2023 IRENE’S DREAM LUNCHEON & BOUTIQUE SHOPPING

Over 200 friends and supporters of the Bartko Foundation enjoyed the 15th annual Irene’s Dream Luncheon at the Westin Pittsburgh Hotel on April 29, 2023.Prior to the program, the guests enjoyed shopping from the 21 boutique vendors. The majority of the vendors representlocal, women owned businesses. Some of the vendors were recent startup businesses, supported by Catapult Greater Pittsburgh, while others are long time luncheon participants. Guests took the opportunity to shop with friends for everything from delicious food products to clothing and accessories and flower arrangements.

Dr. Kathy Humphrey, president of Carlow University, served as honorary chair. Tammy Thompson, Director of Catapult Greater Pittsburgh returned again this year as mistress of ceremonies. Both women delivered grateful and motivating messages in support of the foundation’s mission, noting that the Bartko Foundation steps in to assist women most in need of support in achieving self-determined goals.

As one guest remarked, “What better reason to get together than to support one another and celebrate the persistence and power of women - women who refuse to accept their circumstances as the end of their journey. I was inspired by the two amazing foundation grant recipients who were recognized by the foundation.”

We are also sincerely and deeply grateful for the amazing women who make this vital, yet delightful, event possible and are such a joy to work with:

Debra Bruckman and Liz Brandimarti – Vendor Chairs

Rita Deluzio – Table Sponsor Chairwoman

Michele Figlar - Coporate Sponsorship Chair

Megan Gefert - Registration Chair

Monica Lee – PR/Social Media Chairwoman

Planning Committee Members

Jensina Chutz

LaTrenda Sherrill

Bridget Shaginaw

Karen Stauffer

Tammy Thompson

Finally, thank you to our Sponsors. Because of them, the 2023 event was one of the most successful Irene’s Dream Luncheon & Boutique Shopping Event!

Helping Hands Sponsors

The Heinz Endowments

Propulsion Squared

Catapult Greater Pittsburgh

Benefactor Sponsors

AMPCO-Pittsburgh Charitable Foundation

Birmingham Foundation

Catapult Greater Pittsburgh

Leading to Movement

University of PIttsburgh

UPMC Health Plan

Champion Sponsors

Amerserv Bank

Denny Civic Solutions

Eat'nPark

Michelle Figlar & Greg Quinlan

Bruce Gephardt

PNC Bank

Trying Together

Pictures from 2023 Luncheon