Happy Mothers Day to all our KV reader moms, and especially to one of our favorite mothers, who has a special message for us on this very special day. While flowers and gifts are a great way to show your appreciation, a lot of moms and grandmothers are going to need much more than that, and Teresa reminds us of the importance of looking ahead and planning for the financial security of all people, women in particular.
A tireless advocate for women, Teresa Heinz addressed the issue of retirement security in a Daily Kos diary and Mothers Day video yesterday, and introduced a free e-book, "What Women Need to Know about Retirement". As the founder of WISER, the Women's Institute for a Secure Retirement, Teresa has a history of addressing this critical issue.
A native of Southwestern Pennsylvania, I have long known of the philanthropic works and the influence of the Heinz family. You can't navigate the city of Pittsburgh without knowing where Heinz Hall, Heinz Chapel, Heinz Field, the Heinz plant, the Sarah Heinz House and the Heinz History Museum are. But what I didn't know until the last few years is how deeply involved Teresa has been in the issue of women's health and other concerns specific to women.
What's particularly striking to me is the personal investment she makes in these projects. She doesn't just throw cash at them, she actually shows up. And not just to give a speech, but to hang out and chat with participants of events she sponsors, like the one I attended last year, her Women's Health and the Environment conference, which she began in 1996 and has been offering free to the public every year since. Her advocacy isn't a one-shot deal, but a lifelong commitment, and for that she deserves our great thanks.
Video Credit: teresaheinz
So, when you hand mom her hydrangea today, give her the link to the e-book, too. What could be more thoughtful than to let her know you care about her future?
Comments (1)
Posted by Raelynne | May 11, 2008 11:58 PM
Thank you for posting this. I just love her. Happy Mother's Days Teresa and all mothers out there.