2026 Irene's Dream Luncheon: Celebrating Dreams, Strength, and Self-Sufficiency

On April 11, 2026, the Bartko Foundation brought together community leaders, supporters, advocates, and friends for the 2026 Irene's Dream Luncheon & Boutique Shopping, an inspiring annual event dedicated to empowering single mothers and celebrating the transformative power of opportunity.

The grand ballroom of the DoubleTree Hotel–Greentree in Pittsburgh was filled with supporters who share a commitment to helping women and families build brighter futures. Faith Ndiga, whose perseverance is truly emblematic of the Bartko mission, was recognized as this year’s Irene O. Bartko (IOB) Grant Award recipient. The foundation was also thrilled to honor Barbara Cooley-Thaw as the IOB 2026 volunteer for her long-time support. Rev. Dr Patrice Fowler-Searcy served as this year’s Mistress of Ceremonies and Dr. Dina Clark was honorary chair. Thank you to all who made this fund raiser so incredibly special.

The luncheon is more than a fundraising event, it is a celebration of resilience, determination, and community. Named in honor of Irene Bartko, whose legacy of generosity and compassion continues to guide the foundation's work, Irene's Dream Luncheon reflects the belief that every woman deserves the opportunity to pursue her goals and achieve self-sufficiency. Funds raised through the 2026 Irene's Dream Luncheon will directly support the Bartko Foundation's mission of helping women achieve the independence and self-sufficiency they seek for themselves and their children…making dreams come true.

Corporate Sponsors:

Helping Hands

Wolfe Charitable Foundation

Propulsion Squared

Benefactors

Birmingham Foundation

Pittsburgh Scholar House

UPMC Health Plan

Champions

Brashear Association

Children’s Sickle Cell Foundation

Duolingo

Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh

Michelle Figlar & Greg Quinlan

Trying Together

Pictures from 2026 Luncheon