Members of the Vero Beach chapter of the American Association of University Women transformed the Emerson Center into a “comedy club” for its Best Friends Variety Hour fundraiser, believing that laughter is not only the best medicine, but can also be a powerful engine for education.
While the mission of the nonprofit AAUW to promote equity, education and opportunities for women and girls is no laughing matter, supporters did just that during the enjoyable afternoon.
The high-energy comedy show, written and performed by comedians and “best friends” Kristin Finger and Alli Soowal, was a poignant reminder that you can get through nearly anything with your best friend by your side.
Finger and Soowal, who have been performing together for nearly 20 years, brought a chemistry to the stage that could only have been forged by genuine friendship. Their performance was equal parts soulmate journey, comedy sketches and improvisation.
Finger told the audience they had been through it all together – the good, the bad, and the hilarious – throughout their friendship.
Soowal agreed, adding that there is nothing more powerful than women supporting women. And while the AAUW does it through education and sponsorships, they do it by taking their show on the road to celebrate the messy, beautiful reality of friendship.
Event chair Linda Barker emphasized the critical need for community support, explaining that every ticket and donation goes directly into the hands of women in the community who are striving to better their lives through education. Barker noted that they aren’t just giving out checks, but investing in future leaders.
Cassandra Smith, director of nursing at WillowBrooke Court at Indian River Estates, was an AAUW scholarship recipient and spoke of the impact it made on her own life and that of her daughter, Cordeja Lockett, a recent LPN graduate from the Treasure Coast Technical College.
Smith was the first recipient of the stipend in 2018 and graduated from the LPN program at No. 3 in her class. She was determined to improve her status in life and persevered through the deaths of family members, the pandemic, divorce and a flooded home. She is currently working toward a bachelor’s degree and plans to pursue a master’s.
Smith explained that the scholarship didn’t just pay for books and tuition; it boosted her confidence. Knowing that someone believed in her, allowed her to focus on her studies instead of worrying about how to afford the next semester.
The AAUW provides college scholarships and critical stipends for women enrolled in vocational training, providing a lifeline for those who cannot work while they’re enrolled in intensive studies.
The national AAUW, one of the oldest pulpits promoting women’s rights, has been empowering women since 1881. The local chapter recently celebrated its 60th anniversary, having been established by 54 charter members in 1964.
For more information, visit AAUWVeroBeach.org.
Photos by Joshua Kodis
