The Establishment of the Business and Professional Development Fund
When Phil Friend lost his wife of 25 years, he felt compelled to do something that would keep her memory alive. Peggy Friend was a woman who wore many hats. She was a loving mother of four who remained very active in the daily operations of her parents' business while she raised her family. She later went on to work in the real estate business and became a highly successful real estate agent. Peggy was the epitome of grace and always gave 110% no matter what cards she was dealt. So when she was diagnosed with breast cancer, her hard work ethic did not waiver, she was readily there for her family and she fought her battle with cancer like a true warrior . She was a strong supporter of education and when she ultimately lost her battle, Phil was determined to do something in her memory that would reflect all of her hard work and values.
For many years, Phil and friends, Tommy and Nadine DiPaolo, gave a scholarship to a graduating senior in Peggy's honor. Although Phil was pleased to give scholarships, he yearned for the effort to have greater perpetuity. When the WEEF board came up with the naming opportunity concept, it seemed appropriate to make a commitment. Phil committed $10,000 to the Business & Professional Development Fund over three years so that awards from this fund would carry Peggy's name. His hope was that grants from this fund would help students develop some of the same attributes his wife had - good common sense, good business sense, extraordinary sales ability, strong communication skills and an ability to close the deal.
The Peggy Friend Business and Professional Development Fund has grown to be the largest of all directed funds thanks to the generosity of Phil, his family, friends and an entire community rallying to honor Peggy. The Friend Family was the first to take advantage of the naming opportunity for a specific grant and as a result, have established a legacy of giving. If you would like to learn more about naming opportunities for directed giving funds, please inquire through our contact form.
For many years, Phil and friends, Tommy and Nadine DiPaolo, gave a scholarship to a graduating senior in Peggy's honor. Although Phil was pleased to give scholarships, he yearned for the effort to have greater perpetuity. When the WEEF board came up with the naming opportunity concept, it seemed appropriate to make a commitment. Phil committed $10,000 to the Business & Professional Development Fund over three years so that awards from this fund would carry Peggy's name. His hope was that grants from this fund would help students develop some of the same attributes his wife had - good common sense, good business sense, extraordinary sales ability, strong communication skills and an ability to close the deal.
The Peggy Friend Business and Professional Development Fund has grown to be the largest of all directed funds thanks to the generosity of Phil, his family, friends and an entire community rallying to honor Peggy. The Friend Family was the first to take advantage of the naming opportunity for a specific grant and as a result, have established a legacy of giving. If you would like to learn more about naming opportunities for directed giving funds, please inquire through our contact form.
