In the spring of 2019 Sarah Hillyer and Tammy McCarron were attending a fundraiser for a local hospital. Sarah and Tammy worked together supporting other charities in the past.
During conversation, Tammy mentioned learning about an organization called 100 Women Who Care and wondered why there was not a chapter in the Toronto West community.
Sarah responded that her friend Orysia Sozanski had recently brought this organization to her attention and they were in discussion about starting one for the West End. Tammy offered her assistance. Orysia recruited her good friend Louise Moran and the group began researching the 100 Women Who Care model.
During this time, they became aware of three other women in the neighbourhood, Laura Barker, Sue Mazan and Oricia Smith who were also interested in forming a local chapter.
The original “group of seven” founding steering committee members was formed and went to work creating 100 Women Who Care Toronto West.
While they went through numerous challenges during COVID, learning curves and growing pains, they were overwhelmed by the support of women in this wonderful community. Almost 200 ladies came to the inaugural meeting in the Fall of 2019, raising over $18,000.00 for a local grass roots charity.
After a few amazing years, new career opportunities presented themselves to Oricia Smith, Sue Mazan and Laura Barker. Anna Santilli who had been a key volunteer figure for the chapter joined the steering committee.
In 2024, Lori McKnight , who always brought creative ideas and suggestions forward was asked to join the committee.
In early 2025, Sarah, Orysia and Louise felt it was time to bring in new steering committee members with fresh ideas. We did a callout and five new kind and talented women joined the steering committee in 2025. Sarah, Orysia and Louise stepped down in October of that year.
As of Spring 2026, our Steering Committee members include these wonderful, energetic and passionate women who commit their time to grow our chapter. We are a collaborative team with complementary skillsets. While we work together on everything, here is a short overview of our roles.
Feel free to reach any of us at torontowest100womenwhocare@gmail.com
2026 Steering Committee Members
Tammy McCarron, Banking and Donations |
Anna Santilli, Speaker Coach and Presentation Slides |
Danielle Bianco, Digital Email Diva |
Lori McKnight, Social Media and Volunteer Coordinator |
Karen Hales, Website and Business Community Partnerships |
Kathy Kruk, Charity Nominations Lead |
Kate Brundage, Member Relations and Community Builder |
| Patrice Lindsay, Guest Speaker Recruitment and Community Builder |
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