Women in Philanthropy PETALS Program

The PETALS program through Women in Philanthropy is a mentoring initiative to lead women to become powerful philanthropists through leadership, fundraising and community service. PETALS stands for Philanthropy Education to Advance Leadership. Women of all ages can use a mentor, and this program utilizes the strengths and experience of established philanthropic women to teach others how to be philanthropic leaders themselves.

The long term goal of PETALS is to have the most experienced Women in Philanthropy members mentor the less philanthropically experienced members who will then mentor young college students. We will even reach high school girls with this mentoring effort as it grows. Until then, a pilot program is in place with Women in Philanthropy women mentoring college students from Columbia College.

All mentors are required to undergo a mentor training session and encourage philanthropy, leadership, independence, and problem solving proficiency. The benefits to those being mentored will include building career clarification, assertion, self-confidence, and decision-making skills. Mentors meet with mentees at least once a month and are encouraged to correspond regularly throughout each month of the mentorship.

Women in Philanthropy is becoming much more inclusive to women who have limited financial resources. Members are encouraged to give at levels in which they are comfortable, and whether one gives at the $1,000 level or $250 level, any Women in Philanthropy member may enroll in the PETALS program. Involvement is not based on age or giving levels. It is PETALS' mission to encourage, inspire, and lead women of all ages and all walks of life to become powerful philanthropists that will make a positive difference in the lives of women and children.

If you are interested in learning more about this program or have any questions regarding the PETALS mentoring program, please contact Keely Saye at keely.saye@morganstanley.com or call (803) 251-3270. Or you can sign up for the Petals or Flowers programs by printing PDF forms and returning them by mail or fax.