Many of my most treasured relationships are the ones I have made at the West Valley Women Networking Association. The organization is in its 19th year of fostering business connections, networking opportunities and friendships for women in the community. As the owner and Chief Connections Officer, I am proud of our members’ contribution to the West Valley Community. Under our coaching umbrella, I help sensitive introverted professionals connect with confidence. Come join us. West Valley Women, where one can experience the Art of Networking. We make networking fun!

Joanne has worked in the non profit sector for over twenty five years, with a break in between, working for large (and small) businesses for several years, as well. She obtained her bachelor’s degree in Child Development & Family Relations from Illinois State University, has 2 children and 4 grandchildren. Originally from the Chicago area, Joanne re-located to Phoenix in 2004, being the first telecommuter of her company, at that time.

After volunteering for Helping Hands for Single Moms, in 2005 and 2006, she asked for a position with the organization (which was a staff of ONE, at that time). She worked there for almost 8 years as Program Director and Interim Exec. Dir, until 2015.

After working for other non-profits for 6 years, doing Volunteer Coordination and Community Outreach, she was lured back into a newly created position of Business Development Director at Helping Hands for Single Moms ~ a place that has always held an important place in her heart. She works closely with the Exec Dir of this 20 yr (and going strong) organization, bringing awareness to the community for the support needed by low-income single mom families while the mom attains her college degree. Having been a single mom herself, she has a passion to encourage this special group of hard-working moms to achieve success through continuing education, and enjoys being behind the scenes of offering a helping hand to others.

Michele King Bruen is the Founder of IvaMichele, Im.fit, and President of Straightline Publishing. IvaMichele inspires and motivates women athletes. They offer Tri & Yoga apparel, fun Swim/Bike/Run shirts and accessories, and triathlon training tips on their blog.

StraightLine Publishing, a woman-owned editorial services business in Goodyear. Michele specializes in proofreading and editing for various documents and webpages, graphic design for logos and marketing materials, and mobile notary services for the West Valley.