Jeanne Porter, the founder of Women in Business Networking (WiBN) and Women in Christian Network, has always been driven by a desire to support and empower women in business.
Starting a networking organization for women during a recession was no easy feat, but Jeanne proved that with the right approach and a lot of determination, it was possible. When asked about the beginnings of WiBN, Jeanne pointed to a valuable piece of advice she received early on. She was encouraged to find a unique angle that would set her organization apart from the thousands of networking groups already in existence.
Taking this advice to heart, Jeanne set about creating a suite of diverse opportunities for women to connect and grow professionally. Understanding that not all women can be available at the same time, WiBN began hosting a variety of events at different times to suit everyone’s schedules. This approach quickly saw the organization grow to host an impressive 150 events annually.
Recognition is another important aspect of WiBN’s mission. Jeanne noticed that while there were a few programs recognizing women in the Dayton, OH area, the number of women honored was quite limited. To address this, she created a “25 Women to Watch” gala event, providing a platform for women who might not receive recognition for their contributions to the community. This initiative has celebrated over 500 women so far.
However, the journey was not without its challenges. As the organization quickly grew, Jeanne found herself overwhelmed with the sheer amount of work it required. Recognizing that she couldn’t do it alone, she brought together an advisory board and leadership team to share the responsibilities. This not only eased her workload but further strengthened the organization through collaboration and shared vision.
Jeanne’s story is a powerful testament to the impact that one person can have when they see a need in their community and take action to address it. Her advice to other transformational leaders is to care about others and look for ways to integrate your life with the lives of others.
Jeanne’s vision, determination, and passion for empowering women have created a lasting legacy in the Dayton community. The WiBN, now a program of the Better Business Bureau in Dayton, Ohio, continues to flourish, serving women and the community at large.
For someone interested in entrepreneurship, leadership, women’s empowerment, and making a tangible impact in their community, Jeanne Porter’s journey is a source of inspiration and a testament to the power of vision and collaboration.
