The Girlfriend Factor kicked off a milestone 20th anniversary celebration at its signature Club Cabana event recently at the Grand Hyatt Resort in Indian Wells.
The Caribbean-inspired event began with prominent men in the community serving as “Cabana Boys,” presenting high-end auction packages for guests to bid on. The Cabana Boy associated with the highest-selling package earned the coveted title of “The Big Kahuna.”
While the tropical theme has remained a staple, the evening has evolved over the years to feature unique entertainment — including dueling pianos in past years. This year’s offerings included “sip escapes,” such as a rum tasting and specialty Mai Tai cocktail, helping guests feel as though they had been transported to the islands. A steel drum ensemble set the beachside scene during the opening reception before transforming into a live band following the program and auction, performing classic favorites that kept the dance floor full throughout the evening.
This year’s event held special significance as Girlfriend Factor celebrates two decades dedicated to helping motivated women improve their economic position through education, support and community encouragement.
Since its founding, the organization has provided educational assistance through its Go Girl! Grant Program, helping more than 240 local women pursue four-year degrees and occupational certifications.
To date, Girlfriend Factor has awarded more than $915,000 in grants, with most recipients remaining here in the workforce — strengthening families and the local economy. The education grants are renewable, and Girlfriend Factor sticks with recipients through their educational journey until they graduate. Many of them are still in the community — now teachers, dental hygienists, nurses, lawyers and cosmetologists, among other careers – giving back to the Coachella Valley.
The organization hopes to surpass $1 million in grants during its 20th year, and Club Cabana marked the first step toward that goal. This year, the annual GoGirl! Luncheon will be expanded with a new format and theme, “The Power of Her Impact,” on Nov. 13 at the Grand Hyatt Resort in Indian Wells.
To learn more or to make a donation, visit girlfriendfactor.org.
Andrea Carter is the owner of the locally based marketing and PR firm Andrea Carter & Associates. She serves as a member of the board and the PR director for the Patrick Warburton Celebrity Golf Tournament.
This article originally appeared on Palm Springs Desert Sun: The Girlfriend Factor has been changing women’s lives for two decades
Reporting by Andrea Carter, Special to The Desert Sun / Palm Springs Desert Sun
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
By Andrea Carter, Special to The Desert Sun | USA TODAY Network
