Mt. Diablo Business Women started anew in 1994, after disbanding from BPW (Business & Professional Women’s Group). This was a national group and a large part of our dues was going to a national organization which we felt did not support our local women and their businesses.

Our small group at the time pulled together and renamed ourselves Mt. Diablo Business Women. Judy Maatz, Pat Scott, Raelene Fenk, Marlise Kalsbeek-Cook, Wendy Freeborn, and I were dedicated to making it work. Judy was doing Publicity, Pat was our secretary, Raelene our Program Chair, Marlise our Treasurer, and Wendy made phone calls. I was President and Newsletter Editor. The two years prior were tough times, but we had some loyal members that came every month. The membership has continued to grow to over 50 members. As membership grew, so did our friendships and businesses through referrals.

Since we are nonprofit, we wanted to make a difference in the community in which we lived in. For three years now, we have sponsored Wardrobe for Opportunity’s Woman of the Year by awarding two deserving women $500 each. Each year a luncheon is held in May, and we are one of the major sponsors of the event. When our budget allows, we also contribute to Stand! Against Domestic Violence.

I’m excited about our progress, our attentive board and fellow members. Come and join us, and I look forward to meeting you soon.

August 15, 2003
Mary Hardeman-Schulze, Founder, MDBW