L-R: Founder Pat Petznick, Katie Couric, and founder Beverly Stewart

On Saturday, Feb. 12, the Fresh Start Women’s Foundation held its 15th annual Fashion Gala event, hosted by CBS news anchor Katie Couric and held at the Arizona Biltmore Resort, to benefit the Jewell McFarland Lewis – Fresh Start Women’s Resource Center.

More than 850 guests turned out for cocktails at 6 p.m, followed by dinner, musical entertainment, dancing, a silent auction and a fashion show featuring Saks Fifth Avenue showcasing elegant ensembles from Oscar de la Renta’s pre-fall collection.

That evening, Founder’s Awards were bestowed upon Ina Manaster and Bill Post for the many years they’ve both supported Fresh Start.

During the course of the night, more than $1 million was raised to be put toward Fresh Start and the Jewell McFarland Lewis Resource Center. The organization provides support to women as they face various life transitions, presenting them with opportunities for new personal growth and professional development.

The event’s presenting sponsors included The Arizona Republic, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona and Westcor.

Learn more about the Fresh Start Women’s Foundation here.

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