Host a Home Party
Why? Simple: Because it’s fun and empowers women to become entrepreneurial and self-sufficient!
"Thank you so much for the great party you threw at Ann’s that showcased so many artists’ talent. I bought several Christmas gifts that are totally unique." -- Mary H.
“It’s for a good cause and you get some truly unique things such as handmade silk scarves, jewelry, notecards, paintings and other gift items, all made by women EWI help become self-sufficient” says Ann Stone, who has been hosting home parties to benefit EWI for more than five years. I have some fussy friends who bug me all year long as to when EWI’s Party will be again… they bought unique items for themselves that folks comment on all year long. I have other friends who say that their friends tell them the gift they bought here was their favorite!”
Another supporter, Synthia Woodcock-Dang who hosted an EWI home party says that “… the purpose of the these parties is threefold: (1) to introduce EWI and its good works to the community, (2) once people hear the artists’ own stories and experiences with EWI, the attendees often want to make a donation to give scholarships or support the program, or become involved with EWI, and (3) promote and sell the artwork made by EWI’s women artist. There are many level of artists and many different products.
At my house the gorgeous hand made silk scarves were a hit, but also the handmade note cards and some exquisite (wall) artwork were also offered. So, the home parties offer a chance to promote EWI’s women art and great work in the community, hear short presentations from the artists and EWI staff , and just get together in a comfortable setting to empower women.”
"That was a lot of fun! I still get compliments on the earrings I bought last year." -- Lee S
In 2009, EWI presented over 30 parties across the Washington DC Metro area hosted by our supporters, volunteers and local businesses. People are opening their hearts and home to host a party for EWI and tell the transformational stories of the women we serve.
Students as various colleges across the region host EWI parties in campuses to educate young people about the power of social entrepreneurship, leadership, responsibility and civic engagement.
Host an EWI party and empower women! To learn more download our 
Host an EWI Party (42.4 KiB)
Email Marga to book a party or learn more.
Host an EWI Henna Party: A Fun Way to Empower Women
An Interview with Gowri, the hostess of a henna party to benefit EWI
1. How did you come to find our about the opportunity to host a henna party?
When I first met Sharmila a few months ago, I asked her if she ever does henna parties and she said yes. I then told her that I’d recently moved into a house with some roommates and was planning to do an all women’s lunch at some point to introduce my friends to each other. It seemed like a great idea to also have Sharmila over to do henna and to use the opportunity to raise money for EWI.
2. What motivated you to host a fundraiser henna party?
I am pretty good about making charitable donations to various organizations whose missions are in line with my values. However, I’ve never hosted a fundraiser before. Because it was so informal and there weren’t many (or any) “hoops” to jump through before hosting it, it came together very naturally and felt more like organizing any other get-together with friends who share common interests than a more formal fundraiser.
"My friends absolutely loved the party. We had a great time, enjoyed the mesmerizing henna designs and raised funds to support EWI's work. Can't wait to do another one soon." -- Gowri K.
3. What did you do to make your house fundraiser a success?
Invited lots of wonderful women who I knew would appreciate supporting such a great organization; had a small buffet of Indian food and champagne mixed drinks for refreshment; and continuously walked around to talk about EWI with the guests and gently remind them where the donation table was located (just inside the front door — with pamphlets on EWI and an email sign-up sheet).
4. How did your friends who come to this event felt?
Everyone loved it and I heard talk of other friends wanting to host similar events. It was also a wonderful afternoon of female bonding.
5. If you would host another fundraiser in the future, would you do anything differently?
All I would do differently is invite more people!
– Gowri Koneswaran, The Humane Society of the United States