 Over 150 women put on their flower hats and enjoyed an afternoon cup of tea for the annual Bridges of Hope fundraiser. Sarah Winkerman was at Madden's resort for the event and she has more. It's tea time and that means time to celebrate women in the Brainerd Lakes. Energy of connecting and just a real kind of positive vibe. As colorful, flowery and downright unique hats filled the room. I actually have a hat collection and I love all things to do with tea and hats and Victorian times. Attendees enjoyed a variety of sweets treats and of course tea. Something to do together as girlfriends. With hot water served by members of the Brainerd Fire Department. Just a fun way for grandmas and moms and daughters and just to get together. And as for the younger crowd, it was their first time trying some tea. I don't think I really like tea. About 160 people gathered for afternoon tea. All for a cause far bigger than just a cup of tea. The side-by-side program matches women in the community to women who are struggling to leave poverty and really just need support and relationships to do that. With over $15,000 raised at the event, the side-by-side program is funded for the rest of the year. I love the support that we can give each other and encourage and love on each other and really we need each other. In a program that benefits both the mentor and the mentee. Finally I can be around women who understand who comprehend what I've been going through, who can support me and give me that encouragement that I can keep going. And with a record-setting fundraising amount, the side-by-side program will continue to impact the Brainerd Lakes area. Bridges of Hope is doing great work in the community and I really believe in what they're doing and it's needed and if I could be a small part of what they're doing then I'm honored. For this week's community spotlight in Brainerd, Sarah Winkelman, Lakeland News. This was the fourth annual afternoon, Tea for Hope. If you enjoyed this segment of Lakeland News, please consider making a tax-deductible contribution to Lakeland PBS.