What’s the recipe for a perfect International Women’s Day fundraiser? Three cups of generosity, two heaping tablespoons of kindness, a dash of girl power, and a whole lot of pasta. This year for International Women’s Day, Oakville REALTOR® Virginia Munden hosted her first annual When in Rome Pasta Night in support of the Royal LePage Shelter Foundation. This thoughtfully conceived event links the foundation’s mission of supporting women to the global celebration of women on March 8.
About 30 women, including a few REALTORS®, past clients, and friends came together to meet other women who they can relate to, and talk about how they overcame challenges as a woman. “It’s not just about raising money, it’s about connecting people. I think that’s so important in the work that we do,” says Virginia. “Make it a networking event where people can meet others that can lead, encourage and support them.”
Along with ticket sales, funds were raised through an auction and a raffle.
For Munden, being involved in her community and giving back has always been a priority. “Getting involved puts us in touch with reality,” she explains. “We had a fantastic year in real estate back in 2017, and it’s been a little more challenging in 2018 and 2019, but staying connected to community helps to keep us grounded. As a REALTOR® you always need to be aware of what else is out there in the community, because community isn’t about the million-dollar homes, it’s about the people.”
Virginia offered some pasta-tively great advice to fellow REALTORS®: “Start today, choose a charity you’re really passionate about, and make it an annual event. You have to be consistent! If you start from the very first day you will always be known as a humble agent that’s always given back. You want to be known as more than a real estate agent.”
