History

The Genesee/Lookout Mountain Circle was founded by two current members, Helen Gair and Karen Barker. Helen first heard about Friendship Bridge in 2002 and then became more familiar with the organization when her daughter served in the Peace Corps in Santiago, Guatemala and worked for Friendship Bridge there.

In May of 2004, Helen and Karen took action, motivated by a shared interest in microcredit and education as tools for empowering poor women globally. They held a luncheon to explore starting a circle and 18 people attended from the communities of Genesee and Lookout Mountain. Since then the Circle has exhibited its enthusiasm and creativity in the variety of its fundraising events: wine tastings and gourmet dinners, art sales, a western barbeque, sales of handicrafts made by Mayan women, Persian rug sales, and a pottery sale.

Why we support Friendship Bridge

Our Circle likes to support Friendship Bridge clients because we are a committed group of women passionate about global women’s issues. During our visits to Guatemala, we have observed firsthand the benefits of microcredit and the difference it makes in the lives of our clients and their families. As a Circle, we feel supported and appreciated by the Friendship Bridge staff.