The purpose of the South Bay Women's Network is to promote the ideals of today's goal-oriented woman. The South Bay Women's Network is open to all women on all job levels and in every occupation. It offers an opportunity to meet with other interesting women, to share ideas, build friendships, and exchange support need for growth on a professional and personal level.
South Bay Women's Network meets each month and offers its members valuable networking time with other business women and informative presentations from a variety of speakers on topics relevant to business and the goals of business women.
History
The South Bay Women's Network was founded in 1983 by Jean Brown (formerly of Security Pacific Bank). She says, " There was no group for the women in the business community. I researched the different organizations and decided a network would be the best."
Jean gathered five other business women interested in the idea. They spread the word and 40 women showed up for an organizational meeting. The group was made up of business owners, employees, retirees and housewives. The only qualification to join was that you resided or worked in San Luis Obispo County. This is still in the Bylaws.
Among the original 10 women who made up the first governing body were Jean, Cathy Stalter, Judi Tewell, Connie Framberger, Diane McClish, Linda Villanueva and Rosa Metzler. A Steering Committee was formed with each member taking turns planning the meetings. The members shared information about their businesses and/or personal goals and listened to speakers.
Since 1988, the SBWN provides support and assistance to the Women's Shelter, Inc. of San Luis Obispo County and contributes to a Cuesta College Scholarship for adult women re-entry students. Many fundraisers are given annually to support these commitments, including the Holiday Dinner and Silent Auction, Annual Closet Swap and the Summer Evening Mixer.
The first meetings were held at Don Eduardo's Mexican Restaurant on 3rd Street in Baywood Park. Later, they were held at the Salty Pelican, Sea Pines Golf Resort, Hong Kong Restaurant and now the the Inn at Morro Bay in Morro Bay. Some of the original members have moved on, but the network has remained strong and a vital organization to the Los Osos-Morro Bay business women. SBWN is a member of the Los Osos/Baywood Park Chamber of Commerce.
Community Involvement
The South Bay Women's Network provides support and assistance to Women's Shelter, Inc. of San Luis Obispo County and contributes to a Cuesta College scholarship available to female adult re-entry students. The South Bay Women's Network holds many fundraisers annually to support these commitments. These include the Annual Holiday Dinner & Silent Auction, the Annual Closet Swap and the Summer Evening Mixer.
Membership
Annual membership dues are $45.00 due each April; Prorated Dues: $13.00/quarter. April-June: $45.00; July-Sept.: $39.00; Oct.-Dec.: $26.00; Jan.-Mar.: $13.00. Non-members are welcome to attend two luncheon meetings — then we hope you will join us as a member. To receive a membership application/brochure, please call 595-SBWN(7296).