other financial aid. The Program Fund allows the center to plan programs and services that are designed to enhance personal growth on gender issues and to advocate for institutional and societal change where inequity exists.

"The Women's Center is active both on campus and in the community to promote and support the success of women," said Marlene Kowalski-Braun, director of the Women's Center. "The money raised will allow the center to continue to enrich and improve lives by providing scholarship support and high-quality programs and services."

Quiana Broden, a senior at Grand Valley, knows first-hand the benefits of the Women's Center. Broden said she was drawn to the center because of its diversity. "Anyone who knows me knows that I like to hang out with people of all races," said Broden. "When I am at the Women's Center, I feel like I belong." Broden said that relationship was key when she found out she was pregnant with her daughter two years ago. "I was scared," she said, "but I found strength and encouragement from a mom's group I attended through the center. I thought about adoption, but now I'm so happy I have my 2-year-old little girl." Broden, a senior who will earn her bachelor's degree in Sociology in April, sits on the Women's Center Advisory Board.

Indulge in a Cause Thursday, February 3, 2005 5-7 p.m. in the Exhibition Hall (outside of Loosemoore Auditorium) DeVos Center, Pew Grand Rapids Campus

Tickets are $15 in advance, $20 if purchased at the event, $5 for GVSU students

The evening will include coffee bar, a variety of chocolates to purchase, an auction and entertainment provided by "Lime Jello." Tickets are available through the Women's Center at 616-331-2748 or by e-mail at [email protected]. For more information, contact Jo Ann Wassenaar, assistant director of the Women's Center at 616-331-2748 or Grand Valley's News and Information Services Department at 616-331-2221.