After starting from a social media post last January, Snoqualmie Valley Women in Leadership will celebrate its first anniversary later this month.

North Bend resident Wendy Parslow launched the business networking group in 2023, after reaching out to members of a Facebook group about opportunities for women in leadership positions living in the Snoqualmie Valley to connect.

Fifty women responded to that initial message within 24 hours, the group said. Over the past year, the group says it has connected 200 women across 15 events, including connection gatherings, workshops, book clubs, and new mom meet-ups. Parslow says interest in the group has exceeded expectations and created a community through events sponsored by local businesses and personal donations. Women in the group, she says, represent a range of industries and experience levels.

“We’re so excited about how this group has come together and how we’re applying our strength and specialties to inspire one another and build a much-needed local network of inspirational women,” Parslow said in a statement.

Check it out:

The Connection Gathering & First Anniversary Celebration will be held on Tuesday, Jan. 30 from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Meadowbrook Farm Interpretive Center. Register online at snovalleywomeninleadership.com