In honor of Women’s History Month, former WomenVenture board member Jenny Verner shares why she has been a dedicated supporter since 2009—and how you can help uplift women entrepreneurs.
Q: What made you decide to get involved with WomenVenture?
I’ve always been passionate about helping women succeed. When my daughter was born, I realized just how challenging it is to balance family and career. That experience made me deeply committed to making choices easier for other women. Throughout my career, WomenVenture became an avenue for me to contribute to that mission.
Over the years, I’ve raised three children, built a 37-year career at Cargill in various leadership roles, and enjoyed a 34-year marriage. Along the way, I’ve seen firsthand the challenges women face and how WomenVenture provides essential support to help them thrive.
Q: Why do you enjoy continuing to support WomenVenture?
I love the mission. WomenVenture doesn’t just help women become entrepreneurs—it ensures they truly understand the challenges and opportunities of business ownership. Their model is powerful because it combines training, mentorship, a supportive community, and access to funding. That kind of holistic support changes lives.
Q: What do you hope to accomplish through your philanthropy?
When I support an organization, I like to fully engage—learning how it operates, volunteering, and serving on committees. That often leads to financial contributions and board involvement, as it did with WomenVenture. I believe in WomenVenture’s leadership and their ability to create lasting change. The more donors they engage, the stronger their ability to grow and support more entrepreneurs.
Q: What do you wish everyone to know about WomenVenture?
I admire how WomenVenture helps people determine if entrepreneurship is the right path before they even become clients. Their collaborative approach—working with other nonprofits and community partners—strengthens the entire small business ecosystem.
“I always feel inspired, welcomed, and valued when I’m at WomenVenture. I hope others have the opportunity to experience that, too.”
Join Jenny in making a difference! Your donation directly funds training, lending, and business consulting programs that help women entrepreneurs build successful businesses.
