Our History ~The Inspiration for Fresh Start
Pat Petznick and Beverly Stewart were inspired to create a women’s organization, in tribute to the life of their paternal grandmother, Autie Jones. Autie was only 29 when her husband died of tuberculosis, leaving her to raise their young boys ages 1, 2 and 3. There were no relatives nearby to lend support, so she kept her family together by living in the back room of a grocery store where she worked. By day, she was a store clerk and at night, she shared precious moments with her sons while ironing other’s clothes. Within a year, sadly her oldest son also died. Autie’s life was full of financial and emotional hardship, yet she courageously chose to celebrate the blessings of every situation. This courageous woman was the inspiration for her granddaughters to reach out to women who struggle to survive. Fresh Start was born as a result.
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The Foundation is Formed
Mission: Fresh Start is dedicated to helping women help themselves.
In 1995 the sisters formalized a foundation and established their first Board of Directors. In the early years, the foundation focused on fundraising and granting money to Arizona nonprofits serving women in need. Through the course of that granting process it became apparent there were gaps in the services for women being offered in our community. First, the Mentoring Program was formed and as a result then finally, the Women’s Resource Center. As the organization grew, two new boards were added bringing an impressive array or community leaders to the effort.
For information on our latest fundraiser: Fashion Gala