The Tiffany Circle Fall Luncheon Highlights Philanthropy's Real-World Impact

On a sunny September day, Tiffany Circle members gathered at Richland Country Club for the organization’s annual fall luncheon. Since American Red Cross chair Bonnie McElveen-Hunter and board member Melanie Sabelhaus founded the Tiffany Circle in 2006, the organization has grown into a nationwide network — with chapters across the U.S. and in countries and regions around the world. Internationally, Tiffany Circle members have raised more than $300 million for the Red Cross and Red Crescent. 

Luncheon guests visited with event hostesses Barbara Bovender, Maxine Majors and Tracy Wade, enjoying hors d’oeuvres passed on silver trays. And when time came for the program, they eagerly found their seats. 

Featured speaker Kate Forbes promptly took the stage, sharing a crucial lesson on leadership she’s learned in her role as president of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies. “We come in thinking we know what’s best,” Kate said. “And we don’t. We need to listen more.” 

One of the afternoon’s most poignant moments came as Kate shared images and stories from her work in communities across the globe. Her role introduces her to humanitarian workers, refugees and people living in active war zones. And she spoke candidly about the impossible weight of making decisions with limited resources — knowing those choices can determine who receives lifesaving assistance.

“Sometimes I feel like I’m living Sophie’s choice every day,” Kate said. “Because I know that where we send funding, people will live, and lots of places where we don’t have the funding, they’re not.”

She then welcomed questions from women seated around the luncheon tables — opening up about everything from her personal safety while traveling to what drives her to continue her work.

“Each and every one of us has the opportunity to make a difference,” Kate said. “I meet so many women around the world that don’t have that opportunity.”