Kathy Brough, our beloved founding mother, was recently honored in a Lowell Sun article for her lifelong dedication and activism to women’s empowerment. Over her 79 years, Kathy was renowned for her advocacy and for co-founding Budget Buddies, now Women’s Money Matters. Following her passing on July 8, many who knew her shared their memories and tributes.
WMM Executive Director Danielle Piskadlo reflects, “I feel immensely privileged to have known Kathy and to have received her guidance, friendship, and support over the years. Budget Buddies was born in Kathy’s living room, where she frequently welcomed me for lunch. Each visit always felt like coming home.”
Kathy co-founded Budget Buddies with Anita Saville, recognizing a critical need for financial education and support for women with low incomes. Together, they crafted the vision and model we continue today for women and girls living on low incomes to learn key money management skills through a combination of financial workshops, individual mentoring, and a supportive community.
Anita Saville shared, “Kathy leaves behind an enormous network of folks to whom she was a great friend, mentor, or both. She was committed to bettering the lives of those around her over many decades and in many ways. I am grateful every day for the wisdom and support she provided.”
We extend our deepest gratitude to the Lowell Sun for such a beautiful tribute.As we honor Kathy’s remarkable legacy, we are dedicated to advancing the mission she so passionately championed. In her memory, we are proud to establish the Kathy Brough EmpowHERment Fund. This emergency fund, close to Kathy’s heart, will provide vital support to women and girls in the Women’s Money Matters programs facing unexpected expenses or sudden loss of income. If you would like to contribute to this fund, you can do so here:
Read more about Kathy’s impact in the Lowell Sun article here:
