Profile: The Link For Women

Founded in March, 2004 in Portland, OR., The Link For Women, LLC (The Link) is a Northwest-based, affiliate organization that connects and mentors women from many walks of life. The Link’s mission: to provide consulting, coaching, multi-day programs and monthly events that help women reach their full potential.  As defined by the CEO and founder, Cindy Tortorici, the following issues run true for women in their personal and professional experiences: Women want to connect with other stimulating women who provide insights through the successes and roadblocks of their lives. There is no equivalent to the “Old Boys” network for women. Women crave mentorship and a network of peers. It is difficult to search for experts to acquire information for seamless change, knowledge and personal growth.  In a safe, supportive atmosphere, women are more likely to investigate new ideas and topics. There are fantastic women in the Northwest who deserve to be spotlighted as role models. The Link was created as a response to these issues and ideas. The Link provides an opportunity to connect with remarkable women and talented experts who want to share their experiences and knowledge. It offers programs that encourage creativity and curiosity, and teach real-life skills. The Link connects its members with a community of women who can provide support and resources for both career and personal growth. Companies and individuals benefit from customized consulting, coaching and multi-day programs by a team of experts in their field, all with the same mission: to support women to identify and reach their goals. Clients have included Fortune 500 companies, professional firms (law firms, CPA firms), and Senior Managers working to flourish in their "Seat at the Table'. The monthly events draw speakers like former Hewlett-Packard CEO, Carly Fiorina; Oxygen Media Chairman and CEO, Geraldine Laybourne; career strategist, Carol Hyatt and Portland General Electric CEO, Peggy Fowler, to name a few. More than 250 women executives, leaders, visionaries and citizens pay annual dues and monthly event fees to gain access to The Link’s network. In 2006, The Link expanded its network from the Portland, Oregon base to Seattle to create a strong synergy throughout the Northwest of accomplished women.  The Link is a way to celebrate what we’ve achieved in life, and where we’re going. In an article in Town and Country magazine (January, 2004), author Anne Taylor Fleming captured this sentiment perfectly: “There’s a definite, if unstated, celebratory thrill to our camaraderie, a shared sense of the sweetness of the moment and the dues paid to get here.”