The Fund for Women and Girls honors the life and legacy of one of our early and faithful supporters, Claire Birney, who passed away on May 13, 2020.

Over the years, Claire remained a thoughtful and devoted supporter of our work, starting in the earliest days of The Fund. With her daughter, Annie Rose, on her lap at meetings, Claire served on the original Advisory Board when The Fund began in 1996 — before there was even a Board. Claire also went on to serve as Public Relations Committee Co-Chair for three years, and a member of our Development Committee for seven years.

“What I remember most about Claire was her ability to get motivated and get things done. All of her roles, both volunteer and professional, demonstrated care for the well-being of others… I am thankful to Claire for introducing me to The Fund and I know that she will be missed by all whose lives she touched.” -Pattie Diggin, Current Board Member and Development Committee Chair

“Claire was a force and will be sorely missed by all who knew her.” -Barbara Jordan, The Fund Founding Member

“With her calm and thoughtful nature, Claire was supportive in a very real way and cared deeply for her family, her community and her own professional fundraising standards.” -Heidi McPherson, First Executive Director of The Fund

We are so grateful for Claire’s legacy as an engaged and vocal advocate for our vision, mission and shared goals to improve the lives of women, girls and families in Chester County. She will be greatly missed.

Click to read more about Claire’s life and legacy.