By Dawn Scotland
Special to The Truth
N-Sync LLC in partnership with Savvy Seniors hosted Getting Your Affairs in Order: For Women, by Women on Wednesday, August 20 at the Fire Pit Grill. The event, which assists the community in estate planning, held the first of its events exclusively for women.
Alexis Means of 13abc News led the evening as the mistress of ceremonies. The night featured knowledge on a wide range of topics pertaining to end-of-life needs from insurance policies to funeral expenses.
Deborah Barnett, organizer of the event, stated that 80 women registered. This is the sixth event that has been held since its inception in 2024. Barnett said the reception has been overwhelming positive. The event, as are all of the GYAO events, was free to the public.
GYAO: For Women by Women featured all women speakers and an all women audience. The invocation was given by Rev. Barbie Harrison. Clara Petty, leader of Savvy Seniors, provided the welcome and Deborah Barnett of N-Sync, LLC spoke about the purpose of the event.
Presentations were made by Rev. Barbie Harrison, attorney Charlon Dewberry, State Farm Agent Sara Ross, Nichole Rodriguez of Fifth Third Bank, Anita Madison of Legal Sheild, Danielle L. Thomas of House of Day and Sue Rowe, Congressional Aide to Marcy Kaptur, who spoke about Medicare and Medicaid. Attendees received resources and knowledge that they could take with them as they plan for the future.
“I thought it was a great opportunity to bring together women in a space where they felt comfortable in talking about getting your affairs in order. Many times they say we are the leaders of the family in getting things done. I wanted women to feel comfortable in asking [these questions],” stated Barnett.
“I think that tonight was a success in terms of women coming together, receiving information that they can take back and make decisions on life changing situations that we all will in some way encounter,” she concluded.
Throughout the night attendees stated how imperative the conversation and resources provided at GYAO are to our community.
On Facebook, attendee Katina Johnson remarked, “Getting your affairs in order starts with having the tough, uncomfortable but much needed conversations about to your life before and after it ends. The person you thought would help you might just be waiting on the right time to help themselves to YOUR hard earned money/assets. Prepare your final wishes and have documents reviewed annually… things change, update POAs, beneficiaries and Transfer Upon Death. Utilize a trusted attorney who specializes and be transparent so everyone knows who is responsible for taking care of your affairs when you cannot.” She concluded, “Great workshop, ladies, can’t wait for the next one! In the meantime we’ve got homework.”
Following the presentations guests engaged in break-out questions and answers by presenters. They also enjoyed food and refreshments.
The committee for GYAO: For Women by Women included Deborah Barnett, Rev. Barbie Hariston, Celeste Day and Gwen Wise.
The next GYAO event will be held Saturday, October 18, AW Local 12 Union Hall 2300 Ashland Ave and will be for both men and women. The event is free and food will be provided.
