This October, The Century in downtown Modesto came alive with inspiration as the Women’s Education & Leadership League (WELL) marked its ten-year anniversary at Rising WELL. The elegant luncheon brought together civic leaders, philanthropists, and business champions to celebrate the women and mothers whose courage and commitment are rewriting their futures—and reshaping our community.

 

Founded in 2015, WELL is a 100% volunteer-run nonprofit dedicated to providing life-changing financial literacy, leadership development, wellness education, and mentorship to underserved women and moms across California. WELL’s mission is simple yet transformative: when women have the tools and support, they need to thrive, they not only change their own lives—they change everything around them.

 

WELL’s Co-Founder and President, Alana Scott Clayton moved the audience sharing stories of WELL Graduates throughout the years and invited these courageous women in Modesto on stage to encourage and inspire the audience with their transformations. 

 

One memorable graduate story came from Veronica Nunez, who first came to WELL while homeless and struggling to care for her children. Through WELL’s Living WELL program, she learned budgeting, goal setting, and confidence. Supported by WELL’s college scholarship and her WELL mentor, Veronica returned to school, earning a bachelor’s degree in Sociology from Stanislaus State. Today, Veronica works in a career she is passionate about—and voluntarily serves as a WELL mentor and leader, reaching her hand back to lift other women.

 

Another highlight was Taje Fields, a recent graduate who joined WELL through the Downtown Streets Team partnership. Taje set a financial goal to find employment. With guidance from her WELL mentor, she built a résumé, developed community connections, and—just one week before graduation—accepted her dream job with the Modesto Police Department as a Maintenance Aid. Her success story earned a standing ovation, capturing the very spirit of Rising WELL.

 

 

Moderated by Danielle Lohmann; this powerful discussion featured leading women who personify resilience and purpose.

 

Marian Kaanon, President & CEO of the Stanislaus Community Foundation, shared how philanthropy can create generational impact.

 

Leia Porges, Director of Partnerships Engagement, SinglePoint and co-founder of The Porges Family Foundation, spoke about her journey from uncertainty to business success.

 

Dr. Jas Grewal, award-winning dentist and humanitarian, inspired guests to “walk boldly into rooms they once felt unworthy of.”

 

A’Kia Walker, wellness coach, grounded the conversation in mindfulness and self-care as leadership essentials.

 

Each panelist emphasized that empowerment begins with belief—in oneself, and in the women rising beside us.

 

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The second panel celebrated the men whose leadership and generosity fuel WELL’s vision. Residents of Del Rio, Modesto and partners with Stroll Del Rio magazine, gathered to give insights from their successful careers and partnerships in Modesto, Central Valley California. 

 

Moderated by Victoria Popoff Ardis founder & owner of Studio V Pilates & Fitness and Pilates Brunch Club 

 

Evan Porges, founder of Prime Shine Car Wash, spoke on entrepreneurship and the responsibility of giving back.

 

Brad Ardis, President of Huff Construction, reflected on legacy, teamwork, and investing in people.

 

Supervisor Mani Grewal, hotel owner and civic leader, encouraged attendees to use their success to serve.

 

Together, these “Community Champions” reminded guests that when women rise, our entire community rises with them

WELL extends deep gratitude to The Porges Family Foundation (Evan and Leia Porges), Brad Hawn, Brad and Victoria Ardis, Mani and Jas Grewal, Katy Menges, the Stanislaus Community Foundation, and the many donors whose generosity is expanding WELL’s Mentorship Program to reach more women and moms.