The Atlanta Women’s Foundation raised $1.2 million at its annual “Numbers Too Big to Ignore” luncheon last month, continuing a nearly 30-year tradition of supporting nonprofits that serve women and girls across metro Atlanta.
This year’s event at the Georgia World Congress Center drew 1,600 guests and featured broadcast journalist Hoda Kotb.
The former cohost of NBC’s Today Show was in conversation with journalist Cheryl Preheim, discussing purpose and resilience.
Kotb, 61, is the author of the newly released book, “Jump and Find Joy: Embracing Change in Every Season of Life.”
During the luncheon, she talked about the inspirations behind her decision to adopt at age 52. The carefree nature of one of Kotb’s daughters gave her the clarity and courage to follow her own inner voice, which led to leaving the Today Show, she said.
“Whatever it is that you want — speak it out loud,” she said. “Whatever it is, it doesn’t matter. Just say it… Things happen when you speak life into them.”
Kotb was diagnosed with breast cancer in her 40s, she said, and recalled a conversation with a fellow passenger on a flight during her recovery. Sensing her resistance to that chapter of her life, the man told her how each person’s story of personal trials is not always theirs to keep and not share with others. He told her that sometimes we endure difficult seasons so we can help someone else through theirs.
Kari B. Love, CEO of the Atlanta Women’s Foundation, said Kotb’s message is aligned deeply with the foundation’s mission.
“Hoda reminded us that joy and purpose can grow out of even the hardest seasons of life,” Love said, in a statement. “Her message beautifully reflected Atlanta Women’s Foundation’s mission: that when women are given the right support and opportunity, they transform not only their own lives, but entire communities.”
Since its founding in 1998, the Atlanta Women’s Foundation has invested more than $30 million into programs that advance the lives of women and girls. The annual luncheon has featured Madeleine Albright, Maya Angelou, Jane Fonda, Gloria Steinem, Jill Biden, and Laura Bush, among other notable speakers.
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