Cultivating Our Sisterhood International Association, Inc.

If I had to think of one word that described what COSIA was doing on a domestic and international front, I would have to say "GROWTH". This organization is not just growing in size, but it's growing in HEART. Year after year, the board of directors / volunteers/ and supporters alike are able to bring three distinctions to the table for me: integrity, realness, and an ability to inspire it's members and supporters both personally and professionally. The awesome thing is that this growth is not just for new COSIA affiliates, but for seasoned members like myself. I have been a member since 2009 and an active volunteer since 2012, during this time I have been apart of almost every WA Chapter event. This has aided me in the areas of my finances, health, organizational skills, relationships, spirituality, and creativity. Our consistent programming in the form of email blasts and other marketing initiatives have caused us all to become EXCITED and PARTICIPATORY. On more than one occasion, I have been personally called by President, Mrs. Cassandra Williams, to see how I was doing and how I wanted to participate in "xyz" event. I have learned that with each professional event we are able to plan, that it's not just planned to have a good vent, but to touch and inspire lives. The impact may seem small now, but I will never know how this work will benefit the generations to come. I look forward to seeing the ladies of COSIA grow in all the ways we set out to do! I am especially excited to hear the agenda, plans, and theme for 2015 from the board of directors! Thank you COSIA, you have exceedingly and abundantly surpassed my expectations.

For the past few years, since its inception, COSIA has done its best to serve under-served populations in New York, particularly in the Bronx through the many activities and events that its held: from financial and leadership workshops to community-building projects.

Not only have these activities and events served the under-served but also the privileged members of COSIA through wonderful events, like its Annual Retreat and Conference, which for the past few years has been held in the quiet and lovely Chester, CT.

We, in COSIA, are, likewise, grateful to the donors we have who support these activities and events. Thank you!

My friend speaks so highly of this organization and to see her progress so much mentally, professionally and spirituality thanks to this organization I have also grown to admire the work that they do.

COSIA is an amazing organization of women connecting, inspiring and supporting one another in fulfilling each others goals and uplifting others. This is a great organization to foster female-centered relationships and community involvement. The professionalism of every volunteer, the networking events and the opportunities garnered in the course of networking are outstanding in every way. My very close friend who is a big role model to me introduced me to Cosia and I am looking forward be more involved in future networking events.

Cosia does great good for the community. It focuses on sisterhood and lifting up woman, Inspiring dreams. I feel this is very important as we woman should never falter. I wish to volunteer more this year and even include my daughter as I want her to be humble and kids learn from example.

More organizations like this are needed in the community! Society has trained women that they have no value and that we can not build ourselves or one another. COSIA is a voice of women across the country. I commend any organization that empowers the members/community, because WE HAVE AND HOLD THE POWER IN THIS WORLD!

COSIA is a wonderful organization that brings women together. My friend, who holds a great role in the organization has grew and learned so much within her time of being part of COSIA. It's amazing they have something to culture women and make them be great leaders of tomorrow!

This is a great organization to foster female-centered relationships and community involvement. I have met a great bunch of women who all want to be the best versions of themselves and help their communities be the best they can be as well. This organization has been a great source of support and laughter and I'm grateful that we are in each others' lives. I feel great knowing that what I do can have the smallest of impacts on women and girls in under-served communities.

Cultivating Our Sisterhood International Association is a not-for-profit that is worth the time spent volunteering. The professionalism of every volunteer, the networking events and the opportunities garnered in the course of networking are outstanding in every way. The purpose of the organization, to be of help to and encouragement for women, girls and families, is an achievement and endeavor that is prolific and philanthropic. Giving back to the communities where we live, throughout the world, is the antithesis of the world’s view of life in the 21st century.

In my time spent at COSIA as a writer, managing editor, editor-in-chief and publications director, I have seen the organization continually grow in social media and every endeavor necessary for a not for profit in this day and age to function successfully. The yearly retreats in Connecticut have been a source of growth for the participants due to the creative, enlightening and soul-searching events and activities that are an integral part of the COSIA brand. I look forward to 2015 to see COSIA reach the goals it was designed to achieve and move forward in the pursuit of continued and expected excellence.

I have grown so much during my time with Cosia so far, I can not wait to see what the future holds for me within this terrific organization. you will defiantly grow professionally, mentally and I dare even say spiritually. I love being apart of this amazing group.

I joined COSIA to give back to my community of sisters, who need to hear my story and how I began my journey as a young, black woman from one of the most violent neighborhoods in Tacoma, Washington, and develop into the woman that I am today. This organization has allowed me to tap into skills and abilities that I thought I didn't possess and challenge me to build upon those that I already utilize. It has also allowed me to learn how to build up my social as well as communication skills by learning from others and applying what I am learning.

COSIA has been an organization that fosters growth and development in women across the United States. Members of this organization have realized their dreams and are creating such a positive impact on their communities! For example, Deni Taveras (a long-standing member of COSIA), has realized her dream of becoming a member of the County Council in the state of Maryland in 2014. We are so proud to have had her serve our organization.

Another example is our own Jennifer Hernandez. Jennifer came to COSIA as a participant in our COSIA Women's Leadership Program. She has attended our monthly development seminars and has recently been accepted into board leadership as our Membership & Diversity Committee Chair. We are so proud of her accomplishments and have for the first time in the history of our existence, promoted one of our members to serve on the Board of Directors!

I have personally grown and learned so much about working to foster brilliant women around common goals. I believe I am the leader I am today because of the impact that the members of COSIA have had on me. I look forward to another year of service with COSIA and am excited about our upcoming 10th year anniversary!

I work at the retreat center where COSIA holds their annual retreat. We are always excited to see them come back, because the women in this group bring an energy and spirit that embodies the work that they engage in. That work is an important part of making the world a better place. I know their mission is on a global scale, but they always make our world a better place as soon as they enter our doors and get to work. We love COSIA!
Jim Emswiler
Guest House Retreat Center

My experience with COSIA is still in its growing stages; It has undeniably been a positive force in my life. The Sisters of this organization are a group of outgoing, go-getting, inspiring and uplifting women. I am so proud and grateful I’ve been chosen to become a part of an organization that stands for something as great as COSIA mission.

I admire the work COSIA is doing in the community and the platform they provide for professional women to expand their networks.

I shared my passion for teaching fun, financial empowerment at COSIA. The women in attendance were attentive, open, friendly and wonderful to work with.

It was both a privilege and a pleasure to work with this organization.

Live richer,

The Budgetnista

COSIA does an amazing job at nurturing the needs of women realize their success. It serves a network of woman across the country from various fields and backgrounds. It's a wonderful group!

Love this group! It is completely devoted to helping women and their success. I love the founder, and have been very impressed by the work they have done.

I have volunteered my career development services to the women of COSIA, presenting at a fundraiser and the annual retreat. I have also volunteered and participated in events. I am consistently impressed by the passion and dedication of the COSIA members. The founder is an inspiration and a positive force as well!

I love COSIA! I've been a member of the organization for over five years and I continue to be a member because COSIA's mission to empower women across the nation and beyond is absolutely critical. There is passion here for transformation of women's lives on all levels. In addition there is action: things are being done and not only talked about. It is also a community of grace and support and networking. It's wonderful.

I became a member of COSIA several years ago after receiving an invitation from the founder. COSIA is a powerfully encouraging support network, where the leaders teach by example, point members in the right direction, and courage them to reach their potential. Since joining COSIA, I have published a novel, launched an LLC, and have begun to be recognized with awards. I count my blessings and credit this success largely to advice and encouragement that I have received from COSIA's founder and members throughout the years.

COSIA is a wonderful professional organization. It has afforded me networking opportunities, a sense of belonging, and connection to women throughout the world. I am supported professionally, intellectually, and spiritually. It is a fabulous and much-need organization.

If anyone have the need to feel Empowered, Cosia Non Profit Organization is the best organization i have had the privilege of being a member. Participating in various events have been very fulfilling and educational. Lois and the members offer positive, empowering, effective tools in a very positive context. It allows women to both "nourish their hopes and not their fears". You walk away feeling refreshed.

Wendy W.
COSIA provides support, practical information and inspiration to help women achieve self-defined success in career and life.

Being involved in COSIA has been a positive experience. It is refreshing to see women coming together from all walks of life to support and encourage one another. Often times, we see the media depicting women in a negative light by tearing each other down. COSIA expresses coming together so we can be the best we can, in addition to learning from one another..

COSIA is a remarkable organization. Participating in COSIA events has been an edifying experience for me both socially and intellectually. COSIA is truly focused on cultivating the gifts that women bring to the public arena, and is also a great vehicle for making friends and connections. As an organization COSIA focuses on what we as women have in common, that we are more alike than different, and that we are stronger when we stand together and help bring out the best in one another. I am proud to be affiliated with such a world-class organization and its members.

As a board member I have found my COSIA experience rewarding both professionally and personally. As an organization, COSIA's commitment to the community and to the individual members who participate in the organization exceeds my expectations and the expectations of individuals who participate in COSIA sponsored events. With COSIA you can expect to grow as an individual while at the same time make a commitment to those in need.

COSIA is an amazing organization of women connecting, inspiring and supporting one another in fulfilling each other's goals and uplifting others. As a member of the Board, it is an honor and privilege to serve and provide quality programs and events that support our members and communities. We offer programs that allow one another to learn, share, grow and connect. COSIA is a remarkable organization and each of the women I've come to know have truly become a blessing in my life.

COSIA is a class act organization filled with awesome members and a great board of directors!

My organization loves supporting COSIA's mission to cultivate a sense of sisterhood among women and to enhance the lives of those whom they support.

It's always a pleasant experience to get notes, calls and feedback from their staff, members and graduates of their professional training programs thanking us for sponsoring their event.

As a member - I've have nothing short of outstanding to say about this organization. I've meet great people from all other the United States that I've learned from and continue to connect with because of the awesome retreats that they host annually.

I have visited a COSIA event for the third time now and I have always thoroughly enjoyed the fellowship with the other women. I think it is important for women to support each other. During the meetings, I always experience some sort of enlightenment regarding what I am not doing for the good of my community and fellow human. COSIA helps me understand and inspires me to do more than what I'm already doing. I have invited several women to come along and they too have express the same feelings and they just keep coming back!!

I attended my first COSIA event on Sept. 14th in NYC. I was invited my cousin who's a member and raved about how she enjoyed the events and the people associated with it. Well, I wasn't disappointed. Everyone was welcoming and the atmosphere was warm and positive. The main speaker, Naiobe S., was phenomenal. The subject matter of her presentation was informative and entertaining.

What really "Wow'd" me was an opportunity to have a life coaching session. I volunteered and was at the hands of Roselyn B. The session was invaluable. In less than twenty minutes, she put me on a course to realizing my dream, based on sharing past and current details and circumstances in my life. Needless to say, I joined the organization that day. Kudos to Lois and her wonderful sisterhood!

Cheryl R.

During the 2012 COSIA retreat in Chester, CT, I had the opportunity to witness COSIA in action from two standpoints: that of a photographer and that of a male. As a photographer, I saw a lot of great interaction and women of different ethnicities and backgrounds coming together for fellowship, peace, spiritual grounding, and a renewing of the mind. As a male, it was not a visual experience as much as it was a heartfelt journey of the two days that I was at the retreat acting in the capacity of a photographer. There were amazing women whose strength, experiences, and wisdom could not be captured in still shots, but could only be witnessed and felt in the heart. What I saw through the camera lenses was a group of women working together and supporting each other. What I felt as a man were community and a loving spirit moving throughout the room.

COSIA is a beautiful testimony to the progress that can be made when resources are pooled and differences embraced. In a proactive, well-organized, yet sensitive way, it has enabled members to experience the power of cooperation and mutual respect.

I am Founder and CEO of Things of My very Own, Inc., a non-profit corporation that provides crisis intervention services and ongoing programs, to children that have experienced extensive abuse and/or neglect, and those in at-risk situations. In the past two months, the members and board members of COSIA, have played a significant part in both our marketing and outreach services, allowing us to reach out to undeserved populations as well as greatly needed donors. In a time when private donations and grants have been at an all time low, COSIA has been instrumental, in allowing us to continue our mission, by supporting us and the families that we serve in times of crisis.

Doesn’t matter what’s your background or race, COSIA a non profit organization that help bring women together. I like being with the organization because I can express myself without criticism. I am also glad to be a volunteer photographer.

COSIA has inspired me to turn my craft of making jewelery and knitting into a business. I became a member of the 2012-2013 COSIA Love by the Slice Women's Leadership Program several months ago. I attend the annual retreat at Chester, CT. It was a wonderful experience to work with a diverse group of professional women. The featured guest speaker Luz Flores Lee, Life and Leadership Coach, provided tools to balance my life with time management, prioritizing, setting goals, accomplishments and multitasking. I returned home with clarity; I know where am headed. I am working on balancing my work schedule to keep going. I am focused and looking forward to the opportunity to work with Luz Flores Lee as my life coach to gain training and tools that will challenge me and give me the mindset to build my business. I am rejuvenated, inspired and connected to a sisterhood that supports me. My experience has lead me to recommended a friend to become a member.

COSIA is a great organization that brings together a diverse group of women, and provides them with networking, career development, and social outing opportunities. It has had a positive impact on my life. I would recommend it.

Being connected with COSIA was one of the best things that could have happened to me. I was able to be a speaker at their Retreat this year and the quality of women which were all members of the organization left a powerful impact on my life. I love the organization and highly recommend them as top choice for women seeking an support.

COSIA is an amazing organization to be involved with. The efforts and products they put forth to connect, enrich and empower women across the world are unbelievable. Our most recent involvement with this organization was quite fulfilling. My Texas based Company supported their Annual Retreat Program this year and received feedback that our donation was used to help a handful of Women attend the retreat. They took the time to personally call and thank my company for contributing to their annual flagship program. It was such a delight to be informed that our donation helped to expand the social network, aid in the professional development and personal growth for some of the attendees in their leadership program in the NYC area. Best feeling in the world when someone takes your small seed and is able to cultivate it into lives of many. Thanks COSIA for being Great Non-Profit to work with.

I first heard about COSIA through another nonprofit that connects unemployed or underemployed young adults with Fortune 500 employers. I had always been intrigued about doing a women's retreat, so I signed up with the expectation that I would grow professionally and expand my network. What I did NOT expect was an abundance of personal growth; emotionally and spiritually this retreat was like a breath of fresh air. I learned so much more about myself, was empowered and humbled by the caliber of women around me, and inspired to take my life to the next level. I highly recommend this this experience and involvement in COSIA to any woman looking to join a sisterhood of dynamic, strong, and successful leaders- you will definetley not regret it.

I joined COSIA several months ago, when I was asked to present a workshop at the annual retreat which just occurred in July. I was able to attend one day of the two day retreat and at that time I met an inspiring group of women and was provided with a context and opportunities to connect, to share and to grow in meaningful ways. In presenting my workshop I was able to discuss race and gender (and specifically racism and sexism) in the workplace with group of participants who were incredibly open and shared diverse, meaningful perspectives and personal experiences. As a participant myself in the remainder of the day, I was challenged in a number of ways that I found growth enhancing. I also had further opportunities to interact with the women who attended the retreat and I continue to feel the positive energy that they emanated with their warmth, intellect, humor, and their commitment to social justice and personal growth and development. COSIA's founder, Lois Reddick is especially inspiring to me. Her vision in forming and growing COSIA and her unwavering passion for and commitment to bringing together a diverse group of women who are able to cultivate a sense of genuine sisterhood is inspiring. I am blessed to a member of this organization and look forward to future interactions with sister members.

I have been a member of COSIA for about two years. As a member of COSIA, I have met a diverse group of dynamic women. The book club and the annual treat are always a joy and pleasure. I look forward to working with COSIA in the future as it continues to blossom.

COSIA for me serves as a powerful means of understanding emotional, social and technological complexity. The founder is a personal friend and someone who inspires me through her great maturity, endless patience, tolerance of other points of view, and a deep knowledge of human nature. She intuitively knows the strengths of those around her, and gently cultivates them. By remaining calm and relaxed in all situations, and making artful use of diplomacy or a quiet word to resolve conflicts, I have learned by example. She has the ability to listen to what another person is saying, and truly understand what is in their heart, and therefore is a beloved leader of a rewarding organization cutting through confusion and indecision, and setting things in motion.

COSIA offers a place to practice and display one's creativity and offers opportunities for travel, for meeting others, while promoting both business and spiritual growth in members and benefactors. It helps people such as myself to make more rapid progress towards goals by inspiring decisive action and a positive loving attitude. I find that communicating with other members helps one overcome inner conflict. Working with people I can trust who share a common goal also reduces delays in transactions and helps in making progress towards personal as well as professional goals.

COSIA provides a setting for developing one's full potential in a safe and realistic environment. It has been helping me to come to grips with progress, especially in terms of ever-new technology that overwhelms, especially us older folks. I have found a sense of identity that is not found in material possessions. It has encouraged me to let go of a lot of things while at the same time allowing me the space to be myself, to find my own path without feeling alone or isolated. By joining COSIA I have gained in emotional maturity (I hope) and friends. My thoughts have been clarified through the exploration of possibilities, through discussion, through seeing the examples of others and through direct action. I have been gently induced to get out of my comfort zone in order to reach out to new people, to bigger possibilities and to travel a bit in the process.

One of the best decision that I have made was to become a member of COSIA. As a member, I interact with a group of diverse women and learn a lot from them. One of the most enjoyable and informative activity is the book club. We meet a minimum of four times a year to discuss the selected books. These discussions are thought provoking and insightful.

I've been part of COSIA from the beginning. I served a term on the board and was editor of the newsletter.
What I love most about COSIA is the opportunity to meet and get to know great women, and be inspired by their stories. Craft nights, book discussions, professional seminars, fundraisers for organizations that support women and youth - all our events bring women together to create community and positive change in the world.

I enjoy being a member and contributor to this organization. Each year I'm enriched by the various programs and professional development events hosted by COSIA. Living in Texas has not been a barrier in taking full advantage to all that this organization has to offer. I am able to be instrumental in providing guidance to the organization in a board member capacity by taking full advantage of all latest cutting edge technology and it's well organized business systems.

I attended the 2010 "Cultivating Dreams" Women's Conference in Seattle. It was one of the best retreats I've attended. My greatest takeaway was learning how to create & utilize a vision board in my personal and professional development. Equally important, I was able to discover a different part of the United States. Visiting Seattle was most enjoyable.

COSIA is a great organization to be involved with as a recipient of great programming, a volunteer and a board member. It is growing organization and constantly finding ways to improve and provide value.

I first learned of COSIA and the organization's mission when its founder, Lois, sought to honor another organization for which I served as a board member. I was immediately drawn to Lois' positive spirit and professional work ethic. It is no wonder that COSIA is a sharp, no-nonsense yet humble organization. I have never attended an event where the majority of the feedback was not positive! I am appreciative of COSIA's mission and I am delighted to work as a volunteer!

It has been an honor to be involved with COSIA as a donor, volunteer, and member. There are many organizations to join, but my values of social justice and living a meaningful life have aligned well with COSIA. I have gained many new perspectives, friends, and inspiration by being a part of this wonderful community of women. The words 'cultivate' and 'sisterhood' truly embodies the organization's work.

I recently was featured in an interview in the COSIAnet newsletter. It was such a fantastic experience. The editors made it simple to respond to their interest in my story as well as elaborate on it if I felt it necessary. It was encouraging to know they were interested in me as a whole person and not just for one piece of my life. I love what COSIA stands for in empowering women to develop their callings and gifts not only for their own significance but to empower and develop the communities they live in.

I have been involved with COSIA in some capacity since its early days. It actually came into my space when I really needed some extra sisterly support. The diversity and openness of the members is very interesting and refreshing. The programs have consistently been informative , fun and inspiring...from our annual retreats to volunteering at the soup kitchen. I have met a great set of close friends and each event enhances our network of resources. The vision Lois was blessed with years ago has trully flourished via her dedication to helping others. COSIA is a wonderful organization and support system.

I recently joined COSIA. Condoleezza Rice’s memoir was the book we discussed. If it were not for COSIA I would have never read the book because of my disapproval of the previous administration. However, I was so grateful that COSIA widened my horizon in a book selection and life perspectives. I shared my ultimate dream of writing an article with the founder and president of COSIA. To my great amazement, she connected me with other people and provided me with a specific action plan. I am excited with the first step I have undertaken towards achieving my dream.

Cosia has a professional appeal and works really well with its mission. Profiles, seminars, and retreats to cater to their members. Would definitely encourage more people to get involve and make it an even more effective in policy, mentoring and collaboration.

I have been with COSIA since its inception; from a seed of an idea to a growth of an organization it has been an amazing journey. Not only have I helped COSIA- it has helped me. I started out volunteering at many of the networking events that COSIA hosted thinking that anyway I could help I would. One day Lois asked me to help with the publications effort and be a part of the newsletter. I was a little reluctant, but my reluctance soon gave way to a passion for writing. I have learned a lot from the experience. I plan to be a part of COSIA in any way I can for years to come!

I attended an auction fundraiser in New York City. The members of COSIA I encountered were friendly, helpful, and knowledgable about the organization and its mission and goals. Ms Reddick, Cosia's leadership was very sincere and visibly excited to be able to help others with the money raised. There follow-up with me was engaging and consisent.

Almost ten years ago, I witnessed the beginning of COSIA and Ms Reddick's academic work that resulted in this organization. Although I no longer live in NY, I am delighted to see how the organization has grown and has made a huge impact on people's lives. As each of us toil away in our various disciplines, COSIA serves to refresh our memories and our hearts to use our experience to empower and strengthen others. Many volunteers ultimately feel as blessed for the experience as those in need.

As a man, I've always been impressed at how Ms. Reddick and company have grown and expanded COSIA; how she incorporates all shapes, sizes, colors & creeds into COSIA's fold. That includes men. And being that some of the board members are friends of mine, I wanted to be more constructive with my involvement. I was offered an opportunity to co-write a gender-oriented column with one of the board members. We've done 4 issues now and it's been enlightening and worthwhile.

COSIA was introduced to our students at the Co-op City Campus of the Schoool of New Resources (SNR) of The College of New Rochelle. The panel of educators discussed the career changes they had after having attended college for a specific field. SNR is an adult degree program with many women who are returning to college, many older than 30. Hearing from women who after the tradional age of education going back to school or doing something diffent madea dramatic career change to higher education was enlightening. Lois Reddick the founder is an alum of mine from Aquinas High School in the Bronx. The courage of these women to venture into uncharted waters of employment, entrepreneurship, and volunteerism is encouraging to other women to do the same. This group has changed my perspective to know that there are women who will help you achieve your dreams without wanting anything in reture, except you do the same for someone else. This is a wonderful group to which I belong.

Joining COSIA Joining COSIA was a catalyst to my second career. As a former corporate project manager and small business owner I devoted a season in my life to staying home with my children. COSIA’s annual girl friend get-away was always a highlight of my year. I had the opportunity to connect, network, laugh, learn and play with so many diverse, experienced and inspiring ladies. So one day I was asked to join. I said yes, but was nervous. After all, my day consisted of feeding, changing diapers and playing peek-a-boo. What could I possibly have to offer? Well I gave it my best shot! With the nurturing help, inspiration and over all good will of the organization and its members I quickly got back in the “game” per se. Being involved with COSIA has afforded me the opportunity and courage to start my consulting and investing career. Notwithstanding, connect with some dynamic women and support great local and global causes that support women and children initiatives. Fast forward three years, I am a member, board member, vice-president and enjoy an active role in helping recruiting board members.

COSIA is a great organization which offers many opportunities to get involved, meet new people with common interests and help your community in the process.

Cultivating Our Sisterhood International Association, Inc. is an excellent organization that gets people involved. I had the opportunity to go to one of their events last year and I had a wonderful time. Lois Reddick is an amazing leader. She gets people involved and that what I love about her. I learned so much about being a better organizer through her and her leadership. She is now getting more involved with Social Media, and Mentoring. These two things are so important to get the word out about events and jobs opportunity for people that needs help right now. I highly recommend this organization.

COSIA is an extraordinary resource and organization, its members are proactive in there outreach to the community. The members of COSIA have assisted in holiday gift wrapping events on behalf of at-risk youth the organization has also raised funds to aid in providing the youth with emergency needs. Most recently COSIA was instrumental in developing a resource pool of potential mentors for which we are extremely grateful. COSIA has been a life line to both the organization and the youth participants of In the Spirit of the Children, the partnership that has been forged is greatly cherished.

I have been with COSIA since its inception. What I love about being part of this group of women is that it is a safe space for me to grow professionally and personally. COSIA has helped me to define my goals and has supported emotionally me through my ups and downs when I was both working and unemployed. I also had my organization, the Afterw@rd, teamed up with COSIA for three years to co-sponsor a walk-a-thon that raised $10,000 for suicide prevention. This is an organization that supports you in small concrete ways in accomplishing your goals. All you need do is speak truth to power.