
Fresh Start’s Sip & Soirée Returns to the Valley to Celebrate Strength, Resilience, Sisterhood, and Community Impact
Fresh Start Women’s Foundation invites the community to its annual Sip & Soirée, a vibrant luncheon fundraiser celebrating strength, sisterhood, and the courage of Arizona women changing their lives. Set against the backdrop of the newly remodeled JW Marriott Desert Ridge Resort & Spa, the event will take place on Saturday, September 13, from 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
Hosted by Fresh Start’s Auxiliary Board, Sip & Soirée brings the community together to uplift women on the path to economic independence and personal empowerment. Every dollar raised helps fund Fresh Start’s wraparound services that empower women to overcome barriers, build career paths, and achieve long-term self-sufficiency for themselves and their children.
The impact is real, and the stories are powerful. “For over 30 years, Fresh Start has walked alongside more than 60,000 women as they overcome barriers and take steps toward building a better future,” said Kim McWaters, President and CEO of Fresh Start. “Sip & Soirée is a chance to celebrate those journeys and invite the community to play a role in transforming lives.”
The event kicks off with an interactive Sip & Shop marketplace featuring local vendors, activity stations, and mocktails and wine. After exploring the marketplace, guests will head into the ballroom for a seated luncheon with live entertainment, heartfelt stories, and a few fun surprises along the way.
This year’s event highlights include:
- Sip & Shop Marketplace – A curated selection of local businesses and interactive experiences, paired with refreshing wine and mocktails.
- Gourmet Luncheon – Delicious lunch and live entertainment.
- Luxury Handbag & Super Raffle – Exclusive prizes including designer bags and premium packages.
- Community Partner, Volunteer, and Fundraising Ambassador Celebrations – Recognition of dedicated supporters who champion Fresh Start’s mission.
“Sip & Soirée is more than just an event; it’s a movement that champions women’s success, resilience, and empowerment,” said Stephanie Saccente, Event Co-Chair. “This year, with a stunning new venue and a fresh, vibrant brand, we’re taking the event to the next level in both impact and experience.”
Major sponsors include Valley Toyota Dealers, Phoenix Lending Group, UMB Bank, Waymo, and Phoenix Raceway, along with longtime partners such as D.A.Ranch Estate Vineyards, Cushman & Wakefield Industrial Capital Markets, and Dorsey & Whitney, LLP.
Sponsorship opportunities are available now, and individual tickets go on sale May 21. Learn more at www.freshstartwomen.org/sip.
About Fresh Start Women’s Foundation
Fresh Start’s mission is to provide access and resources that help women achieve self-sufficiency and use their strength to thrive. Our ultimate vision is to create unlimited opportunities for women. For over three decades, Fresh Start has supported more than 60,000 Arizona women, serving more than 5,000 women each year who are 18 years and older. 62% are single mothers, 67% make an annual income less than $25k, and 68% are domestic violence survivors. These women face a variety of barriers hindering their ability to be personally or financially self-sufficient, including generational poverty and unemployment. Fresh Start offers focused programs, services, access to training and education, as well as employment and career services to help women reach their personal and professional goals through our signature Impact Program. For more information, visit www.freshstartwomen.org or connect with us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, or LinkedIn.