SEPTEMBER 14, 2026
PHOENIX, AZ (September 14, 2026) – Fresh Start’s Sip & Soirée, a vibrant fall luncheon held in benefit of the nonprofit’s mission to empower women, took place at the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess on Saturday, September 12. Presented by Phoenix Lending Group and hosted by Fresh Start’s Auxiliary Board, Sip & Soirée raised a record-breaking $850,000 to help provide comprehensive resources and workforce training programs to Arizona women on the path to self-sufficiency.
Led by event co-chairs Arden Anderson and Haley Wentworth, the afternoon kicked off with a sip and shop and other exciting activities for guests to enjoy, thanks to sponsors like Phoenix Lending Group, D.A.Ranch, Oliver Smith Jeweler, Swire Coca-Cola, Valley Toyota Dealers, Waymo, and many more. Attendees also had the opportunity to participate in raffles, including a designer handbag raffle featuring iconic brands like Chanel, FENDI, and Gucci, and a super raffle for thrilling vacation and dining packages.
The ballroom program featured emcee Andrea Robinson, former Valley News anchor, host, and community advocate, who spoke about the impact Fresh Start is making in the lives of women across the Valley. Nearly 800 guests were treated to a delicious meal and an energetic performance by Urban Electra, a local all-women electric violin group. After, NAME claimed first place for raising the most funds for Fresh Start during a pre-event fundraising face-off between the Event Ambassadors, sponsored by Lerner & Rowe Gives Back. The afternoon also celebrated Amy Lindsey as Volunteer of the Year and Leidan Mitchell as the Community Partner of the Year for their exceptional contributions to Fresh Start.
Fresh Start President & CEO Kim McWaters delivered a moving speech about the transformation possible in women’s lives when they are empowered, and an inspiring video about a Fresh Start woman was played for the audience. The event concluded with a generous paddle raise as auctioneer Anna Aja energized the community to donate in support of Fresh Start’s life-changing services and an exciting announcement for raffle winners.
Fresh Start’s mission is to provide access and resources that help women achieve self-sufficiency and use their strength to thrive. For 34 years, Fresh Start has supported more than 65,000 Arizona women. Through our signature Impact Program, Fresh Start offers comprehensive resources, education programs, and career services to help women reach their personal and professional goals. For more information, visit freshstartwomen.org or connect with us on Instagram, Facebook, or LinkedIn.