The 2008 Women's Justice Benefit Luncheon raised more than $250,000 in pledges to paid over the next five years. About $60,000 in general operating funds will be used in 2009. Thanks to a major sponsorship from Southgate Mall and other sponsors First Security Bank and Western States Insurance, all the money raised will go directly to YWCA programs.

"This was our best luncheon yet," said development director Julie Maturen. "We are so grateful to our table captains who helped us nearly double our attendance to more than 400 people. It is a privilege to see this kind of community committment to helping Missoula's women and children in need."

The YWCA added 20 new members to the Circle of Change, the organization's multi-year giving society, for a total of 46 members. At the luncheon, 135 brand new donors pledged their support for the YWCA's mission to eliminate racism and empower women. One generous $10,000 gift will be used to start a revolving loan fund to help women leaving the shelter or transitional housing with rental deposits.

"The loan fund will help women who are ready to move through our programs more quickly," Maturen said. "This will enable us to serve more people who need us, cutting down on our long waiting list for transitional housing apartments ," Maturen said.

YWCA Missoula has used their current fundraising model for the past three years. The strategy is entirely mission-based and focuses on bringing in people who will spread their passion for the YWCA to their friends and colleagues in a variety of ways.