Who We Are

The Helping Afghan Women Project was inspired when Barbara Spier, HAWP President and owner of a company in Afghanistan, discussed the tremendous needs of widows and orphans in that country during a presentation to women business owners. Heida Thurlow, current Vice President and past President of HAWP, was a member of the audience who had been touched by the kindness of Americans as a child growing up in war-torn Germany and wanted to help Barbara make a difference. They were joined by Lindmuth “Lynn” Fuller, Treasurer and Patricia “Trish” Barry Rumble, and in 2004, this far-reaching journey began. In December 2008, HAWP was awarded NGO status by the Government of Afghanistan, one of only two companies approved from 34 applicants. The dynamic group of women volunteers who serve today consider it an honor and a privilege to help their Afghan “sisters” in need. The HAWP Board continues to strengthen and grow and currently includes:

Oranoos Raza Haidari – HAWP Country Manager in Afghanistan, who is instrumental in our efforts to assist Afghan women and children in need.

Officers and Year Joined Board

Barbara Spier – President, 2004
Heida Thurlow – Vice President, 2004
Lindmuth Fuller – Secretary and Operations Manager, 2004
Tracey Brundrett – Treasurer, 2006

Board Members:

Julia Bailey – Legal, 2006
Suhaila Dostyar – Afghan Liaison & Packaging, 2005
Beverly McKenna, 2006
Najie S. Rives, 2006
Connie Smith – Printing & Photography, 2008
Toni R. Spigelmyer – Public Relations, 2009